A growing global hedge fund is seeking a Head of Risk & Compliance to lead its regulatory, compliance, and risk management activities in Japan.
As the sole Risk and Compliance leader in Tokyo, you will be responsible for establishing and overseeing the firm's local governance framework, regulatory strategy, licensing initiatives, and risk management programs. This is a highly visible leadership role requiring close engagement with regulators, banking partners, payment system operators, and global stakeholders.
This opportunity is ideal for professionals with expertise in Risk Management, Compliance, Financial Services Regulation, Asset Management, Payments, Digital Assets, and Regulatory Affairs who are seeking a high-autonomy leadership position within a fast-growing international organization.
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as the primary Risk and Compliance leader for the firm's Japan operations.
- Develop and execute the local regulatory, compliance, and risk management strategy.
- Lead licensing and registration initiatives with Japanese regulatory authorities.
- Act as the key liaison with regulators, banking partners, and payment system operators.
- Monitor developments in Japanese financial services regulations and advise local and global stakeholders on regulatory implications.
- Establish and maintain robust governance, compliance, and risk management frameworks.
- Identify, assess, and mitigate operational, regulatory, and business risks.
- Design and deliver risk and compliance training programs to strengthen organizational awareness.
- Partner with global leadership teams to ensure alignment between local regulatory requirements and international business objectives.
- Support strategic business growth while maintaining a strong control environment.
Required Skills and Qualifications
Experience:
- 5+ years of Compliance experience within Japan's financial services industry.
- Experience within payments, financial operations, asset management, banking, fintech, or related sectors.
- Experience managing regulatory relationships and compliance programs.
- Strong understanding of Japanese financial regulations and compliance requirements.
- Experience developing and implementing risk management frameworks.
- Experience operating independently in a highly autonomous environment.
Soft Skills:
- Strong ability to work independently and take ownership of critical functions.
- Excellent stakeholder management and relationship-building capabilities.
- Strong judgment and decision-making skills.
- Ability to balance strategic regulatory matters with day-to-day operational responsibilities.
- Resilient, entrepreneurial mindset with a hands-on approach.
- Strong communication and influencing skills.
Language Requirements:
- Japanese: Native level.
- English: Business level.
Preferred Skills & Qualifications
- Experience obtaining or supporting FSA Type 1 Fund Transfer Operator Licensing.
- Experience with Zengin clearing system applications.
- Established network and relationships with Japanese banks and financial institutions.
- Knowledge of Japanese securities regulations, asset management regulations, FX regulations, and digital asset regulations.
- Experience working within hedge funds, asset managers, fintech companies, or financial institutions.
- Experience interacting directly with the Japan FSA and Kanto Local Finance Bureau.
About the Company
Our client is a rapidly growing global hedge fund that leverages proprietary algorithmic technology and innovative investment strategies.
The organization operates within a highly entrepreneurial and international environment, offering employees the opportunity to work closely with senior leadership while helping shape the future growth of the business. The firm is expanding its presence in Japan and is seeking a senior compliance professional to establish and lead its local risk and compliance framework.
Why You'll Love Working Here
- Opportunity to build and lead the entire Japan Risk & Compliance function.
- High degree of autonomy and direct influence over regulatory strategy.
- Exposure to cutting-edge financial technologies and innovative investment strategies.
- Direct engagement with regulators, banks, and senior global stakeholders.
- Entrepreneurial and fast-paced working environment.
- Flexible working hours and hybrid work arrangements.
- Opportunity to act as the key bridge between Japan and international leadership teams.
- Significant long-term career growth potential within a growing global organization.
Don't Miss Out - Apply Now!
