Case Study: Senior AML Onboarding Specialist

The Challenge

A regulated Payments Provider in Limassol needed to strengthen their First Line of Defence team with an experienced AML/KYC professional. The role required someone capable of handling complex high-risk client onboarding, conducting Enhanced Due Diligence, mentoring junior team members, and working closely with compliance on escalations and risk assessments. The company sought candidates with the right combination of payments industry experience, regulatory knowledge, and leadership potential.

The Search

Emerald Zebra leveraged its specialist network within the Cyprus payments and fintech compliance community. We targeted professionals with direct experience in EMIs, PSPs, and payment institutions—those who understood the nuances of KYC/KYB for high-risk clients and had hands-on experience with transaction monitoring and regulatory reporting. Our screening focused heavily on practical case-handling ability and cultural fit within a fast-paced, growing team.

The Solution

We identified a candidate with extensive First Line experience at a leading Cyprus-based payment institution. They brought strong technical knowledge of AML regulations, proven experience handling complex onboarding cases, and a collaborative approach that aligned with the company’s culture. Their background included real-time video verification processes, ODD/EDD reviews, and mentoring junior colleagues—exactly what the role demanded.

The Outcome

The candidate was hired within four weeks of the initial brief. They have since integrated well into the team, taking ownership of complex cases and contributing to process improvements within the onboarding function. The client has expressed strong satisfaction with both the quality of the hire and the efficiency of the search.

For Employers:

Struggling to find AML professionals who can hit the ground running? We specialise in compliance recruitment for payments and fintech. Get in touch to discuss your search.

Jobs@emeraldzebra.cy

For Candidates:

Looking for your next AML or KYC role in Cyprus? See what’s available at www.emeraldzebra.cy