Meet the Malta Team: Marie Claire Dimech

In this meet the team article, we hear from Marie, our Compliance Officer in Malta. If you would like to know more on the corporate services we provide in Malta, visit our Malta company page here.

What sector do you work in and have you any thoughts to share about the industry right now?

I am the Compliance Officer of AML and ACDL in Malta. In a general sense, compliance means abiding by a set of rules. Compliance also adds value to the business, and it plays a vital role in ensuring an organisation moves in its desired direction and goes well beyond simply meeting the requirements of regulatory frameworks and ensures that clients are treated fairly.

On 25 June 2022, Malta was voted off the Financial Action Task Force (“FATF”) Grey list, one year later on being voted to be part of the FATF list. The Authorities along with the Government and Financial Institutions have worked hard together to achieve a stronger sense of ethical responsibility. Malta has remained committed to the reforms discussed within the FATF and the country continues to be considered a leading, transparent financial jurisdiction.

Please tell us what led you to this career and how has it has progressed so far?

I have worked in Financial Institutions for the past 20 years and whilst I was working at an Investment Company for 12 years, I was prompted as a Compliance Official.

I chose to work in the Compliance sector because it is an occupation with a lot of potential. It covers interesting work with an important objective to protect the organization and clients from within. I have worked in the Compliance sector for 7 years and as mentioned above, started my career as Compliance Official. However, throughout my professional advancement, I have achieved various roles such as Senior Compliance Official, Money Laundering Risk Officer and at present, a Compliance Officer

How is your day at Affinity and what do you do?

My day at the office consists of giving advice to my colleagues regarding financial and AML regulations, the on-boarding of a new client, the screening of existing clients, assessing regulatory risks, reviewing client files, reviewing press articles, preparation and revision of procedures manuals and risk assessing the business and our clients.

Are there any skills you are currently working on?

I am currently working on strengthening my positive attitude and being calm, in order to have the ability interpret and solve issues that may arise. In the end all issues can be solved!

What aspects do you love about your job and the company?

I feel that I am working with professionals that I can learn from and I am treated with respect and work with an amazing team. Affinity has a forward-thinking environment and it is a supportive company that believes employees are their greatest asset.

Can you tell us your favourite way to unwind after a busy day?

Watching a movie, going for a jog or a long walk with my sweet boy Micky.

Do you have any passions outside of work?

Travelling, long walks with my dog Micky and food

Finally, what is something you have done but will never do again?

I have no regrets! To live life without regrets doesn’t mean you never make a mistake. It doesn’t mean you never fail. It means that you live life to the fullest and learn from your experiences!

If you would like to know more about Marie Claire’s role at Affinity, visit her team profile here

Plus, you can follow our LinkedIn for regular updates on our team here