We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Compliance Officer to join the compliance function of a well-established international organisation based in Cyprus. This confidential role will be responsible for supporting and overseeing key compliance activities across KYC, AML, sanctions, due diligence, risk assessment and trade controls, with a particular focus on international clients, suppliers, crew and maritime-related operations. The successful candidate will have strong experience within a regulated environment and the ability to independently assess and manage complex compliance matters, including cross-border ownership structures, sanctions risks and enhanced due diligence cases. The role will also involve monitoring the effectiveness of existing controls, maintaining robust audit trails and providing practical compliance guidance to internal stakeholders.
This is an excellent opportunity for a compliance professional with a strong background in shipping, maritime, banking, trade finance, logistics or another relevant regulated environment to join an international organisation and take ownership of a broad range of compliance responsibilities. This search is strictly confidential. The company name and specific industry will not be disclosed at this stage.
MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
-
Take ownership of KYC, customer due diligence and beneficial ownership assessments for clients, suppliers and crew, including complex and cross-border ownership structures.
-
Conduct enhanced due diligence and risk assessments for higher-risk clients, counterparties and suppliers, escalating matters where appropriate.
-
Manage sanctions and trade-control screening for international operations, including reviewing counterparties, cargo, ports, jurisdictions and payment touchpoints.
-
Conduct periodic sanctions screening exercises and investigate potential matches and other identified risks.
-
Monitor sanctions and regulatory developments across relevant EU, UK/OFSI and OFAC regimes and translate changes into practical internal guidance.
-
Review and assess sanctions, AML and adverse-media risks and make appropriate recommendations or escalate cases in line with internal policies.
-
Maintain and monitor the quality and integrity of compliance screening processes and systems, identifying discrepancies, gaps and areas for improvement.
-
Conduct periodic testing of compliance processes and controls to ensure procedures are being followed effectively and consistently.
-
Maintain complete and accurate documentation and audit trails for compliance decisions, ensuring records are sufficient for internal audit and regulatory review.
-
Support supplier due diligence and ensure appropriate compliance provisions are incorporated into supplier agreements.
-
Support the management of higher-risk supplier relationships through periodic compliance reviews.
-
Review individual conflict-of-interest disclosures and administer gift and hospitality approvals in accordance with company policy.
-
Support anti-bribery and anti-corruption controls and related reporting requirements.
-
Coordinate with internal stakeholders, including Compliance, Legal, Operations and senior management, on complex or escalated compliance matters.
-
Support regulatory monitoring, compliance training and updates to internal policies, procedures and guidance.
-
Provide compliance due diligence support in relation to corporate transactions, including M&A, joint ventures and restructuring activities.
-
Identify opportunities to strengthen compliance processes, controls and risk-management practices.
CANDIDATE PROFILE
-
Proven experience in a Compliance, AML, KYC, sanctions, financial crime, risk or related role, ideally within shipping, maritime, banking, trade finance, logistics or another regulated international environment.
-
Approximately 4–7 years of relevant professional experience in compliance, sanctions, AML/KYC or trade controls.
-
Strong practical knowledge of KYC, CDD, EDD, beneficial ownership and risk-based customer assessment.
-
Good working knowledge of international sanctions requirements, including EU, UK/OFSI and OFAC regimes.
-
Experience handling complex or multi-layered ownership structures and cross-border risk assessments.
-
Hands-on experience with sanctions and KYC screening platforms such as World-Check, Dow Jones RiskCenter, Lloyd's List/SeaSearcher or equivalent systems would be advantageous.
-
Strong understanding of AML, anti-bribery and anti-corruption controls, including conflicts of interest and gifts/hospitality procedures.
-
Experience identifying control weaknesses, conducting compliance monitoring or controls testing would be highly desirable.
-
Strong analytical and investigative skills, with the ability to assess information, identify risk indicators and make well-reasoned decisions.
-
Excellent attention to detail and the ability to maintain accurate and defensible compliance records.
-
Confident communicator with the ability to work effectively with senior stakeholders and cross-functional teams.
-
Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities and exercise sound judgement when dealing with sensitive and confidential matters.
-
Degree in Law, Business, International Relations, Accounting, Audit or a related discipline.
-
Relevant AML, compliance, sanctions or risk certification would be considered an advantage.
-
Fluent English is essential; Greek would be considered an advantage.
SALARY AND BENEFITS
-
€36,000 - €42,000 Gross Per Annum.
-
Salary will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and skills. The advertised salary range is indicative, any offer will reflect the successful candidate’s suitability.
-
Medical Insurance Scheme.
-
Life Insurance.
-
Provident Fund.
-
Hybrid working model.
-
Lunch provision.
-
Opportunity to join a well-established international organisation.
-
Professional development and career growth opportunities.
Due to the high volume of applications, we receive at GRS Recruitment, only shortlisted candidates will be responded to.
To apply for this position, please email your CV to
Ross Pitman, ross@grsrecruitment.com quoting the above job reference or call +357 25 342 736 for further information.