Client Onboarding Officer - #2102929

We are recruiting a Client Onboarding Officer for our Belfast team. This is a critical operational role within the firm’s Risk function. You will be responsible for the end-to-end inception process, acting as a primary gatekeeper for the firm.

We are looking for a candidate who is already competent in both Conflicts of Interest and AML/CDD. The ideal candidate will demonstrate the ability to analyse complex corporate structures, identify regulatory risks, and apply judgment to maintain an excellent onboarding function.

Key Responsibilities

Conflicts Clearance

• Analyse complex conflict check results generated by the firm’s systems (Intapp), differentiating between administrative "false positives" and genuine legal or commercial conflicts.
• Investigate corporate relationships to determine if a conflict exists, utilizing internal databases and external corporate intelligence tools.
• Identify potential conflicts and escalate where necessary, liaising directly with stakeholders to resolve issues efficiently.
• Maintain clear and auditable records of all conflict clearance activity.

Client Due Diligence (CDD)

• Experience of detailed Due Diligence on high-risk clients, including unravelling complex ownership structures (Trusts, SPVs, Funds) to identify Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBOs).
• Advise on CDD requirements across multiple jurisdictions, tailoring guidance to local regulatory expectations.
• Perform risk assessments at client inception and during updates, identifying high-risk clients through screening and analysis.
• Investigate and assess adverse media, politically exposed persons (PEPs), and source of wealth/funds, preparing clear and concise reports for senior review.
• Collate all research and approvals in a structured and comprehensible manner for internal use.

Ad Hoc Support

• Respond to onboarding, billing, and file-opening queries from fee-earners, PAs, and business services teams.
• Assist the Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) with research for suspicious activity reports.

Key Skills & Experience

• Experience in both conflicts checking and anti-money laundering (AML) processes.
• Familiarity with a multi-jurisdictional legal environment
• Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to interpret and communicate findings clearly.
• Manage a high-volume workload independently, prioritizing urgent matter openings without compromising on regulatory accuracy.
• Confident communicator, comfortable engaging with stakeholders at all levels.
• Self-motivated and collaborative, with a willingness to take on both complex and routine tasks as needed.
• Experience using Intapp and screening platforms.

Who are we looking for?

• We don't have a type. We believe our differences are our strength; varied cultures, approaches and experience can only benefit us.

What do we offer?

• You can be yourself: It takes everyone to make us who we are. We’re a culture of diverse perspectives, with each of us making unique contributions that make us better together.
• In the office or WFH?: We think the best balance is more time in the office than at home, so we operate a 60:40 rule.
• Beyond salary: We offer plenty of benefits; private medical insurance, health cash plan, dental insurance, life assurance, critical illness insurance, matched pension contributions up to 7%, holiday trading, plus many more. Visit: Reward & Benefits ¦ Fieldfisher.
• Modern Office Space: Located on Adelaide Street in Belfast City Centre, with excellent commuter links and parking nearby.
• Nurturing your talent: Take a 'build a career' approach to your training. You'll be on a pathway but free to wander if you see something you'd like to study more closely.
• Funnel your interests: You have a life outside work, and we can help it to flourish. Join clubs, affinity networks, inclusive events, and pro bono/charity initiatives.

Inclusion at Fieldfisher

At Fieldfisher, inclusion is central to how we work. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels respected, supported and able to succeed.

If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process or once you join us, we will work with you to put the right support in place. Examples include extra time for assessments, accessible document formats, alternative interview formats, quiet rooms, or physical and technological accessibility support.