Paarl - JSE Risk and Compliance Officer | Westlake

Reporting to the COO, the JSE Risk and Compliance Officer is responsible for ensuring that the company complies with relevant legislation, including JSE and A2X Exchange Rules and Directives. The role also involves supporting the Board in maintaining adherence to internal policies and procedures, overseeing regulatory compliance, and managing risks across trading activities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Real-time monitoring of trading activities across asset classes to ensure compliance, detect irregularities, and manage risks.
• Monitor daily CAPAD trading limits and handle monthly submissions to the JSE.
• Oversee onboarding and offboarding of access to trading and back-office systems to ensure compliance.
• Conduct daily reviews to identify misdeals, outstanding allocations, faulty payments, and incorrect journals, reporting any exceptions.
• Perform compliance and AML reviews in the stockbroking division, adhering to compliance programs and timelines.
• Analyse the root causes of potential breaches and recommend preventative measures.
• Report on business risks and compliance matters to the Board and Executive Committee.
• Escalate issues of non-compliance and manage incident reporting to senior management.
• Communicate relevant JSE market notices and directives to staff.
• Foster relationships with exchanges and regulatory bodies.
• Collaborate closely with Group Legal, Risk, and Compliance teams to maintain an updated and effective compliance program.
• Promote a culture of compliance within the business through strong relationships with internal stakeholders.
• Ensure policies are regularly updated and properly communicated to staff.
• Review client and supplier accounts for FICA compliance.
• Develop, document, and improve business processes.
• Liaise with regulators and coordinate regulatory engagements, including site visits.
• Participate in BCP (Business Continuity Planning) testing and stay informed about legislative changes.
• Provide regulatory guidance to the business, responding to compliance-related queries.
• Investigate, track, and report compliance breaches while coordinating internal and regulatory reporting obligations.

Experience:

• Approximately 7 years of experience in a similar role within financial services, with exposure to the full compliance function in a stockbroking firm.
• Strong understanding of financial instruments such as fixed income and derivatives, as well as knowledge of FAIS monitoring.
• Familiarity with stockbroking operations, both local and international settlements, and the relevant legislation (e.g., FICA, POCA).
• Proficiency in MS Office, particularly Excel, is essential.

Qualifications:

• BCom, B.Compt, BSc, LLB, FRM, or an equivalent qualification is required.
• Completion of JSE Equities and Derivatives Compliance Officer exams and SAIFM RPE exams in relevant areas.

Key Competencies:

• Analytical skills, with the ability to gather, research, and process data effectively.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to provide timely, practical solutions.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Team-oriented with a positive attitude, balancing individual responsibilities with team success.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Quality-driven with a focus on continuous improvement and attention to detail.