Head of Compliance - SCF Branch Portugal

Country: Portugal

IT STARTS HERE

Santander (www.santander.com) is evolving from a global, high-impact brand into a technology-driven organization, and our people are at the heart of this journey. Together, we are driving a customer-centric transformation that values bold thinking, innovation, and the courage to challenge what’s possible.

This is more than a strategic shift. It’s a chance for driven professionals to grow, learn, and make a real difference.

Our mission is to contribute to help more people and businesses prosper. We embrace a strong risk culture and all our professionals at all levels are expected to take a proactive and responsible approach toward risk management.

Santander Consumer Finance focuses on business development related to consumer finance products, sales channels and commercial agreements with dealers, vehicle manufacturers or retail distribution establishments, as well as commercial functions associated with direct sales (branches, call centers or digital channels) and indirect sales (through third parties) of consumer finance products.

THE DIFFERENCE YOU MAKE

Santander Consumer Finance, S.A. branch in Portugal is looking for a Head of  Compliance based out of Lisboa (Portugal).  

As the Head of Compliance you will oversee all compliance and antimony laundering matters of the branch, ensuring alignment with corporate strategy and adherence to Portuguese & European laws and regulations.  This role requires a strategic leadership with in-depth legal expertise and a strong understanding of compliance and regulatory frameworks in Portugal and Europe. Key Responsibilities:

We’re shaping the way we work through innovation, cutting-edge technology, collaboration and the freedom to explore new ideas. To succeed in this role, you will be responsible for:

Compliance oversight:

• Monitor regulatory changes, advise senior management and reporting the compliance issues (including AML topics).
• Develop and implement the bank’s compliance program, including policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• Ensure compliance with European and local financial regulations, such as GDPR, AMLD, Consumer Credit and other applicable laws.

Team Leadership and coordination:

• Acts as the primary liaison with regulatory authorities, managing inquiries and maintaining the relation with them.
• Ensure compliance with European and local financial regulations, such as GDPR, AMLD, Consumer Credit and other applicable laws.

WHAT YOU’LL BRING

Our people are our greatest strength. Every individual contributes unique perspectives that make us stronger as a team and as an organization. We’re enabling teams to go beyond by valuing who they are and empowering what they bring.

The following requirements represent the knowledge, skills, and abilities essential for success in this role. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Professional Experience

• At least 7-9 years of experience in legal and compliance roles, including at least 2 in a leadership position within a financial entity or law firm (Required)

Education

• University degree, preferably in Law, Business Administration, Economics, or related fields.
• Additional training in financial regulation, compliance, or risk management will be considered a plus (Preferred)

Languages

• Portuguese and English (Required)
• Spanish (Preferred)

Hard Skills

• Knowledge of banking regulations and compliance requirements (Required)
• Ability to work independently and as leader of an international team (Preferred)

Soft Skills

• Excellent leadership and team management abilities
• Strong negotiation, analytical and problem-solving skills
• Effective communication skills with the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
• Adaptable and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment

We’re here to keep you motivated, help you reach your goals, and celebrate your progress, every step of the way.

LOCAL COMPLIANCE

Santander is proud of being an organization where there are equal opportunities regardless of age, gender, disability, civil status, race, religion or sexual orientation. We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible application process for all candidates.

WHAT TO DO NEXT

If this sounds like a role you are interested in, then please apply.
 

READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP IN YOUR JOURNEY?