.png?width=1920&height=1080&name=Jessica%20Cath%201920%20wide%20rounded%20corners%20(1).png "Jessica Cath 1920 wide rounded corners (1)")
Anti-Money Laundering
A strong commitment to preventing money laundering is essential for any financial institution. Firms must implement a robust AML framework supported by clear oversight and effective controls. This framework should align with Money Laundering Regulations and guidance, as well as global standards from the Financial Action Taskforce (FATF) and guidance from bodies such as the Wolfsberg Group. Our approach is informed by a deep understanding of regulatory frameworks and guidance, tailored to the specific risk profile and operating environment of each organisation.
Anti-Bribery, Corruption, and Facilitation of Tax Evasion
Firms must take proactive measures to prevent bribery, corruption, and the facilitation of tax evasion, all of which carry significant legal and reputational risks. We help firms establish and embed clear frameworks, implement proportionate controls, and foster a culture of transparency and accountability. Our advisory services include policy development, risk assessment, and third-party due diligence support, as well as investigations.
Sanctions Compliance
Global sanctions regimes are complex, fast-changing and present particularly high risks. To comply, firms must maintain up-to-date sanctions screening systems and respond quickly to regulatory updates. We assist clients in navigating these challenges by designing and testing effective sanctions compliance programmes. This includes implementing screening tools, enhancing governance and reporting structures, and ensuring staff are trained to identify and manage potential sanctions risks.
Read more
Counter‑Terrorist Financing and Counter‑Proliferation Financing
Firms are obligated to prevent the misuse of financial systems for the funding of terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. A comprehensive risk-based framework should be in place to detect, monitor, and report any suspicious activity. We help firms safeguard against the risks of terrorist financing and the funding of weapons proliferation through tailored risk assessments, targeted controls, and robust due diligence practices. Our services support organisations in meeting international obligations while effectively managing operational impact.
Fraud Prevention
Fraud involves the use of deception to secure unlawful gain and is a persistent threat across sectors. To combat fraud, firms should implement strong internal controls such as fraud monitoring, staff awareness initiatives, and incident response plans. We work with clients to assess vulnerabilities, and build a proactive fraud risk management strategy. This includes policies and procedures, risk assessments, staff training, investigative support, and the integration of fraud prevention into broader compliance frameworks.
Read moreWhat our clients have to say
.pdf%20(3).png?width=2000&height=1414&name=1MM%20LOGO%20(1).pdf%20(3).png)
More from the industry
Jessica Cath 
Managing Partner
Jessica is a financial crime leader, working with a range of firms to build, scale and assure all elements of the financial crime framework. She has worked with start-ups to Tier 1 Banks to transform controls through growth phases or when facing regulatory enforcement.
Jess has also conducted multiple US monitor and s166 Skilled Person reviews globally, and has a Masters Degree in Intelligence and International Security and holds an ICA diploma in Financial Crime Prevention.
Michael Knight-Robson
Partner, Financial Crime
Michael Knight-Robson has joined as a Partner in the Financial Crime team, working alongside Jessica Cath. With over 15 years’ experience in financial crime compliance, he was most recently a Director at BDO, where he built a strong reputation for leading s166 Skilled Person reviews and providing firms with proportionate, risk-based advice to stay compliant.
His career also includes senior roles at Bovill, Lloyds Banking Group and Investec, giving him practical, well-rounded expertise to help firms strengthen their financial crime compliance frameworks.
'''Working with Thistle Initiatives has been an amazing experience.
Their team is professional, organised, supportive and highly knowledgeable in Financial Crime. Moreover, their approach to stakeholder management and communication within our organisation has been perfect at all stages.
Thistle conducted our annual AML Audit, and their methodology, scope, and execution were carefully structured and well-timed. The advice provided to our organisation was incredibly helpful. We look forward to collaborating with the Thistle team again soon."