Ugochinyere Ukawoko

I am a highly experienced AML and Compliance professional with over 15 years’ experience within regulated banking environments, specialising in financial crime risk oversight, CDD/EDD review and sign-off, sanctions escalation, and regulatory governance support. I bring a structured, risk-based approach to compliance, combining deep operational knowledge with audit and control testing expertise to ensure robust, defensible regulatory outcomes.

Throughout my career, I have supported senior leadership and MLRO functions in strengthening AML frameworks, reviewing complex and high-risk cases, and embedding effective escalation and reporting processes aligned with UK regulatory requirements. My background includes transaction monitoring oversight, Financial Crime risk assessments, remediation tracking, and policy review within evolving FCA-aligned environments.

As a Chartered Accountant (ACA) and Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), I combine strong technical financial analysis with regulatory judgement, enabling me to assess complex client structures, source of funds, and emerging financial crime risks with clarity and confidence. I am committed to upholding governance standards, maintaining regulatory integrity, and contributing meaningfully to a culture of compliance and accountability.

I am an experienced AML and Compliance professional with over 15 years’ experience within regulated banking environments, specialising in financial crime risk assessment, CDD/EDD review and approval, sanctions and PEP screening, transaction monitoring, and MLRO support. I have led KYC onboarding operations, reviewed high-risk corporate structures, managed escalations, and supported regulatory reporting and policy review aligned with UK FCA requirements. My background in audit and control testing strengthens my ability to assess governance frameworks, identify compliance gaps, and oversee remediation actions. ACA and Certified Fraud Examiner with a strong commitment to regulatory integrity and risk-based decision making.

I hold a Master’s degree in International Business & Management from the University of Dundee and a Bachelor’s degree in Banking & Finance. I am an Associate Chartered Accountant (ACA) and a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), with CIMA final stage in progress. My academic and professional qualifications provide a strong foundation in financial analysis, governance, risk management, and regulatory compliance within regulated financial environments.