Director of Compliance and Risk (UK)

BJAK is looking for a UK-based Director of Compliance and Risk to lead its regulatory and risk work as it expands in the UK. The role involves building compliance policies, controls, and governance from the ground up, supporting FCA engagement, and overseeing areas such as AML, KYC, data privacy, consumer duty, and related compliance activity. It also requires carrying out risk assessments, putting fixes in place, and setting up ongoing monitoring, testing, and reporting. This position suits someone with experience in UK financial services regulation who can help shape a new compliance function in a fast-growing digital business.

About BJAK BJAK is Southeast Asia’s largest digital insurance platform, expanding financial access through automation, data, and digital scale. As we grow across markets, we are committed to building a platform that is safe, compliant, and trusted. We are hiring a Director of Compliance and Risk (UK) to lead regulatory strategy, risk governance, and compliance operations for our UK market entry and expansion alongside the CEO. This role is expected to hold the SMF16 (Compliance Oversight) Senior Management Function once approved, and will act as our primary point of contact with the FCA. This is a build role: you'll be creating frameworks, policies, and controls from scratch rather than inheriting an existing function. Why This Role Matters The Director of Compliance and Risk (UK) will: - Design and enforce compliance frameworks that enable safe scaling of digital financial services. - Ensure BJAK operates in accordance with UK regulatory standards, especially FCA requirements. - Protect consumers through transparent, fair, and ethical practices. - Establish BJAK as a trusted partner with regulators, partners, and industry stakeholders. - Build compliance capability and culture across the company. What You Will Do Regulatory Leadership & Strategy - Develop and maintain compliance frameworks aligned with UK regulatory requirements. - Lead regulatory readiness for market entry, licensing, and ongoing supervision. - Serve as the primary contact with the FCA and relevant UK bodies. - Interpret regulatory changes and guide business strategy accordingly. Risk Governance & Compliance Operations - Build policies and controls covering AML, KYC, data privacy, consumer duty, distribution, and claims-related compliance. - Conduct risk assessments and implement remediation plans for identified gaps. - Establish monitoring, testing, and reporting processes for ongoing compliance. - Ensure internal audits, compliance reviews, and control testing are operationalised. Consumer Protection & Business Integrity - Embed fairness, transparency, and responsible selling throughout the organisation. - Oversee product compliance, marketing reviews, pricing governance, and distribution oversight. - Implement complaint handling frameworks aligned with regulatory standards. Cross-Functional Support & Training - Partner with product, operations, legal, marketing, and commercial teams to ensure compliant execution. - Provide guidance on regulatory implications of new products, partnerships, or distribution models. - Deliver training to ensure teams understand and execute compliance responsibilities. You Will Thrive in This Role If You - See compliance as a strategic enabler, not a blocker. - Operate with high integrity, sound judgment, and strong attention to detail. - Communicate clearly and influence leaders using data and logic. - Enjoy building frameworks and scaling systems from early-stage to mature environments. - Thrive in fast-paced, evolving settings where regulation meets innovation. What You Bring - 8+ years of compliance, risk, or regulatory experience within financial services, insurance, insurtech, or fintech. - Deep understanding of UK regulatory frameworks, including FCA rules and consumer duty requirements. - Experience in compliance for digital platforms, distribution, or insurance products (preferred). - Proven ability to design policies, conduct risk assessments, and manage complex compliance programs. - Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, including dealing with regulators. Bonus (Nice to Have) - Experience in start-up or high-growth environments. - Previous SMF experience. - Background in insurtech, digital distribution, or online marketplaces. - Knowledge of GDPR, AML, sanctions, or cross-border compliance. Location Requirement - This role is based in the UK. This is a hybrid role. You are expected to work from our London office at least 3 days per week. Why Join Us - Shape compliance for a fast-growing international fintech-insurtech platform. - Build frameworks that enable safe, inclusive financial access at scale. - Work closely with leadership and regulators to drive responsible innovation. - Competitive compensation with long-term growth and international career opportunities. Compensations Range - We offer a highly competitive package, ranging from £100,000 to £150,000, reflecting both experience and suitability for this pivotal role.