Sr. Director, Global Sanctions Compliance - job 10 of 21

The Sr. Director, Global Sanctions Compliance at Visa is responsible for managing the company's sanctions and export control compliance program. This includes overseeing a team of compliance professionals, conducting risk assessments, training personnel, and ensuring adherence to global laws and regulations. The role requires a thorough understanding of economic sanctions, trade embargoes, and export controls to guide day-to-day operations and new business initiatives.

A successful candidate for the Sr. Director, Global Sanctions Compliance position at Visa typically holds a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, alongside extensive experience in compliance, particularly in sanctions-related matters. Strong analytical skills, excellent communication abilities, and proven leadership experience are also essential to effectively navigate compliance challenges and lead a team successfully.

The Sr. Director, Global Sanctions Compliance at Visa collaborates closely with multiple departments, including Legal, Risk Management, and Business Units. This role demands effective partnership to ensure compliance with sanctions regulations while aligning with business strategies. By working closely with these departments, the director helps to manage risks and enhance compliance protocols across various initiatives.

The Sr. Director, Global Sanctions Compliance position at Visa operates in a hybrid work environment. Employees are expected to alternate between remote work and office presence, typically spending 2-3 days a week in the office, as determined by leadership and site requirements. This flexibility allows for a collaborative work atmosphere while supporting work-life balance.

Critical skills for the Sr. Director, Global Sanctions Compliance include strong analytical and strategic thinking capabilities, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and a deep understanding of sanctions regulations and compliance frameworks. Leadership experience and proficiency in developing training programs are also vital to guide and mentor a team of compliance professionals effectively.

To assess and manage sanctions compliance risks, I focus on conducting thorough risk assessments, identifying potential exposure areas, and implementing robust controls tailored to those risks. I also emphasize continuous monitoring and collaboration with other departments to enhance compliance efforts and integrate risk management into day-to-day operations.

In my previous roles, I have successfully developed compliance training programs tailored to various departments. My approach involves identifying training needs, creating engaging content that resonates with employees, and ensuring that training sessions are interactive. I'm committed to fostering a culture of compliance through ongoing education and open communication.

Staying updated on sanctions regulations requires constant vigilance. I employ multiple strategies, including subscribing to industry newsletters, attending professional development conferences, and actively participating in regulatory forums. Networking with peers in compliance roles also provides valuable insight into emerging trends and changes.

I once faced a scenario where a new law required immediate changes to our compliance protocol. To address this, I quickly convened a cross-functional team to assess our current practices, identified gaps, and developed an action plan for implementation. This experience taught me the importance of swift decision-making and collaboration under pressure.

The success of a sanctions compliance program can be measured through several indicators, including the effectiveness of risk assessments, the number of incidents reported, employee feedback on training, and compliance audit results. Regular evaluations and updates to the program based on these metrics help ensure we maintain high compliance standards.

When working with external regulators, I prioritize transparency and collaboration. I ensure our documentation is comprehensive and readily available and maintain open lines of communication to address their inquiries promptly. Building trust through proactive engagement can lead to better outcomes for all parties involved.

Fostering a culture of compliance involves leading by example, promoting ethics and integrity in all interactions, and emphasizing the importance of compliance at all organizational levels. Regular training, open discussions about compliance issues, and creating an environment where employees feel comfortable reporting concerns are essential components of this culture.

I have utilized various tools and technologies to enhance sanctions compliance programs, including screening software for real-time monitoring of transactions, risk assessment platforms, and reporting solutions that streamline compliance processes. Regularly testing and refining these tools ensures we remain effective and responsive to compliance challenges.

My approach to mentoring and leading compliance teams focuses on building trust, fostering open communication, and supporting professional development. I encourage team members to take ownership of their roles and provide guidance through regular check-ins, constructive feedback, and opportunities for growth.

Some key challenges facing sanctions compliance today include the rapid pace of regulatory changes, increasing scrutiny from authorities, and the global nature of financial transactions. Staying agile and responsive while ensuring comprehensive compliance measures are in place is crucial to navigating this complex landscape.