Compliance Officer - 3rd Party App Store Risk Management

Written By Jonathan Marriott

Position Title: Compliance Officer

Location: Remote

Company Overview: 

Join a dynamic start-up at the forefront of third-party app marketplaces, with a distinct focus on adhering to risk mitigating measures imposed by Apple (and Android) to enable a credible and robust risk management framework where innovation meets regulatory excellence. 

Our client is a fast-paced, growth-oriented company with global aspirations, committed to navigating the complexities of compliance while fostering a culture of integrity and accountability.

Role Overview:

Our client seeks a proactive and adaptable Compliance Officer to support their start-up’s mission by ensuring adherence to legal standards, compliance requirements and implementing internal policies, fostering a culture of compliance and credibility along the way. 

This role is ideal for a business-minded individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment, bringing a “make it happen” mindset, and who is excited to tackle the challenges that come with a growing organisation that is operating within a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape whilst also working through changing priorities and dynamics. 

You will play a crucial role in establishing compliance frameworks as a ‘Phase 1 project’, over a 6 month term, for both third party app developers and internal operations; managing priorities, and balancing the varying demands of the business activities you support. There is the opportunity for the right candidate to secure a longer term role, potentially as part of the executive team.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Delivery of a ‘Phase 1’ project, to design, develop and implement the robust risk management framework, utilising exceptional project management skills to ensure compliance timelines are met, coordinating with various teams (legal, IT, product development) effectively;

    • Definition of a well-organised and clearly articulated project plan that enables the development and implementation of a robust risk management framework within the specified timescales;

  • Effective management of the complexities of Apple’s risk requirements for third-party app marketplace services, ensuring compliance while supporting innovation and business goals;

    • Navigation of Apple’s risk mitigating requirements that enable the creation and integration of third party app stores; leveraging experience in the legal and regulatory frameworks relevant to app development processes and technologies, and marketplace operations, in accordance with Apple’s development guidelines;

  • Development of a risk and compliance framework that includes, but is not limited to, app onboarding and due diligence, payment regulations compliance, content guidelines and moderation processes, anti-fraud measures to prevent scams, data protection, information security and the ability to manage payment disputes and refunds;

    • Apply the ability to identify, evaluate and mitigate risks associated with third-party services and apps, including security, privacy, and operational risks;

    • Work with both internal and external stakeholders and customers to ensure a practical and risk-based approach to risk management across the app lifecycle, implementing consistent standards that can be efficiently delivered without detriment to the business risk profile;

    • Establish a full and thorough understanding of the payments regulatory landscape applicable to app developments with consideration to and reflection of the App In-App Purchase (IAP) system; the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS); Apple platform guidelines, AML and KYC requirements where applicable, feeding in to discussions and decision-making relating to payment gateway selection, user experience, integration and security.

  • Tackle problems ‘head-on’ with a ‘can do’ mentality, navigating complex compliance scenarios and developing practical solutions that align with business objectives;

  • Recognise that the Apple compliance standards are rapidly evolving and that emerging technologies often result in changes in Apple’s policies - and that this needs to be reflected in the client’s own risk management framework to ensure ongoing and up-to-date compliance;

  • Communicate with excellent verbal and written skills to articulate compliance requirements and risk assessments to stakeholders and developers, in a style that is understandable to and resonates well with the recipient;

  • Comfortable at the prospect of managing a small compliance team to support the growing demands of the business.

Qualifications & Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Law, Finance, or a related field; advanced degree or compliance certification (e.g., CCEP, CCB) is a plus;

  • Proven experience in a compliance role, preferably in a start-up or fast-paced environment;

  • Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks relevant to application development and related marketplace operations and requirements;

  • Experience in navigating payment systems regulations; within the app store risk management framework would be beneficial

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across teams;

  • Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving skills;

  • Comfortable managing multiple priorities and adapting to changing demands;

  • Previous experience working for Apple, Amazon or Google would be beneficial.

If you are a self-motivated compliance professional who thrives in a dynamic environment and is ready to contribute to a growing start-up, we encourage you to apply and help us to support our client in building a culture of compliance and integrity.

Jonathan Marriott