IAN CILIA
Qormi
Summary
Client-focused leader with a strong background in AML and client due diligence, specializing in onboarding high-risk individuals and trusts. Over 5 years of experience managing and leading teams to achieve strategic goals with efficiency and excellence. Skilled in developing client relationships, enhancing onboarding processes, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Proven ability to communicate complex requirements clearly to high-net-worth clients while guiding teams to success in a high-pressure environment.
Overview
2025
2025
years of professional experience
Work History
Onboarding Team Manager
Blevins Franks Financial Wealth Management
01.2019 - Current
- Driving process improvements, including onboarding thread enhancements and supporting automation initiatives (Blue Prism) to streamline workflows and increase operational efficiency
- Leading the implementation of the new onboarding process, providing staff support and training to ensure a smooth transition and effective team performance
- Acting as the primary escalation point for case management, effectively resolving complex issues while maintaining high standards of client service
- Owning direct client communications, ensuring clear and proactive interactions while promoting a client-centric approach across the onboarding function
- Leading day-to-day relationship management with providers, strengthening partnerships and optimizing communication channels to support onboarding success
- Leading the onboarding process for high-risk individuals and trusts, ensuring compliance with AML/CDD requirements while maintaining client satisfaction and clarity
- Conducting initial client meetings to explain complex requirements (SOF/Money Trail/TCC/AML), addressing client questions, and summarizing next steps
- Managing team workflow, including triaging, allocating tasks, and overseeing output to minimize SLA breaches
- Providing leadership and training to team members, conducting second checks and onboarding sign-offs to maintain high standards of compliance and client service
- Co-authored an Onboarding Handbook to streamline processes and improve efficiency across the business
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to implement company-wide procedures and process improvements
Senior Finance Officer
Blevins Franks Wealth Management Limited
2013 - 2018
Education
High National Diploma - Business Administration and Management
The Open University
AML Certificate -
ICA
Diploma -
ACCA
CII Diploma -
Regulated Financial Planning
Skills
- Client-Facing Communication
- Stakeholder Management
- Team Leadership
- People Management
- AML
- Client Due Diligence Requirements
- Strategic Process Improvement
- Workflow Optimization
Languages
English
Proficient
C2
Maltese
Proficient
C2
Timeline
Onboarding Team Manager
Blevins Franks Financial Wealth Management
01.2019 - Current
Senior Finance Officer
Blevins Franks Wealth Management Limited
2013 - 2018
High National Diploma - Business Administration and Management
The Open University
AML Certificate -
ICA
Diploma -
ACCA
CII Diploma -
Regulated Financial Planning
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