A specialist recruitment consultancy operating within Compliance, Credit Risk & Analytics, Customer Contact, Finance & Audit, ​Financial Crime & Fraud, Procurement and Risk Management

Business Continuity / Operational Resilience Manager

Birmingham

£38,000 - £44,000

Financial Services business, located in the West Midlands, and looking to hire a Business Continuity / Operational resilience Manager to join a newly created Operational Resilience Team. This team is part of the wider Operations function, and plays a vital role in ensuring the business can identify, remediate, monitor and report on operational resilience related risks. Key responsibilities include: Contribute to the on-going development and maintenance of the Operational Resilience Framework, ensuring a consistent approach and execution across all functions and locations. Collaborate with business functions in completing annual Business Impact Assessments (BIA) and development of Business Continuity Plans (BCP), using the firms dedicated Business Continuity software. Provide independent challenge to the assumptions of each 1st line business function. Conduct threat risk assessments to help estimate the likelihood and impact of a range of industry, location and specific risks. Focusing planning and testing on the more likely / higher impact incidents that the Group may be exposed to. Write reports to summarise testing activities, including descriptions of goals, planning, scheduling, execution, results, analysis, conclusions, and recommendations. Support the development and implementation of an on-going training and awareness programme to ensure that knowledge is developed and proportionate, based upon the needs of the Group. Contribute to the design, implementation and monitoring of internal indicators and metrics which enable the firm to understand and improve its performance and assess its efficiency and effectiveness. Collaborate across the business, to continually identify the operations, processes and technologies required in building and maintain optimal recovery plans/arrangements Experience Required: Demonstrable knowledge of the regulatory landscape, applicable business continuity and resilience standards and industry good practice and standards Demonstrable knowledge of the BCM lifecycle with experience in the implementation and management of business continuity in a financial services environment Excellent written and verbal communications skills as appropriate for the needs of the audience Excellent organisational skills; ability to balance priorities to meet multiple deadlines Detailed knowledge of the workings of similar Financial Services organisations

Head of Credit Risk

London

£100,000 - £150,000 dependent on experience

MERJE is looking for an experienced Credit Risk professional to join a start-up bank that is will be offering fantastic retail and commercial FS products using a unique business model. This role is not for the faint hearted! It will be fast paced and have broad responsibilities, working with the highly reputable senior leadership team to implement a cohesive credit risk management framework from scratch. On offer is a generous salary for the right person, as well as a rare opportunity to build a business from the very beginning, using your Credit Risk expertise to make impactful and meaningful decisions without the hierarchy and complex processes of a large institution. Salary banding is £100,000 - £150,000 dependent on experience. Based in London, the business offers a flexible working culture. Currently majority home working with meetings once or twice per week as needed. Long-term, the role holder will be expected to be in the London office 3/4 days per week minimum. This company is unable to provide sponsorship Key Responsibilities of the Head of Credit Risk: Implement and lead 2LOD activities, monitoring the evolution of the credit risk profile, appetite and framework of the bank Contribute to the company’s long term goals, such as establishing the credit risk team and supporting evolution across all credit risk portfolios, building up loan portfolios including retail & BTL mortgages, unsecured personal loans and SME loans Analyse data for the various portfolios, review credit risk models, and utilise data to inform business decisions relating to credit risk strategies, policies, processes, tools, technologies, etc. Required knowledge and experience for the Head of Credit Risk role: Strong experience in credit risk management within Retail and/or SME lending, with retail & BTL mortgages being highly preferred Excellent analytical abilities – confident in working with, analysing and understanding data Leadership and communication skills, able to build and lead a team, present to boards and committees, challenge where necessary and communicate complex information in a simple manner Comfortable reviewing and understanding credit risk models, how they work and how they inform areas such as underwriting, financial forecasting, stress testing, etc. Other beneficial experience – stress testing, regulatory requirements such as MCOB, CONC, CRR, arrears management, lending through partnership agreements Please note, should feedback not be received within 28 days due to the large volume of applications, unfortunately your application has been unsuccessful. However, we may be in touch with similar relevant opportunities.

Compliance and Risk Manager

Warrington

c.£45,000 + Benefits

My client is currently seeking an experienced Compliance Manager who has worked in a regulated financial services environment such as an MGA, Insurer or Broker/Insurance Intermediary Firm. The Manager will be a key part of the group compliance function and will be a ‘certified individual’ under SM&CR. Key responsibilities include: Periodically conducts high level audits and reviews to ensure execution of compliance standards Conduct Second line monitoring and audits of business units and delivery appropriate feedback Leading in the development and execution of a Compliance Monitoring Framework/ Plan for all business functions Oversee continuous embedding of ISO27001 Information Security Management Framework and adherence to the standard Oversee and maintain PCIDSS payment card compliance requirements Oversee the continuous development of Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Plans, Business Impact Assessments and overall strategy Maintain our contract library for key business contracts Conduct horizon scanning exercises on an ongoing basis, and where needed communicate and potential changes out to the senior management team Examines and improve auditing processes to prevent compliance issues or resolve them in a timely manner Conduct initial and ongoing due diligence on third party companies that work with the group Complete due diligence packs requested by appropriate third parties Ensure company’s policies and rules are in line with regulatory and ethical standards Escalate any high/ medium risks to appropriate individuals with relevant mitigation action Review current processes and procedures to ensure consistency with FCA and other regulatory bodies, making recommendations where necessary and facilitating implementation The Person: Significant compliance experience with the insurance industry Vast experience and knowledge of FCA/PRA regulation including but not limited ICOBS, CONC, CASS, SYSC and IDD Proven experience in working within a regulated environment in a compliance role, preferable insurance or insurance intermediary

Finance Project Manager

London

Up to £500 per day

My client, a leading International Bank urgently require Finance support on a finance transformation project. To succeed in this role, you will be a qualified accountant with demonstrable Project Management experience along with experience working on complex IT platforms. Specifically: Experience in Forecasting, Planning and Analysis methodologies. Strong understanding of Tax, Transfer Pricing and Accounting policies and processes Knowledge of Governance/Control Framework designed & Implemented. Comprehensive understanding of end to end Balance Sheet Controls. Experience in the integration of accounting and core banking systems requirements with the general ledger ‘big bank’ experience. 8+years of experience in large scale change efforts including change management aspects of delivery. Demonstrates leadership skills – must be able to motivate, influence and manage conflict resolution across geographies. Demonstrate advanced knowledge of plan development and execution, scope planning, schedule management, cost estimating and control, quality planning assurance, organizational planning, project communications, risk identification/ response control and management. Demonstrate strong knowledge of project management methodologies and tools, resource management practices and organizational change management techniques. Initially this role is for 6 Months and will be inside IR35 Please note, should feedback not be received within 28 days due to the large volume of applications, unfortunately your application has been unsuccessful. However, we may be in touch with similar relevant opportunities.

Head of Sales

London

£75,000 pa

HOME BASED My client is looking for a Head of Sales to have responsibility for the sales activity of the Group where needs to have Payments background and strong people leadership. Responsibilities include: Manage and motivate the teams to exceed results Setting activity and revenue targets for members of the sales team in conjunction with the Sales & Commercial Director. Continual training and development of all members of the sales department. Attending key meetings with members of the sales team. Collaborate on account management plans with Service and Operations teams. Identifying key areas for improvement in the sales process. Spotting market opportunities for new customers. Attending monthly meetings with the Senior Leadership team. All aspects of recruitment and selection for the sales department. Attending industry events and conferences to generate new business leads. Acting as a spokesperson for the organisation at sales events and conferences. Skills & Experience: Payments background with strong sales experience Sales People Leadership experience Strong interpersonal and communication skills to C- Suite level. Ability to understand and deliver on company strategy in a fast-paced environment. A real passion for personal and business growth and openness to fast paced change. A proven history in leading a Sales Function or similar role. Demonstrable organisational and leadership qualities. Ability to use data and analysis to create meaningful dialogue with colleagues and clients. A problem solver. The ability to make logical decisions in a diverse and complex environment using technology derived information. Ability to inspire sales teams through motivational techniques and thought leadership. Results driven with a passion to succeed. Commercial awareness and knowledge of how best to increase profit margins. Please note, should feedback not be received within 28 days due to the large volume of applications, unfortunately your application has been unsuccessful. However, we may be in touch with similar relevant opportunities.

Head of Sales

Manchester

£75,000

Job Description: My client is looking for a Head of Sales to have responsibility for the sales activity of the Group where needs to have Payments background and strong people leadership. Responsibilities include: Manage and motivate the teams to exceed results Setting activity and revenue targets for members of the sales team in conjunction with the Sales & Commercial Director. Continual training and development of all members of the sales department. Attending key meetings with members of the sales team. Collaborate on account management plans with Service and Operations teams. Identifying key areas for improvement in the sales process. Spotting market opportunities for new customers. Attending monthly meetings with the Senior Leadership team. All aspects of recruitment and selection for the sales department. Attending industry events and conferences to generate new business leads. Acting as a spokesperson for the organisation at sales events and conferences. Skills & Experience: Payments background with strong sales experience Sales People Leadership experience Strong interpersonal and communication skills to C- Suite level. Ability to understand and deliver on company strategy in a fast-paced environment. A real passion for personal and business growth and openness to fast paced change. A proven history in leading a Sales Function or similar role. Demonstrable organisational and leadership qualities. Ability to use data and analysis to create meaningful dialogue with colleagues and clients. A problem solver. The ability to make logical decisions in a diverse and complex environment using technology derived information. Ability to inspire sales teams through motivational techniques and thought leadership. Results driven with a passion to succeed. Commercial awareness and knowledge of how best to increase profit margins. Please note, should feedback not be received within 28 days due to the large volume of applications, unfortunately your application has been unsuccessful. However, we may be in touch with similar relevant opportunities.

Bid Manager

Stoke-on-Trent

£25,000 - £40,000 plus benefits

My client is a leading technology business who are looking for a Bid Manager to join a growing presales team. It’s an important role within the business and is offering a lot of growth potential. Key responsibilities include: Identify relevant opportunities on public sector frameworks, contracts finder and tracker Manage bid qualification process (bid/no bid) for new opportunities Manage cross-departmental bid teams Understanding, dissecting and reviewing commercial and contractual requirements Tight control of clarification questions, answers and response deadlines Contributing to and reviewing written proposals Conduct post-bid review sessions Maintain and improve bid templates & the bid process Key Requirements: Excellent communicator Deep proficiency with the Microsoft Office stack Strong understanding of IT/software Understanding of the bid process & solution selling Experience working on multi-million pound opportunities desirable but not mandatory Time management Please note, should you not receive feedback 28 days, unfortunately your application has been unsuccessful. However, we may be in touch with similar relevant opportunities.

Credit Risk Manager

Leeds

Up to £55,000

MERJE is looking for an experienced Credit Risk Manager to join an established Financial Services business with a long history of consumer lending. On offer is a salary of up to £55,000 + benefits, as well as fantastic development and progression opportunities, a supportive and collaborative working environment and a vibrant office in the city centre. This company is unable to provide sponsorship Key Responsibilities of the Credit Risk Manager: Support the business in delivering strategic growth objectives by working with other business areas and the wider Credit Risk team to ensure commercial lending is safe, responsible and within appetite Define lending criteria, drive change and manage credit risks Portfolio management of the commercial lending book, monitoring asset quality, identifying emerging issues and potential impacts on financial stability Ensure the production of high quality, insightful credit risk analytics Use your expertise and knowledge to mentor and coach team members Required knowledge and experience for the Credit Risk Manager role: 3+ years’ experience in a similar credit risk management role within mortgage lending Excellent analytical and problem solving abilities Good technical skills with SAS and Excel Strong communication, presenting, attention to detail and accuracy skills Comfortable presenting and influencing at a senior level as well as coaching junior colleagues Please note, should feedback not be received within 28 days due to the large volume of applications, unfortunately your application has been unsuccessful. However, we may be in touch with similar relevant opportunities.

Senior Credit Risk Analyst (Decisioning)

Leeds

Up to £38,000

MERJE is looking for an experienced Credit Risk Analyst to join an established Financial Services business with a long history of consumer lending. On offer is a salary of up to £38,000 + benefits, as well as fantastic development and progression opportunities, a supportive and collaborative working environment and a vibrant office in the city centre. This company is unable to provide sponsorship Key Responsibilities of the Senior Credit Risk Analyst: Conduct complex analysis using SAS and SQL to identify improvement opportunities within the decision engines Develop, implement and maintain policy and decisioning strategies Analyse data, monitor / report on strategy performance and translate data into actionable insight Deliver new policy and propositions Build and test innovative solutions to maximise efficiency and automation in the decisioning systems Liaise with other areas of the business and the wider Credit Risk team Required knowledge and experience for the Senior Credit Risk Analyst role: 2+ years’ experience in a similar role or risk/analytics function, with specific expertise in acquisition strategies, lending policy and regulations, decisioning systems and/or policy automation Excellent analytical and problem solving abilities Good technical skills with SAS, SQL and Excel (LUA Desirable) A Financial Services background Excellent attention to detail and accuracy skills Please note, should feedback not be received within 28 days due to the large volume of applications, unfortunately your application has been unsuccessful. However, we may be in touch with similar relevant opportunities.

Head of Oversight

Leeds

£90,000 - £100,000 plus bonus and benefits

Our client is a well-respected Financial Services business who are looking to recruit a Head of Oversight. Reporting to the CEO you will lead, direct, oversee and provide a robust control framework for the operational oversight activity of the business, including the First Line Operations. To direct and oversee strategic and operational direction for the Oversight department to align with and contribute to the wider business strategy and appropriate risk management framework including assessment, mitigate and report on the risk profile. Key responsibilities include: Direct and oversee the efficient and effective operational oversight of the business target operating model. Ensure a robust control framework features to evidence conformance to SYSC8 outsourcing requirements and best industry practices to ensure effective oversight and governance. Oversee and provide executive level guidance on the management of operational risks within the business and ensure that operational business resilience and continuity is effectively planned and managed. Develop, manage and maintain the relationship with the outsourced servicing provider at a Senior level. Ensure all regulatory obligations are discharged and that customer outcomes consistently meet Board risk appetite and conduct expectations Evaluate, analyse and interpret operational, servicer and management information and KRIs to develop associated strategies for growth, change and improvement in light of this information. Design and implement operational strategies, plans and procedures which align to achieve overall business objectives, ensuring periodic reviews and updates to ensure continued relevance of those plan. Manage and develop 3rd party panels to support operational activities – including the provision of relevant performance data. Manage an effective governance framework with 3rd party providers. Provide strategic leadership for department managers to achieve agreed business goals and objectives, KPI’s and other relevant deliverables. Establish and communicate policies that promote culture and vision and, lead employees to encourage maximum performance and engagement which comply with regulatory permissions and follow market best practice. Maintain and develop knowledge of the requirements of the FCA regulatory framework and always act in accordance with the requirements of the FCA, and any additional SMCR requirements. The ideal Candidate: In-depth knowledge and experience of working in an FCA regulated business with a focus on Mortgages. Operational experience ideally with previous experience of 1st line oversight. Sound regulatory understanding of Operational responsibilities in the context of SYSC 8 Demonstrate ability to identify, manage and mitigate risk Detailed working knowledge of operational practices and best practice methodologies, including all regulatory and legal requirements.

Management Accountant

Manchester

£35,000 - £50,000

MERJE are partnered with an International Financial Services organisation in their search for a talented multi lingual Management Accountant. Ideally you with have conversational skills in German (verbal essential) and another European language. This opportunity comes with fantastic employee benefits that include: Luxurious office environment in a superb location 31 days holidays per year including 8 bank holidays Reserved secure car parking spaces available Comprehensive benefits and discounts package Healthcare Scheme* Company pension plan Life Assurance* Cycle2work scheme* (* subject to qualifying period) Your new role: Reporting to the Head of Finance, International, the incumbent will be responsible for producing management accounts for the business, running the month end process in line with group. Key responsibilities Produce monthly management accounts Run month end process in line with group Balance sheet reviews Financial analysis explaining month over month, year over year, & budget fluctuations Ensuring that financial controls are robust and compliant Adhere to financial controls and suggest and implement process improvements Prepare KPIs for management Budget and forecasting Fixed cost analysis Debtor and Creditor reviews and analysis Cost control and weekly cash focus Reconciliation of ledgers Finance Business Partnering Liaise with external Auditor Leading all payroll, VAT, and HMRC tax processes Coach and develop part qualified accountant Essential skills and experience: ACA / ACCA / CIMA qualified Accountant Fluent in another EU language (German-preferred; Spanish, Portuguese, Swedish-plus) • Experience in a similar role with exposure to various GAAPs, IFRS, FRS 101 Excellent analytical skills Strong excel skills Process driven, ability to suggest and implement improvements and efficiency's Initiative – problem solving and desire to improve Multi-lingual in European languages in addition to English Committed, proactive, collaborative and confident attitude Experience in working within a financial services business (preferred, not required) ERP - Microsoft Dynamics Great Plains (preferred, not required) Please note, should you not receive feedback within 28 days, unfortunately your application has been unsuccessful. However, we may be in touch with similar relevant opportunities.

Compliance Manager-German Speaking

Manchester

£45,000 - £55,000 pa

Financial Services firm, located in Manchester, are looking to appoint a Compliance Manager to join an established Compliance Department to ensure the firm continues to meet requirements published by the relevant regulatory bodies and compliance framework. The role holder will play a key part in ensuring adherence to all internal and external rules and regulations in the UK and providing compliance support to the firms European entities. Key responsibilities include: Managing and supervising the Compliance team, ensuring that all work is completed by the team in a timely manner and within SLAs. Deputising for the Director of Legal and Compliance during periods of leave and to support them with their duties. Acting as the Deputy Money Laundering Reporting Officer. Applying agreed processes and procedures to ensure complaints are investigated and resolved Ensuring complaints and compliance procedures remain up to date and in line with the latest rules and guidance. Coordinating and managing 2nd Line of Defence Compliance Monitoring programme and to report the results to the Director of Legal and Compliance, the Risk Committee and to the Board where appropriate. Assisting the Data Protection Officer under General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) with monitoring compliance with GDPR and other data protection laws, our data protection policies, awareness-raising, training, and audits. Assist with ensuring the Risk Management framework remains up to date, including the incident management framework and sign off of remedial actions. Assisting with the preparation of FCA regulatory and Compliance related internal reports. Experience Required: Multilingual - fluent in English and German Good people management, organisation, and communication skills with proven experience in managing a Compliance Team. An in-depth understanding of the FCA’s CONC sourcebook and a good understanding of the wider FCA handbook and regulatory framework. A track record of working in a regulated environment providing practical support and advice on risk and compliance related matters. To discuss the role in greater detail please contact Michael Ayres on 0161-883-2758 or send through your CV to mayres@merje.com Please note, should feedback not be received within 28 days due to the large volume of applications, unfortunately your application has been unsuccessful. However, we may be in touch with similar relevant opportunities.

Finance Manager (Financial Services)

Wellingborough

£55,000 pa

MERJE are partnered with a Financial Services business with a focus on Asset Finance. They require a talented Finance Manager to lead the finance team, build processes and routines, develop financial reporting and insights, and act as an advisor to the Finance Leadership team. Our ideal candidate will have hands-on experience of Finance routines from a lending background, with an appreciation of current accounting standards and tax legislation. You will be highly motivated, with an enquiring mind and passion to help the business grow and develop by building and maintaining effective Finance routines and discipline. Their business is starting to automate their Finance processes so you will ideally have experience of, or had exposure to, an automation project. Key Responsibilities Help set out and deliver Management accounting and finance processes and routines Maintain and evolve key financial control processes to ensure the integrity of financial information Manage processes to ensure that the business remains complaint with current and future Financial standards, including engagement with Auditors Lead the development of financial reporting to provide the management team and board of Directors with insightful views on financial performance Act as a partner and advisor to the leadership team – helping to drive an understanding of business performance, financial reporting (inc. regulatory) and tax issues Close collaboration with Operational Managers and Group functions Focus on the development of people and future leaders by providing training, coaching and mentoring to the Finance teams Experience Requirements Proven experience of managing a Finance team and coordinating key month-end and reporting routines Clear understanding of the importance of maintaining and developing key controls and checks to ensure the integrity of financial reporting Demonstrates an understanding of Accounting Standards and tax treatment in a lending firm Experience of developing Finance processes and leading change Knowledge of Asset Finance products and processes (not essential) Skills Qualified accountant with experience within a lending business Dynamic, technically strong and able to operate with gravitas across the organisation Control mindset with an understanding of risk and building effective finance controls Problem solver, understanding the root-causes of issues and able to drive solutions Integrity, openness and commitment to good governance Passion for working as part of a team and collaborating to achieve greater results Flexible working and part-time options will be considered Please note, should you not receive feedback within 28 days, unfortunately your application has been unsuccessful. However, we may be in touch with similar relevant opportunities.

Compliance Monitoring Officer – Asset Manager

London

£50,000 - £60,000

Client MERJE are currently representing a large global investment house in the search for a Compliance Monitoring specialist. Our client is highly reputable Asset Manager with a focus on emerging-market equities, multi-asset strategies, absolute return investing and global bonds. The Role: The key objective of the role is to provide assurance that regulatory risk is being adequately managed within the business and the individual will be a part of a team of 3 supporting the Head of Compliance Monitoring. You will be responsible for: Assisting with the execution of the compliance monitoring plan to include: Planning monitoring assignments and executing them in a timely manner in line with the agreed monitoring plan Conducting the pre-scoping exercise for each monitoring review (including meeting with key stakeholders), documenting the scope Conducting all field work, evaluating risk and processes and procedures, documenting all testing and sampling. Compiling and organising all review documentation and testing output to ensure a clear audit trail Drafting reports and agreeing issues with stakeholders Contributing to the Compliance Department’s assessment of the regulatory risks faced by the business Involvement in ad hoc Compliance projects and tasks as appropriate Representing the monitoring team at governance committees and forums as required and/or preparing monitoring MI Requirements: 3-4 years of relevant 2nd line risk based / thematic monitoring experience Ideally worked in an Asset or Investment Management environment Experience of applying monitoring methodologies / audit methodology within financial organisations Demonstrate understanding of the 2nd line of defence and of Compliance review work in general Good level of knowledge of UK regulatory requirements essential, covering topics such as Market Abuse, Conflicts of Interest, TCF, Dealing and Managing, Best Execution, Financial Promotions Able to build and maintain relationships with key business stakeholders of all levels Well organised self-starter, able to prioritise quickly and adapt to tight timeframes and meet deadlines Able to walk through processes and procedures and detect possible control weaknesses to target testing appropriately

Risk & Reporting Manager

Birmingham

c. £75,000 plus benefits

The role will involve supporting the business in further developing, rolling out, embedding and maintaining the Group’s Enterprise-wide Risk Management Framework as well as undertaking day to day risk management activities. Key responsibilities include: Support the Head of Risk in further defining, documenting and training out the Group’s ERM Framework, including policies and guides, training & comms materials. Work with colleagues in each business function to ensure that they have properly identified and documented their key risks and associated controls and other mitigants and their action plans to address control gaps and other enhancements needed. Further develop risk event capture, review risk events and support and challenge business areas in taking appropriate remedial actions. Produce analysis and reporting on risk events including key trends and themes, adequacy and timeliness of management actions, etc. Assist the Head of Risk in the development and roll out a control self-assessment process, including working with each ExCo member and their delegate to help them understand what is required and how to undertake their CSA. Monitor for relevant market and regulatory developments relating to risk management requirements and practices and ensure the business is responding appropriately. Assist the Head of Risk with analysis of risk registers, risk events, operational loss and other data needed to enable preparation of high quality risk reporting for the Group Risk Committee and other forums. Act as the secretary to the Group Risk Committee and the Risk Events & Complaints Forum, preparing and circulating papers in advance and attending and minuting meetings. Assist the CRO in the ongoing development and preparation of regular reporting for ExCo, Boards and Committees Represent R&C on cross-functional projects and undertake other ad hoc tasks as directed. The Person: A deep understanding of risk management practices, tools, techniques and processes and good experience of working with all of these over +3 years. Good understanding of FCA requirements relating to risk management & systems and controls. Experience working in wealth management