Anti-Money Laundering

If you’ve got an analytical mind and a strong sense of integrity, Anti-Money Laundering (AML) jobs offer a challenging and rewarding career path within Scotland’s fast-paced accountancy and finance sector.

At Stafffinders, we specialise in connecting skilled compliance professionals and ambitious newcomers with trusted employers, helping you find a role that perfectly suits your experience and career aspirations.

Anti-Money Laundering professionals play a crucial role in protecting financial institutions and their clients from fraud, financial crime, and regulatory breaches. From conducting investigations and reviewing transactions to developing robust compliance processes, AML specialists help ensure that organisations operate with transparency, accuracy, and full legal compliance.

What Does an Anti-Money Laundering Professional Do?

Those working in AML are responsible for identifying, assessing, and preventing illegal financial activity within an organisation. This often involves analysing customer data, investigating suspicious transactions, and working closely with regulatory authorities to ensure all activity complies with UK and international laws. Typical duties in an Anti-Money Laundering role include:

• Monitoring financial transactions to detect and report unusual activity.

• Conducting due diligence checks on new and existing clients.

• Reviewing customer documentation in line with Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures.

• Preparing reports for internal use or external regulators.

• Investigating flagged accounts and escalating potential issues when necessary.

• Developing and maintaining company compliance policies and procedures.

• Supporting wider risk and audit teams to ensure company-wide compliance.

AML professionals often collaborate closely with Compliance Officers, Risk Analysts, and Financial Crime Investigators to maintain high standards of regulatory adherence and protect company reputation.

Skills and Qualities for AML Jobs

A successful career in AML requires sharp analytical skills, strong attention to detail, and a deep understanding of financial regulations. Employers look for individuals who can think critically, manage sensitive information responsibly, and remain composed in high-stakes environments.

Key skills and attributes include:

• Strong knowledge of anti-money laundering regulations and compliance frameworks.

• Excellent analytical and investigative skills.

• High attention to detail and accuracy when handling financial data.

• Proficiency in compliance software and data analysis tools.

• Effective communication and report-writing skills.

• Integrity, discretion, and sound judgment.

• The ability to work independently and as part of a wider compliance team.

While previous experience in compliance, risk, or financial services is often preferred, many employers also welcome candidates with strong analytical or accountancy backgrounds who are keen to specialise in AML through on-the-job training.

Training and Career Progression

A career in Anti-Money Laundering offers excellent long-term prospects within finance, banking, and professional services. Many professionals begin their journey in entry-level compliance or KYC roles, before progressing into more senior and strategic positions.

As you gain experience and professional certifications, you could advance into roles such as:

• Senior AML Analyst

• Compliance Officer

• Financial Crime Investigator

• Head of Compliance

• Risk or Regulatory Manager

Qualifications such as the ICA Certificate in Anti-Money Laundering or CAMS (Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist) can further enhance your career and credibility in the field. As financial regulations continue to evolve, staying up to date with new legislation and best practices will be key to long-term success.

Safeguard the future of financial integrity, explore Anti-Money Laundering jobs with Stafffinders today.