Anti-Money Laundering/ Counter-Terrorist Financing

The Anti-Money Laundering/ Counter-Terrorist Financing* (AML/CTF*) Manager, Internal Risk and Compliance will join our Internal Risk and Compliance team in Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane with the Commercial Real Estate practice group (Environment & Planning) in Sydney. This is an exciting opportunity for the role-holder to lead the operational implementation of Baker McKenzie's AML/CTF Program, ensuring compliance with the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Act 2006 (Cth) and the 2025 AML/CTF Rules. This role is critical as the legal profession transitions into Tranche 2 of the AML regime, with new obligations commencing from July 2026.

The individual will work closely with Baker McKenzie's global AML Compliance Service team (located overseas), our AML/CTF Compliance Officer, Risk & Compliance Special Counsel, legal teams, and firm leadership to embed AML/CTF controls into client workflows, manage risk-based processes, and support the firm's readiness for independent evaluations.

Main responsibilities:

• Serve as a key advisor on AML/CTF matters, including queries regarding third-party payers and billing requirements
• Identify issues and trends and monitor the market and regulatory environment to ensure the firm's AML/CTF practices remain current and responsive

Client Due Diligence & Risk Management:

• Conduct initial and ongoing CDD, including identity verification, beneficial ownership checks, and source of funds/wealth analysis, supplementing the work performed by the firm's global AML Compliance Service team
• Facilitate communication and problem-solving between Partners and secretaries in Australia and the AML Compliance Service team
• Perform enhanced due diligence (EDD) for high-risk clients, including politically exposed persons (PEPs) and complex structures
• Maintain AML/CTF risk assessments and update them in response to regulatory changes or internal reviews
• Monitor client transactions for red flags and escalate suspicious activity in accordance with AUSTRAC guidelines
• Coordinate personnel due diligence

Operational Oversight:

• Manage Australian aspects of AML workflows across matter intake, onboarding, and ongoing monitoring
• Maintain secure and auditable AML/CTF records, including client verification documents and internal registers
• Assist in drafting and submitting Suspicious Matter Reports (SMRs)
• Prepare internal AML/CTF reports for the Management Committee and governing body

Program Development & Evaluation:

• Support the development and continuous improvement of the firm's AML/CTF Program
• Coordinate independent evaluations every three years and implement recommendations
• Assist in preparing the firm's annual compliance report to AUSTRAC
• Monitor regulatory developments and industry trends to ensure the AML/CTF Program remains current and effective

Training & Awareness:

• Monitor third-party AML/CTF e-learning course
• Deliver supplemental AML/CTF training to legal and support staff, tailored to designated services and risk profiles
• Track e-learning and supplemental training completion and report on compliance metrics
• Promote a culture of compliance and ethical conduct across the Firm

Technology & Innovation:

• Collaborate with IT and compliance teams to implement AML technology solutions (e.g., digital ID verification, automated risk scoring)
• Identify opportunities to streamline AML processes and improve operational efficiency

Skills and experience:

• A bachelor's degree in Law, Business, Finance, Risk Management, or a related field
• Good experience in AML/CTF or KYC compliance, preferably in legal, financial services, or consulting
• Strong knowledge of the AML/CTF Act, 2025 Rules, and AUSTRAC reporting obligations
• Experience with onboarding, CDD/EDD, transaction monitoring, and SMR preparation
• Familiar with legal privilege and confidentiality in a law firm context
• Excellent analytical, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills
• Able to manage competing priorities and work independently
• Proficient with AML platforms and tools (e.g., digital ID verification platforms like Equifax, LexisNexis, or GBG; workflow systems like Intapp or iManage)

Location:  

Sydney, Brisbane, or Melbourne

Reports to:

AML Compliance Manager

Position Type: 

In Market

Development Framework:

Manager