Forensic Research & Compliance Consultant

About AKW ConsultantsAKW Consultants is a specialist advisory firm providing technical consulting in responsible sourcing, financial crime compliance, governance, ESG, forensic investigations and supply chain due diligence.Our clients include governments, central banks, multinational corporations, refineries, mining companies, financial institutions and international organisations.Unlike traditional consulting firms, our work goes beyond regulatory compliance. We investigate complex technical issues, analyse evidence, conduct independent research and develop practical solutions that shape policy, strengthen governance and improve responsible business practices across global supply chains.We are looking for intellectually curious individuals who enjoy solving difficult problems rather than performing routine compliance tasks.The OpportunityThis role is ideal for someone who enjoys research, analytical thinking and solving complex problems.Every project is different.One week you may be analysing illicit gold supply chains in Africa.The next week you may be reviewing international sanctions, forensic evidence, ESG risks, customs data or OECD guidance.You will work on assignments involving governments, regulators, international organisations and multinational companies, producing high-quality technical reports that influence important decisions.This is not a standard compliance role.We are looking for someone who enjoys learning, asking questions, challenging assumptions and producing work that is technically robust.Key ResponsibilitiesYou will:• Conduct detailed research on complex regulatory, technical and commercial subjects.• Analyse legislation, international standards, government regulations and industry guidance.• Perform enhanced due diligence, forensic research and investigative reviews.• Evaluate supply chains for financial crime, ESG, human rights and responsible sourcing risks.• Review corporate records, public filings, customs data, sanctions information and adverse media.• Identify inconsistencies, anomalies and potential red flags across large volumes of information.• Develop risk assessments and analytical frameworks.• Prepare high-quality technical reports, white papers, gap analyses and advisory reports.• Support OECD Due Diligence, Responsible Sourcing, AML/CFT, ESG and governance projects.• Assist with audits, field assessments and client engagements.• Monitor global regulatory developments and emerging risks.• Participate in international projects involving governments, refineries, mining companies, financial institutions and multinational corporations.We are looking for people who naturally enjoy:ReadingResearchingLearningWritingInvestigatingAnalysingQuestioningThinking criticallyIf you enjoy solving difficult problems and constantly learning new subjects, you will thrive in this role.Ideal CandidateWe are more interested in how you think than what industry you come from.Candidates with experience in any of the following areas are encouraged to apply:• Forensic• Financial Crime Compliance• Investigations• Intelligence Analysis• Economic Research• Policy Research• Risk Consulting• Technical Research• ESG• Responsible Sourcing• Supply Chain Due Diligence• Engineering Research• Physics• Mathematics• Data AnalyticsEssential SkillsThe successful candidate should demonstrate:• Exceptional analytical and critical thinking skills• Strong research capability• Excellent report writing and written English• Ability to analyse complex information objectively• Professional scepticism• High attention to detail• Ability to independently learn unfamiliar technical subjects• Strong logical reasoning• Curiosity and willingness to challenge assumptions• Ability to work with incomplete or conflicting information• Confidence working with large technical documentsPreferred QualificationsBachelor’s or Master’s degree in one or more of the following:• Physics• Engineering• Mathematics• Economics• Finance• International Relations• Environmental Science• Supply Chain• Public Policy• Data ScienceProfessional certifications such as CAMS, CFE, CFA, CA, CPA, CIA, ISO Lead Auditor or similar would be advantageous but are not essential.What Makes Someone Successful HereThe best people in our team are naturally curious.They enjoy reading reports, researching unfamiliar topics and asking “why.”They are comfortable working independently, enjoy intellectual challenges and take pride in producing work that is technically rigorous.If your first instinct when faced with a difficult question is to research it until you understand it completely, this role is likely to suit you.