Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) - Kenya

About VALR

VALR is a global cryptocurrency exchange established in 2018, with headquarters in Johannesburg and recognition from major investors such as Pantera Capital and Coinbase Ventures. The platform caters to over 1.7 million individual users and 2,000 corporate clients, providing a wide range of services including spot trading, margin, perpetual futures, staking, lending, and payment solutions. With a vision to foster an inclusive and just financial ecosystem worldwide, VALR operates under licenses and regulatory approvals in South Africa and Europe, aiming to make advanced financial technologies accessible to all.

Role Overview

The Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) for Kenya oversees the development, maintenance, and implementation of compliance frameworks related to anti-money laundering, counter-terrorism, and counter-proliferation of finance (AML/CTF/CPF). This person ensures that the company’s activities adhere to all relevant Kenyan laws and international standards, working closely with regulatory authorities and company leadership to mitigate financial crime risks, promote compliance, and contribute to a trustworthy operation in the rapidly evolving crypto and financial services sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Create and continuously improve AML/CTF/CPF policies in compliance with national and international statutes, including the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act (POCAMLA), the Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA), and guidance from the Financial Reporting Centre (FRC).
• File necessary reports, such as Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) and Cash Transaction Reports (CTRs), within legal deadlines to Kenyan authorities.
• Work collaboratively with management and teams to ensure internal controls and systems support full AML/CTF/CPF compliance.
• Act as the focal point for communication with regulatory bodies regarding compliance matters and data requests.
• Maintain comprehensive records of all compliance-related reports and decisions, ensuring transparency and regulatory readiness.
• Lead investigations into internal and external suspicious activities, reporting findings as required.
• Organize, deliver, and track training programs for staff to ensure ongoing AML/CTF/CPF awareness and preparedness.
• Provide regular updates to company leadership, including the board and compliance officers, on emerging financial crime risks and control gaps.
• Coordinate with legal, risk, and operations teams to continually enhance control measures over financial crime threats.
• Advise management on compliance risks and support the implementation of remedial steps as necessary.
• Fulfill any mandated or ad hoc compliance duties requested by management or required by law.

Required Experience & Qualifications

• At least 5 years of demonstrated experience in AML/CTF/CPF management, including prior MLRO responsibilities, ideally in financial services or cryptocurrencies.
• In-depth familiarity with Kenyan regulations pertaining to AML/CTF/CPF activities, including working knowledge of POCAMLA, POTA, FRC guidelines, and sector-specific directives from the Central Bank of Kenya.
• Background in financial institutions, crypto service providers, or payment service providers is advantageous.
• Practical experience with tools such as GoAML and Chainalysis or similar transaction monitoring or cryptocurrency tracing solutions is a benefit.
• Must possess Kenyan citizenship, permanent residency, or otherwise have legal work authorization in Kenya.
• Strong analytical and hands-on compliance management capabilities with a pragmatic approach to risk mitigation.
• Genuine enthusiasm for cryptocurrency, alternative finance, and up-to-date comprehension of industry shifts and challenges.

Benefits & Work Environment

• Be part of a pioneering team on the cutting edge of blockchain and crypto-finance.
• Flexible workspace with robust technological and logistical support.
• Annual allowance for professional development, ongoing educational programs, and career growth opportunities.
• Competitive pay structure with discretionary bonuses in recognition of exceptional performance.
• Exclusive trading fee discounts and incentives on the VALR platform.
• Commitment to diversity, inclusion, and holistic employee wellbeing—including flexible and statutory leave policies and wellness initiatives.
• Opportunities to engage in financial education and awareness programs relating to cryptocurrencies.
• Team culture centered on open communication, regular social gatherings, global exposure, and recognition of achievements.
• Retreats and off-site events for professional and personal development.
• Technology package includes a Mac laptop and home office setup allowance (ownership after three years, subject to terms).