Sr. Director, Global AML/ATF & Sanctions Compliance - Governance - job 3 of 37

The Sr. Director at Visa is responsible for leading the global AML and Sanctions governance function, which includes developing compliance policies, conducting risk assessments, overseeing governance structures, and coordinating regulatory audits. The role also involves managing training programs and quarterly board reporting, all aimed at ensuring alignment with regulatory obligations and enhancing program effectiveness.

Ideal candidates for the Sr. Director role should possess extensive experience in financial crimes compliance, with a strong track record in designing and monitoring compliance frameworks. A strategic mindset, excellent communication skills, and familiarity with regulatory requirements are essential. Certifications related to AML or compliance are often preferred.

This position at Visa offers a hybrid work environment, allowing employees to split their time between remote work and office presence. Employees are generally required to work from the office three days a week, promoting collaboration while also offering flexibility to support individual productivity.

The Sr. Director plays a crucial role in shaping Visa’s compliance culture by developing training programs, implementing quality assurance frameworks, and fostering a proactive compliance environment. This leadership position ensures that compliance is not just a checkbox but an integral part of the organization's everyday operations.

The Sr. Director will participate in a variety of projects including designing and implementing controls related to AML governance, managing audits, and enhancing compliance programs. They will review new products and services for compliance risks, thus directly influencing Visa's strategic direction.

In my experience, ensuring compliance begins with a robust understanding of regional regulations and developing a comprehensive framework that addresses these requirements. This involves conducting regular training, performing risk assessments, and implementing strong governance structures to monitor compliance effectively.

Certainly! In a previous role, I led an initiative that revamped our AML compliance training and risk assessment processes. This program not only enhanced compliance but also fostered a culture of accountability among employees, enabling us to monitor our KPIs more effectively.

I have extensive experience in leading enterprise-wide risk assessments, identifying vulnerabilities in processes, and consulting with stakeholders to mitigate those risks. This proactive approach has been essential for adapting to changing regulatory landscapes within the financial sector.

I view regulatory examinations as an opportunity to showcase our strengths and identify areas for improvement. My approach includes thorough preparation, ensuring all documentation is up to date, and fostering open communication with examiners throughout the process.

Developing effective compliance training requires an understanding of employee needs and regulatory updates. I focus on interactive training sessions and real-life scenarios that help employees apply compliance concepts in their work, ensuring practical understanding of AML and sanctions.

Success can be measured through various KPIs and KRIs, such as the number of incidents reported, training completion rates, and the outcome of regulatory audits. I also believe in fostering a culture of continuous improvement to adapt our program based on feedback and changing regulations.

One of the key challenges has been navigating evolving regulations. I tackled this by ensuring my team and I were constantly updated on regulatory changes and by developing adaptive compliance strategies that could adjust as necessary.

In my last position, I faced a significant regulatory change that required quick action. I collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop a new policy, communicated it clearly to the staff, and held training sessions to ensure successful implementation within a tight deadline.

I encourage an open-door policy and regular check-ins, where team members can express concerns and share observations. Additionally, I hold monthly meetings to discuss compliance updates, celebrate successes, and address challenges as a unified team.

My depth of experience in financial crimes compliance, combined with a strategic vision for governance and a history of implementing effective compliance programs, prepare me well for this role. I am passionate about creating a robust compliance culture that aligns with Visa's core values.