Role Overview

The Financial Compliance Associate supports the organization’s financial compliance and financial crime prevention efforts for a large social media platform. The role focuses on executing day‑to‑day compliance activities under clear guidance and established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

The Associate will assist with AML, Transaction monitoring, customer due diligence (CDD) and enhanced due diligence (EDD), while developing the skills needed to apply a risk‑based approach and make well‑supported and documented recommendations. This role is well‑suited to candidates who are adaptable to a fast-paced environment, strong analytical skills, ability to produce rational judgment, detail‑oriented, and comfortable working with data and technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct financial compliance reviews and investigations in line with AML, CTF, sanctions, and financial crime requirements
• Perform risk‑based assessments using explicit guidance, operational procedures, and defined frameworks
• Review, analyze, and interpret large volumes of transactional and behavioral data to identify potential financial crime or compliance risks
• Execute Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) and ongoing monitoring activities where higher risks are identified
• Initiate and manage Requests for Information (RFIs) to obtain additional documentation or clarification from internal stakeholders
• Document investigations clearly and comprehensively, ensuring outcomes are defensible, auditable, and evidence‑based
• Provide clear recommendations and escalation decisions based on analysis, findings, and applicable risk tolerance
• Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), internal controls, regulatory expectations, and industry best practices
• Utilize multiple internal and external systems, tools, and databases to support investigative and compliance activities
• Maintain high standards of confidentiality, data protection, and ethical conduct
• Follow quality, accuracy, and timeliness standards in all tasks.
• Escalate issues, uncertainties, or potential high‑risk cases in line with procedures
• Participate in training, coaching, and continuous learning to build knowledge of financial compliance and financial crime risks.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in finance, business, economics, law, criminology, data analysis, or a related field
• Entry‑level to 1–2 years of experience in compliance, risk, financial operations, investigations, or regulated environments (internships and training programs considered)
• Basic understanding of AML, financial crime, KYC/CDD, or regulatory compliance concepts
• Ability to follow structured processes and detailed operational procedures
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Fully proficient in English (Read, Write and Speak) at minimum B2 level
• Own a valid work permit to work in Portugal and/or European Union/Schengen Space Citizenship
• English CV.

Technical & System Skills

• Comfort working with technology and multiple systems
• Ability to quickly learn new tools, systems, and investigation platforms
• Basic to intermediate proficiency in Excel and productivity tools
• Willingness to work with data‑heavy environments and structured case tools

Key Competencies

• Analytical mindset with a willingness to learn
• Ability to assess information objectively and make defensible recommendations
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
• Collaborative approach with the ability to work independently when required
• High ethical standards and respect for confidentiality
• Risk‑aware mindset with strong attention to detail

Preferred (Nice to Have)

• Exposure to financial crime compliance, AML, or investigations
• Experience in a technology, fintech, payments, or platform‑based environment
• Familiarity with risk‑based decision frameworks
• Familiarity with global AML regulations and financial crime typologies
• Exposure to regulatory audits, quality assurance, or control testing

Career Development & Growth

This role provides a structured entry point into financial compliance, offering exposure to regulatory requirements, investigations, data analysis, and risk frameworks.

Why This Role Matters

As a Financial Compliance Associate, you help protect users, the platform, and the broader financial system by supporting efforts to detect and prevent financial crime while ensuring regulatory expectations are met.