Compliance Manager

Guernsey, Channel Islands
Full-time

About AFR Advocates & AFR Trustees (Guernsey) Limited

(“AFR Advocates is a Guernsey-based law firm providing high-quality legal advice to corporate and private clients. AFR Trustees (Guernsey) Limited provides fiduciary and trust services. Together, the businesses offer integrated legal and fiduciary solutions underpinned by professional excellence and a strong compliance culture.”)

Job Overview:

We are seeking a dedicated Compliance Manager to support the risk and regulatory framework of our combined law firm and trust services business. The role involves ensuring compliance with:

  • Fiduciary rules

  • The Handbook on Countering Financial Crime (AML/CFT/CPF)

  • Regulatory obligations applicable to legal practices in Guernsey

The Compliance Manager will work closely with Partners, fee earners, and the Compliance Officer to:

  • Promote a strong compliance culture

  • Safeguard the business from regulatory, financial crime, and reputational risks

  • Support the development and maintenance of internal controls and governance frameworks

Job Description:

Regulatory Compliance

  • Ensure the business complies with GFSC fiduciary licence requirements and applicable Codes of Practice.

  • Monitor changes to legislation and regulations affecting both legal and fiduciary sectors.

  • Maintain and update compliance policies, procedures, and internal controls across all service lines.

  • Assist with regulatory notifications, reporting, licence obligations, and periodic returns.

AML/CFT & Financial Crime Prevention

  • Review and approve client onboarding, including KYC/CDD for legal and trust clients.

  • Conduct ongoing monitoring, including screening, periodic reviews, and risk assessments.

  • Identify and escalate suspicious activity, assisting the MLRO with SARs where required.

  • Provide AML/CFT/CPF guidance and training to fee earners and support staff.

Compliance Monitoring & Risk Management

  • Perform compliance monitoring reviews and maintain the Compliance Monitoring Programme (CMP).

  • Track findings, recommend remedial actions, and support implementation of corrective measures.

  • Assist with internal audits, GFSC examinations, and external review processes.

  • Maintain risk registers and provide risk reporting to senior management and Partners.

Client, Matter & Trust Compliance

  • Conduct conflict checks, matter risk assessments, and review engagement documentation for legal matters.

  • Ensure all files meet regulatory and internal standards, including confidentiality, client care, and professional conduct obligations.

  • Oversee CDD and risk assessments across legal and trust services.

  • Review client transactions, distributions, and corporate activities for compliance with regulatory requirements and internal policies.

  • Liaise with clients and third parties regarding compliance and regulatory enquiries.

  • Prepare board packs and supporting documentation for meetings, ensuring accuracy and compliance.

Governance & Reporting

  • Prepare compliance reports for Partners, the Board, and senior management.

  • Support governance meetings, risk committees, and thematic reviews.

  • Contribute to the enhancement of overall governance and risk control frameworks.

Job Requirements:

Professional and Technical Experience

  • Proven track record in regulatory compliance within fiduciary businesses, financial services and previous experience within a law firm derisible but not essential.

  • Detailed knowledge of the Guernsey regulatory landscape, including legislation, codes, and GFSC guidance, as well as industry best practice.

  • Ability to interpret and apply regulations to complex client and corporate structures.

  • Strong report writing, analytical, and organisational skills.

  • Computer literate with experience managing and extracting data from compliance systems, with a good knowledge of Microsoft 365.

Personal Attributes

  • Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, able to liaise effectively with all levels of staff, clients, and regulators.

  • Ability to build and develop strong working relationships.

  • Self-motivated, disciplined, and proactive.

  • Committed to continuous improvement and development of compliance processes.

Academic and Professional Qualifications

  • Established background at a senior level in financial services regulation or compliance.

  • Relevant professional qualifications are desirable (e.g., ICA, CISI, or equivalent AML/Compliance qualifications, or willingness to study).

To apply, please send a covering email or letter and CV to Robert Breckon (rbreckon@afr.law).

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