UK Sell-Side Compliance and Financial Crime Market Update, Insights on Hiring Trends

In 2024, within the Global Banking Groups, we observed less movement at the senior end of the Compliance and Financial Crime market. Many of the large Banking Groups continue to place considerable focus on cost control, which in real terms has resulted in efforts to reduce seniority within their functions. Essentially, firms have been replacing Managing Directors (MDs) with Executive Directors (Eds), and EDs with Vice Presidents (VPs), wherever possible.

As a result, at the VP level and below, we have seen continued high turnover across all areas of Compliance and Financial Crime. Base salaries for these candidates have continued to rise as larger Banking Groups compete with smaller Banking Groups, Buy-Side firms, and FinTechs for junior to mid-level talent.

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2025 UK Compliance & Financial Crime Compensation Report

Turnover across the sector remains high, and with bonuses predicted to remain stagnant, we expect that employees who have remained loyal to their employers will actively start pursuing new opportunities in 2025, as their compensation has stagnated.

Outside of the Global Banking Groups, the Brokerage space remains highly active due to continued regulatory scrutiny. We predict that 2025 will see firms in this space looking to enhance their Financial Crime and Surveillance functions, particularly in light of growing compliance requirements.

For tailored solutions to your hiring needs in this dynamic market, contact Denis today. His expertise and insights can guide you through navigating the current landscape and securing the right talent for your team.

Denis Spearman, Managing Director, EMEA Head of Compliance & Financial Crime Practice.
E: dspearman@thedanosgroup.com
T: +44 (0) 20 7371 8332

Click Here to Download the
2025 UK Compliance & Financial Crime Compensation Report