About Us

KBC Bank Singapore provides commercial banking services to companies in Singapore. As part of the KBC Group headquartered in Brussels, we leverage our expertise and resources to deliver value-added solutions to clients through KBC's market-leading networks across Belgium and Central Europe.

Our commercial banking unit in Singapore specializes in managing KBC Group relationships both within and outside Belgium and Central & Eastern Europe (CEE). We also offer a specialized platform for companies in Singapore conducting business with Belgium and CEE.

The Role

We are seeking a highly experienced and credible Compliance Manager to assume the role of Head of Compliance, Asia Pacific. This role reports to APAC General Manager and functionally to KBC Group Compliance.

The role combines independent regulatory oversight, regional leadership, and strategic advisory, ensuring that the Bank operates in full compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and Group standards while supporting sustainable business growth.

Responsibilities

Regulatory Oversight & Governance

Act as the Regional Head of Compliance for APAC, with functional oversight across all regional locations
Ensure independent oversight as a Second Line of Defence, maintaining objectivity and integrity in all compliance assessments and also able to manage andperform the role as a First Line of Defence
Provide effective challenge to senior management and business teams on regulatory and compliance risk matters
Ensure full alignment with Group Compliance policies, standards, and governance frameworks

Regulatory Engagement

Serve as the primary point of contact with regulators (including MAS, HKMA and other relevant authorities)
Lead and manage regulatory inspections, thematic reviews, and supervisory engagement
Oversee timely and robust responses to regulatory queries and findings

Advisory & Risk Management

Provide proactive and pragmatic regulatory advice to the business and senior management
Monitor, interpret, and communicate regulatory developments across APAC
Ensure effective management of key compliance risks, including:
AML / CFT Sanctions Customer Due Diligence Conduct and regulatory risk

Leadership &Regional Management

Lead and develop a high-performing regional compliance team
Drive consistency and alignment of compliance frameworks and practices across APAC
Foster a strong risk and compliance culture across the Organisation

Governance &Reporting

Accountable for the overall effectiveness of the Compliance function across APAC

Provide regular reporting to senior management and governance committees on compliance risks, incidents, and developments
Escalate material issues in a timely and transparent manner
Oversee compliance input into strategic initiatives, new business, and product approvals

Transformation& Continuous Improvement

Drive ongoing enhancement of compliance processes, policies, and controls
Lead gap analyses, remediation programs, and regulatory-driven change initiatives
Promote efficiency and effectiveness in compliance frameworks while maintaining robust control standards

Candidate Profile

12-15+ years of experience in regulatory compliance within international banking, with significant exposure to APAC markets
Proven track record as a senior compliance leader, including regional or multi-jurisdictional responsibilities
Strong and demonstrable experience engaging with regulators at a senior level
Experience leading regulatory inspections, audits, and remediation programmes
Strong knowledge of MAS, HKMA, China regulatory frameworks, and international standards (AML/CFT, sanctions, etc.)
Demonstrated ability to operate with independence, integrity, and sound judgement, consistent with Fit & Proper expectations

Qualifications

University degree in Law, Finance, Business, or related discipline
Professional certifications (e.g. ACAMS, ICA or equivalent) are strongly preferred

Capabilities

Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills across cultures and organizational levels
Ability to balance business advisory with independent challenge and collaboration
Clear, authoritative communicator with strong written and verbal skills

Regional Head of Compliance