Ep: 25 | 02-12-2025

Join host Daniel Chatfield in conversation with Luke Haddon, Money Laundering Reporting Officer at Keystone Law, as they explore his unique journey from 2009 recession graduate through customer service roles to becoming a senior compliance leader in the legal sector.

In this episode, Luke shares candid insights into the differences between big firm and boutique compliance work, the evolution of UK anti-money laundering regulations, challenges of implementing AI and technology in law firms, and what really matters when building a career in legal risk and compliance.

Key Topics Covered:

  • Career progression from customer service to Money Laundering Reporting Officer
  • Working at Withers, Linklaters (London & New York), Simmons & Simmons, and Keystone Law
  • Big law firm vs boutique firm compliance work – pros and cons
  • Keystone Law’s unique structure of 500+ self-employed members
  • Evolution of UK Money Laundering Regulations from 1990s to 2017
  • Impact of AI and technology on compliance efficiency
  • Challenges of getting lawyers to adopt new systems
  • Strategies for implementing compliance technology successfully
  • Why customer service experience is valuable for compliance careers
  • What hiring managers really look for beyond credentials

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:36 Luke Haddon’s Career Journey

04:06 Transitioning to Keystone Law

08:19 Philosophy on Risk and Compliance

20:29 The Future of Law Firm Teams and Automation

21:02 Navigating FCA Supervision and Compliance

24:45 Hiring Trends and Skillsets in Law Firms

32:59 Advice for Aspiring Compliance Leaders

Guest Bio

Luke Haddon is Money Laundering Reporting Officer at Keystone Law, where he oversees compliance for 500+ self-employed legal professionals. His career spans major international law firms including Linklaters (London and New York), Withers, and Simmons & Simmons. Luke brings a unique perspective shaped by both big firm infrastructure and boutique firm innovation.

Keystone Law – https://www.keystonelaw.com/

About UNCOVER Pod

UNCOVER Pod explores careers in legal risk, compliance, and regulatory affairs through in-depth conversations with industry professionals. Host Daniel Chatfield brings insights from recruiting in the legal compliance sector, uncovering the real stories behind successful compliance careers.

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