Our client, an Estonia-based Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) currently progressing through the CASP and EMI licensing process, is seeking a Head of Compliance & AML to join its Management Board. The company is part of a Global Group – a multi jurisdictional fintech and digital asset infrastructure provider with presence across the EU, UK, USA and Middle East. Company builds regulated rails for digital assets and fiat payments, offering business clients IBANs, crypto wallets, cross border payments, cards acquiring, card issuing and more, all under a single compliant framework.

🔍 Responsibilities:

• Lead the company’s overall Compliance and AML/CTF strategy, ensuring alignment with Estonian and EU regulations.

• Serve as a Board Member, providing governance oversight and regulatory accountability.

• Act as the primary point of contact with Estonian FIU, EFSA, and other regulatory bodies during and after the CASP and EMI licensing process.

• Develop, implement, and maintain the full compliance framework, including policies, procedures, risk assessments, and internal control systems.

• Oversee AML/CTF programs, including KYC, onboarding, monitoring, EDD, sanctions screening, and reporting obligations.

• Build and guide the compliance function, collaborating closely with the MLRO and internal stakeholders.

• Prepare regular Board reports on compliance performance, risks, and regulatory updates.

• Ensure continuous training and promote a strong compliance culture across the organization.

• Provide independent challenge on strategic decisions from a regulatory, legal, and risk perspective.

🎓 Requirements:

• Proven experience as Head of Compliance, CCO, AML Officer, MLRO, or Board-level Compliance Leader with  Banking or Fintech (EMI, API) background.

• Strong understanding of Estonian AML/CTF regulation, CASP and EMI requirements, EU financial regulatory frameworks, and supervisory expectations.

• Previous experience working closely with FIU or EFSA is a strong plus.

• Demonstrated capability to act as a Board Member under Estonian regulatory standards.

• Exceptional communication, integrity, and decision-making skills.

• Ability to manage complex licensing processes and engage confidently with regulators.

• Estonian citizen and current resident (mandatory for regulatory fit & proper).
  

• Fluency in Estonian and English, both written and spoken, is required.

✨ The Employer Offers:

• A high-influence Board role in a company preparing for CASP and EMI licensing.

• Full ownership of the Compliance & AML agenda and regulatory framework.

• Flexible hybrid/remote working model.

• Competitive compensation and long-term leadership opportunities.

• Collaboration with seasoned banking and payments professionals.

• A mission-driven environment focused on responsible innovation and regulatory excellence.