Associate Lawyer – Financial Crime & Sanctions

Key Responsibilities

• Regulatory Advice: Guide clients in understanding and meeting their responsibilities concerning anti-money laundering, counter-terrorist financing, sanctions and wider financial crime controls.
• Compliance Documentation: Prepare, assess and update internal frameworks, operational processes, written guidance and formal legal advice relating to regulatory compliance.
• Regulatory Reviews: Assist organisations throughout supervisory inspections, corrective action programmes and communications with the relevant Maltese authorities.
• Legal Research: Track legislative, regulatory and supervisory changes in Malta and across the European Union concerning financial integrity, ownership transparency, sanctions and reporting requirements.
• Client Support: Work with a varied portfolio of regulated businesses, which may include banks, investment services providers, collective investment structures, corporate service firms and internal compliance functions.
• Practical Solutions: Analyse regulatory concerns and help clients introduce proportionate measures that address both their legal duties and operational realities.
• Team Collaboration: Coordinate closely with senior legal practitioners and colleagues while contributing effectively to client assignments and internal knowledge-sharing.

Qualifications, Skills and Attributes

• Education: A recognised law degree and the qualifications required to practise as a lawyer in Malta are expected. Further academic studies or professional credentials relating to compliance or financial services would be advantageous.
• Experience: Applications are welcomed from lawyers at different stages of their careers. Previous exposure to regulatory matters, financial services, sanctions, financial crime prevention or engagement with the MFSA or FIAU would be beneficial, although it is not essential.
• Regulatory Interest: A clear enthusiasm for developing expertise in financial crime prevention, sanctions compliance and regulatory advisory work is important.
• Language Skills: Excellent command of written and spoken English is required to succeed in this role. The ability to communicate in Maltese would be an asset.
• Communication Skills: The successful candidate should be capable of explaining technical legal requirements clearly and adapting advice to different professional audiences.
• Interpersonal Skills: A cooperative and approachable manner is required to build effective relationships with clients, regulatory stakeholders, senior practitioners and colleagues.
• Drafting and Research: Strong legal writing and research capabilities are necessary for producing accurate, structured and commercially relevant advice.
• Analytical Ability: Candidates should be able to evaluate detailed information, interpret regulatory requirements and reach well-reasoned conclusions.
• Attention to Detail: A careful approach and dependable professional judgement are essential when handling sensitive legal and compliance matters.
• Organisation: The ability to prioritise assignments, manage deadlines and maintain high standards across concurrent matters is required.
• Self-Motivated: A proactive attitude, willingness to learn and genuine commitment to professional development will support success in this position.
• Problem-Solving: The role requires a practical mindset and the ability to translate complex obligations into workable measures for clients.

What’s on Offer

• Compensation: A competitive remuneration package reflecting the candidate’s qualifications and experience, together with eligibility for a performance-related bonus.
• Working Hours: Flexible working arrangements are available, with reduced hours during the summer period.
• Professional Training: Ongoing learning opportunities will support the development of specialist legal and regulatory knowledge.
• Health Insurance: The successful candidate will benefit from private health insurance coverage.
• Wellness Programmes: Employee wellbeing initiatives are provided to support a healthy and balanced working experience.
• Employee Discounts: Access to selected staff discounts is included within the benefits package.
• Parking Allowance: Financial support towards parking expenses will be provided.
• Paid Study Leave: Approved study leave is available to assist employees pursuing relevant qualifications and professional development.
• Mobile Phone Allowance: A contribution towards mobile telephone expenses forms part of the employment package.
• Career Development: Clear opportunities for professional progression are available within a respected and established legal practice.