Head of Anti Financial Crime Operations

Position Summary: As the Head of Offshore AML/KYC & Screening Operations, you will lead a team responsible for conducting screening processes across sanctions, Anti-Money Laundering (AML), and Know Your Customer (KYC) operations. This role requires a strong operational mindset, the ability to drive change, and experience in adapting to digital transformation. You will work closely with technology, legal, and transformation teams to ensure maximum compliance with internal and external regulatory standards. The role would need you to be influencing in your interactions, driving the right behaviors and educating on the right compliance postures.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead and manage an offshore team of approximately 50 professionals, overseeing screening operations across Sanctions, AML, and KYC. Ensure compliance with internal policies and external regulatory requirements, including SEC regulations and other relevant sanctions frameworks. In collaboration with your stakeholder, implement, and maintain an effective sanctions, AML and KYC screening program and related compliance processes. Oversee daily sanctions, AML and KYC screening operations, including alert reviews, investigations, and escalation processes.Collaborate with legal, compliance, and business teams to address sanctions, AML and KYC-related issues. Being an influencer, driving change conversations and using the experience to do the right thing for the Business Drive operational excellence and continuous improvement in screening processes and methodologies. Collaborate with technology teams to implement and optimize screening platforms such as World Check One, Bridger, and LexisNexis. Manage case management processes and systems effectively. Provide thought leadership and strategic direction for the screening operations team. Maintain documentation of sanctions, AML and KYC compliance activities and present to senior leadership and key stakeholders on operational performance, challenges, and strategic initiatives. Work hands-on with the team when necessary to resolve complex issues or meet critical deadlines. Partner with the technology, legal, and transformation teams to drive change and implement new processes or technologies. Develop and maintain relationships with key internal stakeholders, including the Chief Ethics and Compliance Officer, Chief Audit Executive, Chief Shared Services Officer, and Functional Executive Directors. Stay up to date with evolving regulations, industry practices, and emerging risks in the field of financial crime to ensure ongoing compliance and effective risk mitigation. Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure regular training programs and awareness campaigns are conducted to promote a strong culture of financial crime prevention across the organization. Develop and deliver sanctions, AML and KYC compliance training to your personnel.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field; advanced degree preferred
• Minimum 15 years of experience in screening across sanctions, AML, and KYC
• Professional certifications such as ACAMS
• Proven experience in leading and managing teams of 50-100 people
• Strong understanding of sanctions regulatory frameworks, including SEC regulations and AML regulations
• Experience in consulting or banking sectors is highly desirable
• Demonstrated ability to adapt to and lead digital transformation initiatives
• Excellent communication skills and proven thought leadership capabilities
• Strong operational mindset with the ability to drive change and work independently
• Proficiency in case management and screening platforms (e.g., World Check One, Bridger, LexisNexis)
• Experience in program management and stakeholder engagement
• Ability to present effectively in senior leadership meetings
• Excellent analytical skills with ability to interpret complex regulations
• Demonstrate confidence in your ability, and anticipate what is needed
• Ability to prioritize workload with an attention to detail and willingness to complete projects in a timely and efficient manner
• Team player who deals respectfully, inclusively and effectively with colleagues and clients
• Excellent analytical skills with ability to interpret complex regulations

Additional Skills and Competencies:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, global environment
• Excellent project management and organizational skills
• Cultural sensitivity and ability to work with diverse teams
• Adaptability and flexibility in responding to changing regulatory landscapes
• Strong ethical standards and commitment to compliance