Ciaran Kearney
Belfast
Summary
Expert in KYC and CDD/EDD reviews with a strong focus on risk-based AML strategies. Proficient in Microsoft Excel, PEP sanctions, and adverse media screening. Experienced in complex entity and UBO analysis, transaction monitoring, and AML investigations, ensuring compliance with FCA JMLSG AMLD standards. Recognised for leadership in identifying and escalating SARs, dedicated to enhancing organizational compliance frameworks.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
11
11
years of post-secondary education
Work history
KYC Associate
FinTrU
Belfast
04.2025 - 01.2026
- Serving as a KYC Associate for UBS through FinTrU since May 2025, delivering comprehensive due diligence across diverse client portfolios.
- Managing complex cases from initial review to Quality Control, ensuring accuracy and regulatory compliance.
- Leading client outreach and liaising with global teams to maintain smooth case progression.
- Interpreting regulatory frameworks and applying UBS-specific KYC and AML policies.
- Reviewing and managing trust structures while refining documentation standards to meet internal and regulatory requirements.
KYC Analyst
First Derivatives
Belfast
04.2022 - 04.2025
- Conducted full KYC due diligence for personal and corporate clients across multiple risk levels for RBSI.
- Performed Event Driven Reviews (EDRs) and Periodic Processes (PPs) to maintain ongoing compliance.
- Managed tax data alignment tasks, including GIIN matching and regulatory documentation reviews.
- Completed Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) on high-risk clients, including PEPs and sensitive jurisdictions.
- Filed Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) where necessary and ensured adherence to AML standards.
- Previously investigated complex account exceptions at Ulster Bank (ROI) and supported AML teams in resolving compliance issues.
- Developed strong communication and client engagement skills through direct customer interaction.
ADValue Analyst (Business Operations)
PwC
Belfast
09.2021 - 04.2022
- I supported internal business operations by conducting comprehensive KYC processes, including CES searches and relationship assessments, to ensure client records remained accurate and up to date.
- I collaborated closely with the AML team to perform essential compliance checks and was responsible for organising and maintaining documentation—such as KYC, AML, AFS, and CES search results—within AODocs for streamlined client access and audit readiness.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Queen’s University Belfast
Belfast 09.2018 - 06.2021
Higher National Diploma - Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Belfast Metropolitan College
09.2016 - 06.2018
A-Levels - ICT, Psychology, Maths
Aquinas Diocesan Grammar School
Belfast 09.2008 - 06.2015
Skills
- KYC and CDD/EDD Reviews
- Risk Based Approach to AML
- Microsoft Excel (Intermediate)
- PEP Sanctions and Adverse Media Screen
- Complex Entity and UBO Analysis
- Transaction Monitoring and AML Investigations
- Regulatory Compliance FCA JMLSG AMLD
- SAR Identification and Escalation
- Leadership and Initiative
Timeline
KYC Associate
FinTrU
04.2025 - 01.2026
KYC Analyst
First Derivatives
04.2022 - 04.2025
ADValue Analyst (Business Operations)
PwC
09.2021 - 04.2022
Bachelor of Science - Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Queen’s University Belfast
09.2018 - 06.2021
Higher National Diploma - Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Belfast Metropolitan College
09.2016 - 06.2018
A-Levels - ICT, Psychology, Maths
Aquinas Diocesan Grammar School
09.2008 - 06.2015