Job Overview:
Our client is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Senior Compliance Officer / Head of Compliance to lead their compliance team. The ideal candidate will have extensive knowledge of regulatory requirements and best practices within the payments industry, ensuring our company operates within the law and meets all compliance obligations. This role requires a strategic thinker with strong leadership skills who can effectively manage compliance risks and implement robust compliance programs.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership and Management:
- Lead and manage the compliance team, providing guidance, support, and professional development opportunities.
- Develop and implement compliance strategies, policies, and procedures to ensure adherence to regulatory requirements.
- Act as a key advisor to the executive team on compliance-related matters.
Regulatory Compliance:
- Monitor and interpret federal, state, and local regulations affecting the payments industry, including but not limited to AML, KYC, BSA, OFAC, and CFPB.
- Ensure the company's policies and procedures comply with applicable laws and regulations.
- Develop and maintain a robust AML/CTF program, including transaction monitoring, customer due diligence, and reporting of suspicious activities.
Risk Management:
- Conduct regular risk assessments to identify potential compliance risks and implement mitigation strategies.
- Oversee internal and external audits, regulatory examinations, and any required remediation efforts.
- Develop and maintain a comprehensive risk management framework for the organization.
Training and Education:
- Develop and implement compliance training programs for employees at all levels of the organization.
- Promote a culture of compliance and ethical behavior throughout the company.
Reporting and Communication:
- Prepare and present regular compliance reports to the executive team and board of directors.
- Serve as compliance point of contact for regulatory agencies and external auditors.
- Ensure effective communication of compliance policies and procedures across the organization.
Continuous Improvement:
- Stay up to date with industry trends, regulatory changes, and best practices.
- Continuously evaluate and improve the company's compliance programs and procedures.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in law, business, finance, or a related field (M.A. or advanced degree preferred).
- 8+ years of experience in compliance, preferably within the payments or financial services industry.
- Extensive knowledge of federal and state regulations related to payments, AML/CTF, and consumer protection.
- Proven experience in managing compliance teams and implementing compliance programs.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and senior management.
- Certification in compliance (e.g., CAMS, CFE, CRCM) is highly desirable.