Program Manager - AML Operations Strategy

Program Manager - AML Operations Strategy

This job is responsible for overseeing programs and projects specific to corporate change initiatives that impact how the bank does business, provides a product or service, or executes a function. Key responsibilities include serving as the primary contact to department managers for critical change initiatives and communicating, influencing, and negotiating vertically and horizontally to obtain or leverage resources. The AML Operations Strategist will play a critical role in shaping and executing strategic initiatives to enhance the efficiency, scalability, and regulatory compliance of the organization's Anti-Money Laundering (AML) operations. This role requires a forward-thinking professional with deep knowledge of AML regulations, operational processes, and emerging technologies to drive innovation and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities :

• Defines program controls, processes, procedures, reporting cadence, decision governance structures, and ways of working with key stakeholders.
• Works closely with project sponsors, cross-functional teams, and assigned project managers to develop the scope, deliverables, required resources, work plan, budget, and timing for new change initiatives.
• Monitors the execution of defined tasks through tracking of program milestones and their statuses, developing program plans, and measuring progress against ongoing key performance indicators.
• Analyzes, evaluates, and overcomes program risks, and produces program reports for managers and stakeholders.
• Identifies key requirements for cross-functional teams and external vendors to perform in alignment with the program objectives.
• Works with other program managers to identify risks and opportunities across multiple projects within the department, leading them to negotiate decision making for efficient and effective resolution.
• Meets with stakeholders to provide transparency into project issues and decisions on services, builds positive relationships, asks questions, and uses tools to uncover root causes to challenges, identify opportunities, and make recommendations.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to optimize AML operational functions, including client activity monitoring, screening, and KYC / CDD onboarding and refresh.
• Identify opportunities for automation, process re-engineering, technology adoption, and communications / training / procedure development to improve efficiency and reduce risk.
• Document the blueprint for the organization that aligns goals, strategies and initiatives to the strategic plan.
• Develop control routines to ensure new projects and improvement activities are in alignment with the strategic plan.
• Drive the development of dashboards and KPIs to monitor effectiveness of AML processes and report to senior leadership.
• Integrate the strategic plan within existing people, process, and technology change functions.
• Leverage data analytics to identify trends, gaps, and opportunities for improving AML controls and operational performance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver strategic initiatives.
• Act as a subject matter expert (SME) for AML operations strategy in internal forums.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, regulatory changes, and emerging technologies in AML and financial crime prevention.

Required Qualifications :

7+ years in Anti-Money Laundering operations, compliance, or financial crime risk management, with at least 3 years in a strategic or transformation role.

Proven track record of leading large-scale process improvement or technology implementation projects.

Strong understanding of AML regulations and operational processes.

Expertise in data analytics, process optimization, and project management.

Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Familiarity with AML technology platforms and automation tools.

Desired Qualifications :

Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Risk Management, or related field (Master's preferred).

Skills :

Consulting

Problem Solving

Program Management

Project Management

Reporting

Collaboration

Leadership Development

Performance Management

Presentation Skills

Issue Management

Oral Communications

Process Design

Process Performance Management

Strategic Thinking

Analytical Problem-Solving

Change Management

Leadership and Influence

Regulatory Acumen

Shift : 1st shift (United States of America)

Hours Per Week : 40