Head of KYC Operations - EMEA

Location: Global

Team: General

About the Role

Wise is a global technology company revolutionizing how the world moves and manages money with min fees, max ease, and full speed. As Head of KYC Operations - EMEA, you'll lead our KYC Operations Function to deliver compliant, instant, best-in-class service at scale. Partnering closely with Product and Compliance, you'll drive strategic direction, operational excellence, and high performance across 150+ team members in multiple locations, while serving as the onsite lead in our Budapest office to champion Wise culture. In this pivotal role, you'll set objectives, build inclusive high-performing teams, leverage analytics for data-driven decisions, and ensure alignment with business goals in a fast-paced fintech environment. With 10+ years in operations (ideally KYC/AML) and 8+ years leading large teams, plus strong regulatory expertise and communication skills, you'll thrive in ensuring Wise's mission of money without borders for everyone, everywhere. Join our diverse, international team in Budapest with a competitive salary of 2M HUF/month + RSU, extensive development opportunities, and a vibrant office. Be part of building the future of global finance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead KYC Operations Function for EMEA to ensure compliance, instant service, and best-in-class quality
• Set and execute strategic objectives in a scalable, cost-efficient manner
• Build and lead high-performing teams of Area Leads and 150+ employees across multiple locations
• Oversee operational and quality targets, aligning with business goals
• Partner with Wise Product and Compliance teams
• Act as onsite lead for Budapest office, embedding Wise culture
• Drive data-driven decision-making using analytics tools
• Identify process gaps and provide recommendations

Required Qualifications

• Extensive experience (10+ years) in Operations, preferably KYC/AML, financial crime, compliance, or related fields in financial services
• Demonstrated leadership experience (8+ years) leading and mentoring large teams (150+ employees)
• In-depth expertise in KYC/AML regulatory environment and evolving frameworks
• Proficiency in advanced analytics tools (Looker, Superset or equivalent)
• Exceptional verbal and written English communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency in additional languages
• Experience in multi-location operations (internal and outsourced)
• Proven track record in Budapest or EMEA operations
• Experience in fintech or global technology companies

Required Skills

• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills
• Strategic thinking and data-driven decision-making
• Leadership and team-building
• Regulatory knowledge (KYC/AML)
• Analytics proficiency (Looker, Superset)
• Time management in fast-paced environments
• Multi-tasking and accountability
• Proactive initiative and punctuality
• Cross-functional collaboration
• Process improvement and feedback

Benefits

• Starting salary: 2.000.000 HUF/gross/month + RSU
• Attractive benefit package
• Extensive training and self-development opportunities
• International environment
• Beautiful office space in Budapest center
• Flexible working
• Diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives

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