The Financial Investigation Agency (FIA) is an autonomous law enforcement agency which is responsible for receiving, analysing, investigating and disseminating information relating to financial offences including money laundering and terrorist financing. In addition, the Agency is responsible for supervising and monitoring non-profit organisations (NPOs) and designated non-financial businesses and professions (DNFBPs) in the Territory in accordance with the Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Code of Practice 2008, as amended.
The FIA is seeking qualified candidates to fill the cross-functional role of Legal Counsel. The duties of Legal Counsel will extend beyond traditional legal work, as Counsel will also be engaged in technical work, as needed, to advance the mandate of the Agency.
Job Responsibilities:
- Provide legal advice to the Agency on matters arising under the Financial Investigation Act, 2003, as amended,; the Proceeds of Criminal Conduct Act, 1997, as amended; Proliferation Financing (Prohibition) Act, 2021, Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Code of Practice, 2008, as amended; Anti-Money Laundering Regulations, 2008, as amended; Criminal Justice (International Co-Operation) Act, 1993, as amended; Mutual Legal Assistance (United States of America) Act, 1990; Anti-terrorism (Financial and Other Measures) (Overseas Territories) Orders 2002; Counter-Terrorism Act, 2021, as amended; The Non-Profit Organizations Act 2012, as amended; and any other enactment relevant to the Agency’s functions.
- Provide legal insight and advice on Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) submitted by reporting entities to strengthen the Agency’s output regarding SARs;
- Provide support in the development, implementation, and oversight of supervision programs to ensure adherence to relevant Anti-money Laundering and Counter Financing of Terrorism and Proliferation of Financing laws and regulations;
- Conduct periodic audits to assess the Agency’s compliance with legal requirements and recommend corrective actions;
- Advise and assist the Agency in drafting Anti-money Laundering and Counter Financing of Terrorism and Proliferation of Financing framework and guidelines;
- Provide drafting instructions for amending legislation particularly relating to money laundering, terrorist financing and other financial crimes;
- Advise and represent the Agency in civil proceedings;
- Draft and negotiate all legal documents that touch and concern the Agency, including Agreements, leases, licences and Memoranda of Understanding;
- Assist in the drafting of any other documents that touch and concern the Agency, including policies, procedures, guidance notes;
- Provide training sessions to agency staff on legal and compliance matters to enhance their understanding and adherence to relevant laws and regulations;
- Identify legal and compliance risks associated with the Agency’s activities and work with leadership to develop risk mitigation strategies;
- Provide legal and technical support on the implementation of the Financial Action Task Force Standards.
Qualifications/Experience:
- Bachelor of Laws Degree from a recognised University;
- Eligibility for admission to practice in the British Virgin Islands as a barrister;
- A minimum of 3-5 years post-qualification experience, preferably within a financial crimes law enforcement environment or the financial services sector.
Skills/Abilities:
- Knowledge of substantive legal principles primarily in financial crime enforcement and financial services;
- Working knowledge of the financial services industry and related businesses;
- Strong understanding of Anti-Money Laundering (AML), Counter-Terrorist Financing (CTF) and Counter-Proliferation Financing (CPF) regulations;
- Knowledge of administrative law principles;
- Strong legal research skills;
- Ability to draft reports and make recommendations concisely;
- Excellent analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills;
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines;
- Ability to handle sensitive and confidential matters and to exercise tact and professionalism at all times;
- Proven ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
Salary and Benefits:
$52,000 - $102,000, commensurate with qualifications.
Compensation and benefits package also includes reimbursement of employee NHI premium, gym membership allowance, 15% contribution towards pension, employer paid term life insurance at 5x salary (subject to underwriting) and attractive vacation leave accrual.
Cover letter and resume should be submitted in writing and addressed to:
Human Resources Manager
Financial Investigation Agency
2nd Floor, Ritter House
Wickhams Cay II
PO Box 4090
Road Town, Tortola
Or by email to [email protected]
Closing date: 20 January 2024