The Chief Compliance Officer (CCO) will be responsible for overseeing and managing the firm's regulatory, compliance, and risk management framework. The CCO will ensure that the organisation complies with all applicable laws and regulations, including those from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), international cryptocurrency regulations, and AML/CTF obligations. This role requires deep expertise in crypto regulations, strong leadership, and the ability to drive strategic initiatives in a rapidly changing market environment.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Regulatory Compliance:

   • Ensure the firm's activities comply with the regulations issued by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), including the Payment Services Act (PSA) and applicable AML/CTF (Anti-Money Laundering/Combating Terrorist Financing) regulations.

   • Monitor evolving global regulations for cryptocurrencies and decentralised financial products (e.g., DeFi, NFTs, stablecoins) and ensure the firm's compliance in multiple jurisdictions.

   • Implement policies and procedures to comply with local and international standards (e.g., FATF, EU directives, SEC regulations).

2. Risk Management:

   • Develop and manage the company’s risk management framework, ensuring a focus on compliance and operational risks specific to decentralised finance and blockchain technology.

   • Assess and mitigate potential risks from technological innovations, such as smart contracts, token issuance, and decentralised exchanges (DEX).

   • Create safeguards against regulatory, legal, and reputational risks, especially as the company grows and enters new markets.

3. Internal Controls and Auditing:

   • Design and implement internal controls to ensure compliance with crypto-specific regulations.

   • Work with external auditors and regulatory bodies during audits and assessments.

   • Ensure continuous monitoring, testing, and refinement of compliance and control systems.

4. AML/CTF Program Management:

   • Oversee the design, implementation, and management of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Combating Terrorist Financing (CTF) programs, including KYC (Know Your Customer) protocols.

   • Monitor transactions for suspicious activity and ensure timely filing of Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) with the relevant authorities.

   • Stay updated with global developments on crypto-related AML frameworks and implement necessary changes.

5. Advisory and Training:

   • Act as the key advisor to the executive team and board of directors on regulatory and compliance matters in the crypto space.

   • Train and educate employees on compliance policies, industry best practices, and emerging regulatory trends.

   • Foster a culture of compliance throughout the organisation by encouraging transparency, ethical behaviour, and regulatory awareness.

6. Liaison with Regulatory Authorities:

   • Maintain relationships with key regulatory bodies (MAS, ICO/IEO regulators, etc.) and industry associations.

   • Serve as the company’s main point of contact during regulatory inquiries, audits, or inspections.

   • Represent the firm in regulatory forums, industry events, and discussions on emerging cryptocurrency laws and standards.

7. Collaboration with Legal and Business Teams:

   • Collaborate with the legal department to interpret and implement new regulatory requirements.

   • Support the business development team by ensuring new products, services, and markets are compliant with local and international laws.

8. Incident Management:

   • Oversee the firm’s response to compliance breaches, incidents, or security violations.

   • Manage the resolution of compliance issues, coordinate investigations, and recommend remediation steps.

9. Monitoring Decentralised Finance (DeFi) Protocols:

   • Implement compliance frameworks that monitor decentralised and autonomous systems, including protocols that leverage smart contracts.

   • Ensure the safety, legality, and ethical operation of DeFi platforms and services.

Key Qualifications:

• Educational Background:
  Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Law, Finance, Business, or a related field. A degree or certification in blockchain/cryptocurrency regulations is advantageous.

• Professional Certifications:
  Certification in AML/CTF (e.g., CAMS, ICA) or other relevant qualifications. Familiarity with DeFi, blockchain technology, or cryptocurrency markets is essential.

• Experience:

  • Minimum of 5-10 years of experience in compliance, risk management, or legal roles, preferably within the financial services industry or crypto/blockchain sectors.

  • In-depth knowledge of MAS regulations, particularly the Payment Services Act (PSA), as well as international standards (e.g., FATF, MiCA, SEC).

  • Strong background in designing and implementing AML/KYC frameworks, ideally in a decentralised or crypto environment.

• Skills:

  • Excellent understanding of decentralised financial ecosystems, blockchain, and tokenomics.

  • Strong leadership and strategic thinking abilities, with the ability to influence senior leadership and foster cross-functional collaboration.

  • Analytical mindset with the ability to identify emerging risks and adapt the firm’s compliance strategy accordingly.

  • Exceptional communication skills for liaising with regulators and internal stakeholders.