Head of Financial Crimes Operations

• Newly created, senior leadership role with real impact
• Drive tech-enabled innovation to keep our customers and bank safe
• Purpose-led culture, flexible work, and a high-profile role
• Enjoy flexibility — work remotely or hybrid from our QLD or SA Offices

About the role: 

We're looking for an experienced and strategic Head of Financial Crimes Operations to lead a talented team who protect our members from the risks of fraud, scams, money laundering, and other forms of financial crime.  This is a senior leadership role where you'll be pivotal in delivering operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and technological innovation in financial crime management.  You'll serve as a trusted advisor to the Executive Committee and work closely with regulators, law enforcement, and industry bodies to ensure People First Bank remains resilient against evolving financial crime threats.

This will include: 

• Leading, mentoring and further developing a high-performing financial crime operations team
• Operationalising fraud and scam strategies and the AML/CTF program 
• Providing strategic insights to senior leadership and the Board on financial crime risks and trends.
• Driving innovation and operational efficiencies through technology, analytics, and automation.
• Collaborating with AUSTRAC, APRA, ASIC and industry partners to ensure regulatory compliance and best practice.
• Promote a proactive financial crime risk culture across the organisation.

About You

You're a proven financial crime leader with deep operational expertise and the ability to lead teams through complexity and change. You combine strategic thinking with hands-on delivery, and you're passionate about using data and technology to enhance customer protection.

Additionally, we seek: 

• Significant experience in financial crime operations, AML/CTF, and/or fraud risk within financial services.
• Strong working knowledge of Australian AML/CTF laws, AUSTRAC obligations, and regulatory expectations.
• Demonstrated leadership of large, multi-disciplinary teams.
• Experience implementing modern fraud and AML/CTF systems and process improvements.
• Outstanding communication, stakeholder engagement, and influencing skills.

Relevant tertiary qualifications, AML/CTF certifications (e.g. CAMS) and a Postgraduate qualification in Compliance, Financial Crime, or Risk Management are all critical requirements for this role. 

Why you'll love working with us:

People First Bank – our new brand – says exactly what we're all about: people. We're committed to supporting and growing our team and creating an outstanding work environment.

You'll have access to financial and lifestyle benefits to support your success and individuality:

• Flexibility and hybrid working arrangements.
• Extend your salary with discounts on banking, health insurance, and shopping across Australia.
• Advance your career with training, study support, and project opportunities.
• Competitive leave benefits that empower employees to take time for themselves and loved ones.
• Wellbeing support with our Employee Assistance Program, wellbeing leave, mental health app, and mental health ambassadors' program.
• Make a difference with paid volunteering, Workplace Giving, and diverse community initiatives.
• Be recognised for your contributions through our peer-driven recognition program.

A bit about People First Bank: 

In March 2023, People's Choice and Heritage Bank merged to form Heritage and People's Choice Limited - Australia's leading mutual bank.  We are now on an exciting journey to bring together our products, services, and technology under a single brand - People First Bank.

We have over 700,000 members and 1,900 employees, with dual head offices in Adelaide and Toowoomba, an Australian-based contact centre and branches across five states. 

With a vision 'To deliver positive change through banking', People First Bank serves members and contributes to the community, while offering an inclusive, flexible work environment. We're big enough to make an impact; but agile enough to influence and do interesting work.

Apply online now:

If this sounds like you, this could be the next step in your career. Click 'Apply' now and submit your application, including a cover letter and current resume. 

We are committed to diversity and inclusion and support candidate requests for adjustments to enable everyone to equitably participate in our selection process.