KYC / Due Diligence Officer

Job title : KYC / Due Diligence Officer

Job Overview

• The KYC Due Diligence Officer is responsible for ensuring that all customer onboarding and periodic reviews comply with regulatory requirements, internal policies, and international AML/CFT/CPF standards. 
• The role involves performing detailed due diligence checks on individuals and businesses, assessing risk profiles, and escalating high-risk cases for Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD).
• As part of the first line of defense against financial crime, the officer validates customer identity, verifies documentation, and ensures compliance with Know Your Customer (KYC), Customer Due Diligence (CDD), and EDD obligations. The role also provides advisory support to internal stakeholders, helping the business balance customer enablement with regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform KYC checks for new and existing customers, ensuring compliance with regulatory and internal requirements.
• Conduct due diligence reviews using internal systems, public databases, and third-party screening tools (e.g., PEP, sanctions, adverse media).
• Assess customer risk based on the nature of business, ownership structure, transaction behavior, and geographical exposure.
• Escalate high-risk and complex cases for Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) in line with AML/CFT policy.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation of customer records for regulatory inspections and audits.
• Work closely with Onboarding, Compliance, and Business Relationship Managers to identify and close KYC gaps.
• Track and monitor deferrals, ensuring timely collection of outstanding documents in line with compliance timelines.
• Contribute to policy reviews, process improvements, and system upgrades to strengthen KYC operations.
• Key Skills & Competencies:
• Strong knowledge of AML/CFT/CPF regulations, including CBN guidelines, NFIU/EFCC directives, and FATF standards.
• Practical experience with sanctions, PEP, and adverse media screening tools.
• Analytical skills with ability to interpret complex ownership structures and beneficial ownership risks.
• High attention to detail and accuracy in reviewing customer data and documents.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills (internal teams, regulators, auditors).
• Ability to balance regulatory compliance with business enablement.
• Strong organizational and record-keeping skills.
• Integrity and confidentiality in handling sensitive customer information.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Business Administration, Law, or related field.
• Certification in AML/KYC (e.g.,DCP, CAMS, ICA, or equivalent) is highly desirable.
• 2–3 years of experience in compliance, audit, KYC, or financial crime prevention (preferably in a financial institution).
• Familiarity with Nigerian regulatory compliance frameworks and global AML/CFT/CPF best practices is an advantage.