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