Compliance Monitoring Specialist

One of our established Investment Management clients is seeking a dedicated Compliance Monitoring Officer to strengthen their second-line oversight of investment advice and portfolio management activities. This role is pivotal in ensuring that managed services are delivered in line with FCA regulations, internal policies, and the firm’s commitment to fair client outcomes and a strong compliance culture.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed second-line reviews of client files to assess suitability and appropriateness of investment advice and portfolio recommendations.
• Ensure fact-finds, risk profiling, and suitability assessments are thorough, accurate, and aligned with client circumstances, objectives, and risk appetite, with particular focus on vulnerable clients under Consumer Duty obligations.
• Review and challenge documentation relating to portfolio construction, asset allocation, and investment rationale to ensure compliance with regulatory and internal standards.
• Observe recorded client interactions to confirm adherence to firm and FCA requirements.
• Identify, document, and classify breaches, control weaknesses, and areas for improvement, ensuring clear communication of findings and appropriate follow-up.
• Contribute to thematic and risk-based monitoring reviews across investment management and advisory services.
• Produce clear, high-quality monitoring reports summarising findings, trends, and recommendations.
• Maintain accurate and auditable records of reviews, evidence, and outcomes.
• Assist with management information (MI) reporting for compliance committees and senior leadership.
• Engage with Investment Managers, Portfolio Managers, and Heads of Office to provide constructive feedback and promote best practices.
• Collaborate with the Training & Competence (T&C) team to support training initiatives on suitability and regulatory expectations.
• Act with integrity and in line with Consumer Duty principles, reporting risks that may impact clients or the firm’s reputation.

Desired Qualifications & Experience

• Level 4 Investment Advice Diploma (IAD) or equivalent (e.g., CISI, CII).
• Minimum of three years’ experience in compliance monitoring, audit, or quality assurance within investment management, stockbroking, or wealth management.
• Experience reviewing investment advice or discretionary portfolio management.
• Familiarity with compliance monitoring methodologies, control testing, and risk-based approaches.

Additional Desired Attributes

• Strong working knowledge of FCA rules, particularly around suitability, appropriateness, and client communications.
• Excellent analytical skills with strong attention to detail.
• Sound judgment in identifying conduct and regulatory risks.
• Exceptional written communication and report-writing ability.
• Confidence in engaging with and constructively challenging investment professionals.
• Organised and methodical, with the ability to manage multiple reviews simultaneously.
• High levels of professional integrity, discretion, and commitment to maintaining standards.