Job Description
Position:Chief Compliance Officer
Company:Ecobank Lesotho
Location:Thaba-Tseka, Lesotho
Experience:10+ years in compliance, risk management, regulatory affairs
Education:Bachelor’s degree in Law, Finance, or related field; Master’s preferred
Employment Type:Full-time
Industry:Financial Services
Department:Compliance & Risk Management
Salary:SSP 800,000 – 1,200,000 per annum
Vacancies:1
Company Overview
Ecobank Lesotho is a leading pan-African banking institution delivering innovative financial solutions across the continent. With a strong commitment to financial inclusion, Ecobank supports individuals, SMEs, and large corporations in achieving their economic goals. The bank operates a network of branches and digital platforms, fostering growth in both urban and rural communities. As part of the Ecobank Group, the Lesotho subsidiary benefits from extensive regional expertise, robust risk frameworks, and a culture that values integrity, customer focus, and sustainable development. The Thaba‑Tseka branch serves as a strategic hub for expanding banking services into the highlands, offering a unique opportunity for professionals seeking to make a meaningful impact in a dynamic environment.
Job Overview
The Chief Compliance Officer (CCO) will lead the development, implementation, and monitoring of the bank’s compliance program, ensuring adherence to local and international regulations, including anti‑money laundering (AML), counter‑terrorist financing (CTF), and consumer protection standards. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, the CCO will act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, providing strategic guidance on regulatory changes, risk mitigation, and ethical business practices. This role is pivotal in safeguarding the bank’s reputation, maintaining regulatory goodwill, and supporting sustainable growth across Lesotho.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, implement, and continuously improve the bank’s compliance framework in line with the Central Bank of Lesotho and international best practices.
- Conduct regular risk assessments, audits, and monitoring activities to identify potential compliance gaps.
- Lead AML/CTF investigations, prepare suspicious activity reports, and liaise with regulatory authorities.
- Develop and deliver comprehensive compliance training programs for all staff levels.
- Advise senior management on regulatory developments and recommend actionable policy updates.
- Maintain up‑to‑date compliance documentation, policies, and procedures.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for regulatory examinations and inspections.
Required Skills
- Deep knowledge of Lesotho banking regulations, AML/CTF laws, and international compliance standards (e.g., Basel III, FATF).
- Strong analytical and investigative abilities with a detail‑orientated mindset.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Proven leadership experience in building and guiding compliance teams.
- Ability to interpret complex legal texts and translate them into practical policies.
- High ethical standards and a commitment to integrity.
- Proficiency with compliance monitoring software and data analytics tools.
Education
A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Law, Finance, Business Administration, or a related discipline is required. A Master’s degree or professional certifications such as Certified Anti‑Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) or Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP) are highly desirable.
Experience
Applicants must have at least ten years of progressive experience in compliance, risk management, or regulatory affairs within the banking or financial services sector. Prior experience in a senior compliance leadership role, preferably within an African banking environment, is essential.
Salary
The compensation package ranges from SSP 800,000 to SSP 1,200,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The package includes performance‑based bonuses, health insurance, pension contributions, and other statutory benefits.
Benefits
- Competitive base salary with annual performance bonus.
- Comprehensive health and medical coverage.
- Pension scheme with employer contributions.
- Paid annual leave and public holidays.
- Professional development allowance.
- Employee assistance program.
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Training
- Onboarding program covering bank policies, systems, and regulatory landscape.
- Continuous AML/CTF certification courses.
- Leadership and management workshops.
- Access to industry conferences and seminars.
- Mentorship from senior executives within the Ecobank Group.
Working Environment
The role is based at the Thaba‑Tseka branch headquarters, offering a modern office setting equipped with state‑of‑the‑art technology. The bank promotes a collaborative culture where cross‑functional teams work together to deliver innovative financial solutions. Flexible working arrangements and a supportive leadership team foster work‑life balance and professional growth.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience through the online portal on the Ecobank Lesotho careers page. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for a multi‑stage interview process, including a technical assessment and a final interview with senior management.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Ecobank Lesotho is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, race, religion, age, disability, or sexual orientation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination.