Interim Head of Branch

The Company is seeking a Head of Branch in Portugal who will also serve as the local MLRO and lead MLROs and Deputy MLROs across its European branches. The role involves representing the organization before Portuguese authorities, establishing the local AML framework, and adapting group policies to Portuguese requirements. Responsibilities include overseeing customer due diligence and transaction monitoring policies, defining regulatory and suspicious activity reporting processes, advising on complex cases, and delivering AML training. The successful candidate will also set shared standards across countries, coach and develop the MLRO team, coordinate regulatory inspections and remediation, and report key risk indicators to senior governance bodies. Candidates must have the right to work in Portugal and be native Portuguese speakers. They should have at least four years of second-line compliance experience at a regulated payment, e-money, or banking institution, including at least two years as an MLRO or Deputy MLRO for Portuguese branches, plus two years of people management experience. Strong knowledge of Portuguese AML legislation and the EU AML, sanctions, and risk management framework is required, along with direct experience engaging with regulators. A proactive, analytical approach and the ability to build processes, lead across countries, and communicate practical guidance are essential; experience with data analytics, databases, or AI tools is an advantage.