With the foundation set and several key roles already in place, we are now ready for a pivotal leadership role to join our expanding Financial Crime team, within our Global Business Acceptance Team (GBAT). Leading a small team, you will be part of the change journey where we continue to improve, enhance and explore, including Gen AI optimisation. An exciting opportunity that allows for creation and embedding of new processes plus leadership and guidance for a growing team. Flexibility to be based out of any KWM office location in Australia Who are we? A firm born in Asia, underpinned by world class capability. With over 3700 lawyers in 26 global locations, we help our clients manage their risk and enable their growth. Our full-service offering combines un-matched top tier local capability complemented with an international platform. We have deep roots in Australia spanning almost 200 years and acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the traditional owners and custodians of these lands and waters. Role Detail Our Global Business Acceptance Team (GBAT) is growing as our AML/CTF and Financial Crime responsibilities expand, and as we embark on a Strategic Program to optimise the firm’s governance, global business acceptance and engagement risk & compliance policies, processes, systems and controls (governance framework). Several initial hires have already joined, and we are now recruiting further roles to complete and strengthen this strategic team. Reporting to, and working closely with, the Brisbane based Head of Financial Crime, you will play a key role in preventing, detecting, and mitigating financial crime within our organisation. As a leader within the Global Business Acceptance Team, you will play a key role in driving and optimising our financial crime program. Key responsibilities include: Contributing to thought leadership, policy and system development and internal capability building for the King & Wood Mallesons Financial Crime and Business Acceptance function. Conducting horizon scanning and providing expert guidance and support to senior management and other stakeholders on AML/CTF compliance issues, emerging risk, and regulatory developments. Working closely with various functional stakeholders, ensuring compliance with all applicable regulatory and contractual requirements. Leading various compliance related projects and tasks as required. Develop/update and implement financial crime prevention policies and procedures. Oversee the execution of KWM’s financial crime program, conduct assurance and deliver performance metrics and reporting. Mentor and supervise a small team conducting client and matter risk assessment and due diligence as part of client onboarding and ongoing due diligence. Act as the key point of contact for audits. Provide training and guidance to staff on financial crime prevention and compliance. Monitor and analyse financial transactions to detect suspicious activities. Prepare and submit reports to regulatory authorities as required. About You This role is a chance to shape and grow a team and process, so will suit someone who likes building, leading, and improving systems from the ground up. You will be logical by nature, and pragmatic by approach. You will align to our guiding principles of betterment, quality and clarity and be excited about the opportunity to contribute. Working collaboratively with the Head of Financial Crime you will be valued, respected and included. We are looking for both strategic and hands-on—comfortable setting high-level direction and also rolling up their sleeves to get things done. You will also need: Experience in financial crime compliance, anti-money laundering (AML), counter-terrorism financing (CTF), or similar regulatory environments (preferably in legal, banking, or professional services). Familiarity with due diligence—knowing how to research and verify client info using databases and public records. Understanding of risk management in client onboarding or business intake processes. Strong attention to detail, as you’ll be working with sensitive legal and financial information. Analytical and investigative skills—you need to spot red flags and decide when to dig deeper. Communication skills—you’ll work with internal stakeholders and need to explain your findings clearly. Ability to manage workload independently, staying on top of tasks and escalations. Relevant professional certification from ACAMS, ICA or other A bachelor's degree in law, finance or business administration Next Steps Please click ‘Apply Now’ to apply online with your cover letter summarising why you’re applying and your resume to support your experience. Applications close COB Wednesday 3rd September 2025. If you have any questions or need any further information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Bridget on 02) 9296 3563. If you are not an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you must hold all visas and other approvals necessary for you to work for the firm in Australia. Why work with us? We promote a collaborative culture where people feel respected, valued and supported both personally and professionally, and where diversity and inclusion also play an important role in enhancing our knowledge, driving innovative solutions for our clients and creating positive social impact . We live by our Principles , and strive for mastery in all that we do. We take pride in the high quality work we deliver. Working with colleagues and clients who are leaders in their fields, means the ability to explore new paths to progress with continual learning and development, career and leadership opportunities. As part of the KWM community you’ll have access to a suite of wellbeing initiatives, benefits , policies and processes, to enable you to achieve your career goals. At KWM, we’ll provide you with the platform to Learn, Master, Lead.
