Compliance Senior Manager - Japan

Location: Global

Team: General

About the Role

Wise is pioneering the future of global money movement, and we're seeking a Compliance Senior Manager for Japan to ensure our innovative products and Wise Platform partnerships thrive under regulatory scrutiny. Based in Tokyo, you'll safeguard our local licences, build trust with regulators like KLFB and FSA, and provide expert advisory to multidisciplinary teams across APAC, Estonia, and London. Your role will be pivotal in navigating new regulations, overseeing financial crime controls, and defending our compliance program externally to regulators and partners. You'll lead regulatory analysis, partner approvals, and compliance monitoring while fostering a risk-based culture that aligns with Wise's mission of money without borders. Collaborate closely with Product, Banking, and Operations to launch compliant services, educate global teams on Japanese requirements, and drive efficiency in our risk management. This is an opportunity to own high-impact projects, influence product development, and contribute to Wise's growth in Japan and beyond, all while enjoying the dynamic environment of a mission-driven fintech leader.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain Japan licences through regulatory reporting, liaison, and leading audits
• Build and strengthen relationships with regulators like KLFB and FSA
• Conduct regulatory horizon scanning, impact assessments, and advise on updates
• Review and approve Wise Platform partners and oversee partner risks
• Provide compliance advisory to Wise Platform, Product, and Banking teams
• Develop and maintain compliance frameworks, monitoring systems, and assurance activities
• Scrutinise compliance programs, test controls, and resolve audit findings
• Collaborate with global teams to educate on Japanese regulations and support projects

Required Qualifications

• Extensive experience in compliance, risk management, or regulatory affairs within the financial services sector in Japan
• Deep knowledge of Japanese financial regulations, including KLFB and FSA requirements
• Proven track record in managing regulatory relationships, reporting, and audits
• Strong understanding of financial crime controls and regulatory compliance frameworks
• Experience in advising product teams on regulatory impacts and driving implementation of changes

Preferred Qualifications

• Fluency in Japanese and English
• Background in fintech or payments industry
• Experience with Wise Platform or similar B2B payment infrastructure
• Prior leadership in multidisciplinary teams across APAC or global offices

Required Skills

• In-depth regulatory knowledge (Japan-specific)
• Regulatory liaison and communication
• Risk assessment and horizon scanning
• Compliance advisory and oversight
• Stakeholder management across functions
• Problem-solving and commercial foresight
• Audit management and quality assurance
• Framework development and monitoring
• Cross-border team collaboration
• Documentation and reporting excellence

Benefits

• RSUs (stock options)
• Flexible working
• Parental leave
• Learning budget
• Paid sabbatical after 4 years
• Health insurance
• Company retreat
• Wise card

Wise is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse workforce.