Sr. Director, Global AML/ATF & Sanctions Compliance - Governance - job 30 of 37

The Sr. Director, Global AML/ATF & Sanctions Compliance at Visa is responsible for leading the company's comprehensive governance and program management functions. This includes developing and maintaining global AML and sanctions compliance policies, establishing governance structures, executing risk assessments, and reviewing new products for compliance risks. The role also requires effective coordination during regulatory examinations and internal audits, ensuring that Visa's compliance program remains robust and effective.

Candidates for the Sr. Director, Global AML/ATF & Sanctions Compliance at Visa should possess extensive experience in financial crimes compliance, ideally with a proven track record in designing and implementing compliance frameworks. Strong communication and strategic thinking skills are vital, alongside an in-depth knowledge of regulatory requirements related to AML and sanctions. A relevant degree in finance, business, or law is often preferred, along with any certifications in compliance or related fields.

The hybrid work model for the Sr. Director, Global AML/ATF & Sanctions Compliance at Visa allows for a flexible work arrangement. Employees in this position are expected to work in the office three days a week while maintaining the option to work remotely when business needs permit. This model promotes a balance between productive collaboration in the office and focused work at home, fostering an environment where compliance initiatives can thrive.

In the role of Sr. Director, Global AML/ATF & Sanctions Compliance at Visa, establishing effective governance structures is crucial for ensuring compliance across the organization. This involves leading compliance working groups, implementing management reporting frameworks, and creating escalation procedures. Strong governance structures facilitate better risk assessment, enhance program effectiveness, and ensure that Visa adheres to its regulatory obligations continuously.

Visa places a high emphasis on the continuous improvement of its compliance programs, including AML and Sanctions. The Sr. Director will be responsible for developing and managing training programs in coordination with Visa University and the Global Training team. This commitment to education ensures that all employees are well-informed about compliance requirements and best practices, which in turn strengthens the overall integrity of the compliance framework.

When developing AML and Sanctions compliance policies, I first ensure a thorough understanding of current regulations and industry standards. I engage with key stakeholders to gather insights and assess the organization's specific needs. Then, I draft policies that not only comply with regulations but also reflect the company's culture and operational capabilities. Finally, I conduct reviews and gather feedback before finalizing the policies to ensure clarity and effectiveness.

In my previous roles, I have led multiple enterprise risk assessments where my approach involves identifying key compliance risks, analyzing their impact, and prioritizing them based on their severity. I work with cross-functional teams to gather data and insights, ensuring a comprehensive view of the risks. This data-driven process allows me to present actionable recommendations to mitigate risks effectively.

To monitor the effectiveness of compliance programs, I establish a robust quality assurance framework that includes regular audits, monitoring of KPIs and KRIs, and stakeholder feedback mechanisms. I believe continuous review and improvement is key, so I create a feedback loop that allows for real-time adjustments based on findings, ensuring the program remains aligned with best practices and regulatory requirements.

Preparation for regulatory examinations requires meticulous planning. I start by reviewing past examination reports and compliance history to identify focus areas. Then, I assemble a cross-functional team to ensure all necessary documentation is current and accessible. I conduct mock examinations to assess readiness and address any potential issues, reinforcing the importance of transparency and cooperation with regulatory bodies.

My philosophy on AML compliance training is that it should be engaging, relevant, and continuous. I design training programs that not only inform but also empower employees to recognize compliance risks in their daily operations. Using interactive methods and real-world scenarios, I strive to create a learning environment that promotes proactive compliance and underscores each employee's role in our compliance culture.

When assessing compliance risks for new products or services, I initiate a thorough analysis that involves collaboration with product development teams. I review regulatory requirements specific to the product, conduct risk assessments, and identify potential vulnerabilities. This collaborative approach ensures that compliance considerations are integrated into the product lifecycle from the start, helping to mitigate risks effectively.

In my previous role, I undertook an initiative to revamp our AML compliance program by incorporating advanced technology and analytics. I introduced automated monitoring tools that increased our detection capabilities and reduced manual errors. As a result, we were able to enhance program efficiency, improve reporting timeliness, and foster a culture of accountability within the organization.

Effective communication is vital for the Sr. Director role, as you will need to liaise with various stakeholders, from operational teams to the executive board. I believe that active listening, clarity in conveying complex information, and the ability to tailor messages to different audiences are essential. Additionally, fostering open channels for open dialogue will ensure any compliance concerns are addressed promptly.

Staying updated on compliance regulations is critical in this ever-evolving landscape. I regularly attend industry conferences, participate in webinars, and subscribe to relevant regulatory updates and publications. I also network with other professionals in the field, which often provides valuable insights into emerging trends and best practices, helping me remain well-informed and proactive in my role.

In managing compliance data, I prefer using advanced compliance management systems that offer robust analytics and reporting capabilities. Tools like data visualization software can help in interpreting complex datasets effectively. I also value solutions that enable automated workflows for documentation and reporting to enhance control and streamline processes, which ultimately improves the efficiency of our compliance program.