William McCoppin is a Manager, Compliance at Coopman Search and Selection. He has experience across multiple markets, specialising in compliance and financial crime at the interim, mid-to-senior and executive level. Get to know William in this spotlight interview covering his experience in the Irish and UK market, current trends in compliance and financial crime, the key to career success and more.
1) HOW DID YOU COME TO SPECIALISE IN COMPLIANCE AND FINANCIAL CRIME RECRUITMENT?
I always had a keen interest in the financial markets having started my career recruiting for the investment banking industry in London. It was after a discussion with a friend, who worked in financial crime at the time, that I really understood the opportunity and the potential within the industry. I was introduced to an inspiring Director in my previous firm and the rest is history.
2) TELL ME ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE WORKING IN THE IRISH AND UK MARKET.
There are a lot of synergies in both the UK and Irish markets, and from a compliance and regulatory perspective, the markets and regulations are very similar. The UK is a larger market to navigate which at times can be overwhelming and with the the sheer volume of opportunities available, it often takes time to become an industry specialist. Ireland is a market that is still evolving and is benefiting from political and regulatory changes across Europe. For example, Brexit has created opportunities across the industry, especially for compliance and regulatory professionals.
3) WHAT TRENDS ARE YOU SEEING IN THE COMPLIANCE AND FINANCIAL CRIME MARKETS IN THE UK AND/OR EUROPE?
There is an undeniable need for compliance and regulatory expertise across the industry which will continue to evolve post-pandemic. There is an emphasis on data, technology and privacy being driven by local and international regulators which will ensure the pressure remains on firms and their resourcing. We are seeing encouraging hiring demands for individuals skilled in MiFID, AIFM, UCITS and Best Execution.
4) WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO INDIVIDUALS CURRENTLY LOOKING FOR JOBS IN COMPLIANCE / FINANCIAL CRIME?
Be patient and do your research. In the current remote working environment, it is important to understand the culture of a business and their appetite for compliance. Normally, an interview begins from the moment an individual walks through the doors of an employer’s office. However, as a result of the pandemic, these experiences have changed and this has created doubt or uncertainty for many professionals. It is important to ensure that you are equipped with relevant and inquisitive questions, to provide you with a holistic view of a business.
5) WHY DID YOU JOIN COOPMAN?
The relentless ambition Coopman has in succeeding to become a trusted and valued recruitment partner to our individuals and clients. It was obvious from the first meeting I had with the management team, that we share the same values and passion for recruitment. We have a bespoke marketing and brand strategy which combined with our unparalleled expertise and technology, ideally positions us to offer unique solutions to our network. We also have exciting and ambitious growth plans for the future.
6) WHERE DO YOU SEE COOPMAN IN A YEAR?
As a company, we are growing organically and continuously looking to add to our business across all areas, especially within our compliance and risk teams. A year from now, I expect that we will have grown both our UK and Irish operations, and further developed our brand and reputation in both locations.
7) AS A TOP BILLER IN YOUR PREVIOUS ROLES, WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
Surround yourself with people that want to succeed as much as you do. Without the support of my colleagues, leadership teams and mentors over the course of my career, I would not have achieved the same success. It is important to have a vision for both you and your team, for which clear goals and objectives are set and worked towards using structured processes and roadmaps. It is also vital to find an industry you are passionate about, that keeps you interested and will challenge you on a daily basis.
8) WHAT IS THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU HAVE EVER RECEIVED?
A few have remained with me throughout my career, but if I was to pick one, it would be “by failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail”. Although it could be argued that every business leader has shared this piece of advice at some stage in their career, it is nonetheless true. By having a clear structure, a detailed plan and being consistent in everything you do both professionally and personally, you will be best positioned to achieve your goals.
9) WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME?
Most evenings and weekends, I can be found out walking my dogs and I also like to cycle and run in my spare time. I enjoy travelling and most importantly, navigating Europe’s finest golf courses!
