Compliance Assistant / Compliance Officer – Full Time | Donnington Priory, Newbury

Job Summary
We are seeking a highly organised and diligent individual to join our Compliance team as a Compliance Assistant. The successful candidate will support the implementation and monitoring of compliance policies, with a particular focus on customer due diligence, antimoney laundering (AML) regulations, and import/export compliance and support post-sale client services. This role is key in ensuring that the company operates within regulatory frameworks while maintaining the highest professional and ethical standards and an exceptional client experience.

As a busy auction house specialising in fine art, antiques, and wines, Dreweatts 1759 requires this role to be focused on the sector's specific regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

Customer Due Diligence (CDD) & AML

• Anti-money laundering compliance will account for the largest share of the role’s activities.
• Conduct client due diligence checks on bidders, buyers, and sellers in line with the auction calendar.
• Carry out customer risk assessments, including sanctions and PEP screenings, evaluating transaction red flags and escalating cases when required.
• Conduct pre-sale reviews identifying gaps necessary customer account information (sale contracts, bank details)
• Maintain and administer Know Your Customer (KYC) compliance files.
• Respond to compliance queries from the business and perform background checks on clients as requested.
• Conduct periodic KYC and AML file audits, with the support of the Risk and Compliance Controller.

Sector Specific Regulations

• Over time, familiarise yourself with relevant UK and overseas laws and regulations applicable to art and antiques sector, including trade restrictions, endangered species, cultural property regulations and customs requirements.
• Assist the departments in obtaining CITES certificates and export licences.
• Respond to internal and external queries relating to the company’s import/export protocols.
• Over time, familiarise yourself with relevant UK and overseas laws and regulations applicable to art and antiques sector, including trade restrictions, endangered species, cultural property regulations and customs requirements.
• Assist the departments in obtaining CITES certificates and export licences.
• Respond to internal and external queries relating to the company’s import/export protocols.

Client Services

• Assist Client Services with VIP buyers post sale payments and shipping
• Work with Client Services with pre-sale assistance for VIP clients including registration, bidding, obtaining transport and shipping quotes
• Support the management of compliance and client service-related projects (e.g., IT initiatives, reporting).
• Provide general administrative support to salerooms, including bidder registrations and phone bidding.

Expectations During Employment

• Demonstrate commitment to continuous learning, including attending relevant training on AML, cultural goods regulations, and sector-specific compliance requirements.
• Develop proficiency in IT systems, internal processes, and Microsoft Office applications.
• Demonstrate excellent client management skills.
• Communicate confidently and tactfully with colleagues, clients, and external stakeholders, maintaining professionalism at all times.
• Handle sensitive enquiries with discretion, demonstrating confidentiality and professional credibility.
• Conduct thorough research with excellent attention to detail.
• Work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.

Skills & Qualifications

• Previous compliance, legal, or risk management experience preferred (experience level will determine whether the role is offered as Assistant or Officer).
• Strong understanding of AML, CDD, and sanctions processes (training can be provided).
• Excellent organisational and research skills with strong attention to detail.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to manage sensitive queries with tact.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and willingness to learn sector-specific systems.

Additional Information

This job description is not exhaustive. The role will require flexibility to contribute to other duties and team efforts as reasonably required by the company.

Please send your CV and a cover letter to Mandy Dooley | email: mdooley@dreweatts.com.

Closing date: Friday 28 November