Head of Strategic Data & Regulatory Partnerships

Careers

SmartSearch’s distinctive Anti-Money Laundering verification software protects our clients by offering the most advanced and comprehensive features available from an AML provider.

SmartSearch has grown rapidly by fostering an incredibly collaborative and supportive culture. As we continue our ambitious growth plans, we will strive to remain a truly exciting, rewarding, and unique place to work.

HOW WILL YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

We are seeking a strategic leader to drive regulatory engagement and manage high-value data partnerships within the AML/KYC domain. This role will be instrumental in shaping regulatory frameworks, maintaining compliance, and building long-term relationships with government agencies and commercial data providers. The successful candidate will work cross-functionally to ensure external data sources align with product strategy and deliver measurable commercial impact. 

VARIED DAY TO DAY RESPONSIBILITIES

Regulatory Engagement 

  • Lead engagement with UK regulators (DIATF, CFIT, FCA, ICO, Ofcom) to shape digital identity and financial crime frameworks. 
  • Represent the organisation in consultations, industry forums, and certification initiatives. 
  • Monitor legislative and regulatory developments, advising leadership on risks and opportunities. 
  • Ensure full compliance with data protection and financial crime regulations. 

Strategic Data Partnerships 

  • Commercial & Negotiation: Work with Product to establish commercial models, identify opportunities arising from regulatory change, and host sector forums with customers on emerging challenges. 
  • Source, negotiate, and manage relationships with government, public sector, and commercial data providers. 
  • Lead Quarterly Business Reviews (QBRs) and annual strategic reviews to assess performance and set long-term objectives. 
  • Oversee contracts, licensing, and supplier governance including audits, renewals, and risk assessments. 

Cross-Functional Collaboration 

  • Partner with product, engineering, and data teams to ensure datasets meet business, technical, and regulatory needs. 
  • Drive internal alignment and embed regulatory and data strategy across product and operational functions. 

Public Affairs & Policy 

  • Build and maintain relationships with government bodies, industry groups, and policy influencers. 
  • Track and leverage open data and public-private initiatives to unlock new opportunities. 

Leadership & Strategy 

  • Define and deliver long-term goals for regulatory alignment and data partnerships. 
  • Report progress, risks, and opportunities to the CTO/CEO. 
  • Provide thought leadership on data governance, digital identity, and AML/KYC frameworks. 

WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR IN A CANDIDATE?

  • Proven and demonstrable regulatory and supplier network, with established relationships across government, regulators, and commercial data providers. 
  • Significant experience in AML/KYC, regulatory affairs, or strategic partnerships. 
  • Strong knowledge of UK data governance, digital identity, and financial crime regulations. 
  • Exceptional negotiation and stakeholder management skills. 
  • Track record in strategic planning and supplier governance. 

WHAT IS LIFE LIKE AT SMARTSEARCH?

  • We are a multi-award winning Tech company with an aspirational mentality

  • Some of our most recent recognitions include: named in the renowned RegTech100 list for 2024, listed in the Top 100 Fasted Growing Tech Companies by Northern Tech Awards 2024 as well as being named Technology Provider of the Year by Corporate Finance Awards 2024

  • We have been Great Place To Work Certified since 2022

  • There are excellent progression opportunities due to our growth and you will have personal development goals, regular feedback and support

  • We are a diverse and inclusive team committed to promoting Diversity & Inclusion and Social Responsibility. Through our DE&I group, charitable initiatives and support for local schools, we actively foster a positive Impact on our community

COMPANY BENEFITS

Our comprehensive benefit package includes:

  • 25 days holiday rising to 30 with each year of service.

  • Private Medical Insurance covering dental and optical.

  • Company pension scheme.

  • Life Assurance – 4x your annual salary.

  • 1 day paid volunteering per year.

  • Enhanced maternity / paternity offerings.

  • Employee Assistance Programme.

  • Cycle to work scheme.

  • On site gym.

Apply for this role

You want to work with us? Great! Apply now by contacting us directly at recruitment@smartsearch.com