Independent Non-Executive Director (iNED) – Financial Crime & Compliance Focus ¦ Luxembourg

Independent Non-Executive Director (iNED) – Financial Crime & Compliance Focus ¦ Luxembourg

Independent iNED oversight for AML/CFT/CPF and sanctions risk in Luxembourg – board‑level challenge, regulator‑ready governance, and CSSF/AED‑aligned compliance leadership.

Notice

The following information is provided for general informational purposes and does not form part of our editorial content. It relates to our professional services in Financial Crime.

The services described are provided byconcilio et labore GmbHconcilio et labore GmbH, which was founded by Bastian Schwind-Wagner. Bastian is a Certified Anti-Financial Crime Professional (CAFCP), a qualification validated by TU Dublin.

Overview

Board-level leadership and oversight in anti money laundering (AML), countering the financing of terrorism (CFT), countering proliferation financing (CPF), sanctions compliance and regulatory risk – tailored for Luxembourg financial institutions, management companies, AIFMs and investment funds within their regulatory landscape.

Why appoint an iNED with a financial crime & compliance focus?

As board members, iNEDs can strengthen resilience and mitigate risks effectively by enhancing risk management, due diligence, transparency, and strong governance practices.

  • Regulatory expectation: Luxembourg regulators and EU frameworks expect robust independent oversight of AML/CFT/CPF and sanctions risk at board level.
  • Risk reduction: Independent challenge improves control effectiveness and reduces likelihood of regulatory fines and reputational harm.
  • Board competence: Specialist experience ensures the board understands complex transaction flows, typologies and evolving compliance obligations.
  • Stakeholder confidence: Investors, depositors and correspondents value demonstrable independent oversight of financial crime risks.
  • Tone from the top: ensuring policies, board briefings and staff training create a compliance-oriented culture.

Typical assignments in Luxembourg

  • Independent board risk assessments and risk reviews.
  • Serving as iNED on boards of (alternative) investment funds and fund managers with anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing oversight responsibilities.
  • Independent investigations and root-cause analysis following AML/CFT/CPF incidents and regulatory inquiries.
  • Regulatory engagement support: preparation for CSSF inspections, responses to findings and remediation monitoring.
  • Integration of compliance frameworks after M&A or group restructuring affecting Luxembourg entities.
  • Strenghen corporate governance and fund governance in the boardroom by supporting the implementation of the regulatory framework and regulatory change, best practices and supervisory expectations.

Value delivered to boards and management

  • Clear, actionable board reporting that translates complex financial crime risk into governance decisions.
  • Measured reduction in regulatory and operational exposure through targeted remediation and control enhancements.
  • Improved auditability and documentation to withstand regulatory scrutiny and enforcement actions.
  • Independent challenge that strengthens management proposals and improves risk culture across the organisation.
  • Effective governance based on strategic decisions, management of conflicts of interest, implementation of whistleblowing processes and data protection.

Relevant qualifications & experience

Proven track record as a director and senior compliance executive in Luxembourg and cross border contexts, including:

  • CSSF (Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier) engagement experience and familiarity with AMLA/EBA and FATF guidance.
  • Senior roles in AML/CFT/CPF, sanctions and regulatory compliance.
  • Professional qualifications such as CAFCP (Certified Anti-Financial Crime Professional, validated by TU Dublin) and other AML/CFT certifications and ongoing regulatory training.
  • Practical knowledge of tech solutions, data-driven monitoring and automation of compliance workflows.

How an iNED adds structure to governance and board oversight of your organisation

  1. Independent risk identification: highlight emerging typologies and systemic blind spots.
  2. Governance alignment: ensure board composition, board committees, reporting lines and risk appetite reflect financial crime priorities.
  3. Performance metrics: define and monitor KPIs for AML/CFT/CPF effectiveness, SAR quality, transaction monitoring, and sanctions screening performance.
  4. Continuous improvement: translate inspection findings into prioritised remediation and sustainment plans, while considering operational risks and adhering to best governance practices.

Selection criteria for an iNED focused on financial crime risk management

When selecting an independent non executive director (iNED) for Luxembourg entities, consider:

  • Direct board-level experience, e.g. in the asset management industry, and demonstrable independence.
  • Depth of money laundering and terrorist financing, as well as, sanctions expertise relevant to your business model.
  • Expertise to identify and mitigate risks, especially in financial markets, and their mitigation.
  • Regulatory track record and experience managing regulator interactions.
  • Ability to deliver concise, decision ready reporting to the board.
  • Availability and cultural fit with the board and roles and responsibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What responsibilities does an iNED with a financial crime focus have?

They provide independent oversight of AML, CTF, CPF and sanctions risk, provide strategic advice regarding service providers, challenge management controls, approve remediation plans, and ensure the board receives reliable, timely information to meet regulatory expectations.

How does an iNED differ from a compliance officer?

An iNED is independent and part of the board, responsible for oversight and challenge; the compliance officer is an executive role responsible for day to day implementation of controls and reporting to management and the board.

How quickly can an iNED produce value?

Immediate value comes from board-level gap analysis, prioritised remediation and enhancing governance; measurable improvements in control effectiveness and regulatory posture are typically realised within 3–12 months depending on scope.

How does this service fit within the broader AFC offering?

Independent director appointments complement our full suite of AFC services – AML/CFT/CPF compliance, AML/CFT/CPF Officer support, interim conducting officer placements, CSSF/AED inspection preparation, and Remediation (Post‑Inspection) – providing continuity between board oversight, robust governance and operational improvement.

Get started today

If your Luxembourg entity needs board-level oversight of financial crime and compliance risk, arrange a confidential consultation to discuss scope, independence requirements and proposals tailored to your risk profile.

Send us a message and we’ll get back to you.
E-mail us at e-mail@cetl.lu.
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You can also contact Bastian on +49 171 5356474. If he is unable to answer your call immediately, he will call you back.

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