Role Overview for Chief Compliance Officer with an Investment Advisor – Boston, MA
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a prestigious, tech-forward registered investment advisor (RIA) based in the heart of Boston, MA, in their search for a dynamic and experienced Chief Compliance Officer (CCO). This is a pivotal executive leadership role reporting directly to the CEO and serving as a key member of the firm’s senior management team. The CCO will be the cornerstone of the firm’s ethical and regulatory framework, responsible for the strategic oversight, development, and administration of a comprehensive, best-in-class compliance program.
Our client manages a significant portfolio for a sophisticated clientele of high-net-worth individuals, families, and institutions. They are committed to a culture of unwavering integrity, transparency, and fiduciary excellence. The ideal candidate will not only be a subject matter expert in investment advisory regulations but also a strategic business partner who can navigate the complexities of an evolving regulatory landscape while supporting the firm’s growth objectives. You will be tasked with fostering a “culture of compliance” that permeates every level of the organization, ensuring that all business activities are conducted in strict adherence to applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the compliance infrastructure of a growing firm and make a tangible impact on its long-term success and reputation in the competitive Boston financial market.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Compliance Officer with an Investment Advisor – Boston, MA
The Chief Compliance Officer will have a broad and critical set of responsibilities, encompassing all aspects of the firm’s compliance and ethical standards. This role requires a hands-on approach combined with high-level strategic thinking.
Compliance Program Management
Develop, implement, and continuously enhance the firm’s compliance program to ensure its effectiveness. This includes drafting, reviewing, and updating all compliance policies and procedures to reflect new regulations, industry best practices, and changes in the firm’s business operations.
Regulatory Interpretation and Guidance
Serve as the firm’s foremost expert on the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, the Investment Company Act of 1940, and other relevant federal and state securities laws. Provide timely and practical advice to senior management and staff on all compliance-related matters.
Code of Ethics Administration
Oversee and administer the firm’s Code of Ethics, including managing personal securities trading monitoring (pre-clearance and reporting), political contributions, and policies on gifts and entertainment to prevent conflicts of interest.
Regulatory Filings and Reporting
Manage and ensure the timely and accurate preparation and filing of all regulatory documents, including Form ADV (Parts 1, 2A, and 2B), Form PF, 13F filings, and any other required state or federal submissions.
Risk Assessment and Testing
Conduct regular, comprehensive risk assessments to identify potential areas of compliance vulnerability and risk. Develop and execute a robust compliance testing and surveillance program to monitor adherence to policies and procedures, and create detailed reports of findings for senior management and the board.
Employee Training and Education
Design and deliver engaging and effective compliance training programs for all employees, including new hire orientation and annual mandatory training, to ensure a high level of awareness and understanding of their regulatory obligations.
Regulatory Liaison
Act as the primary point of contact for all regulatory inquiries, examinations, and audits from the SEC and other regulatory bodies. Manage the examination process from start to finish, including coordinating responses and implementing any necessary remedial actions.
Marketing and Advertising Review
Meticulously review and approve all marketing materials, client communications, social media content, and requests for proposals (RFPs) to ensure compliance with GIPS standards and SEC advertising rules (Rule 206(4)-1).
AML and KYC Oversight
Oversee the firm’s Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) programs, ensuring robust client identification and verification processes are in place and suspicious activity is appropriately reported.
Cybersecurity Compliance
Partner with the Chief Technology Officer to develop and maintain written policies and procedures related to cybersecurity, data privacy, and business continuity planning, ensuring they meet regulatory expectations and protect client information.
Annual Compliance Review
Lead the annual compliance program review as required by Rule 206(4)-7, documenting the process, findings, and any recommendations for enhancement.
Requirements for the Chief Compliance Officer with an Investment Advisor – Boston, MA
We are seeking a seasoned professional with a proven track record of excellence in investment advisory compliance. The successful candidate will possess a unique blend of technical expertise, leadership acumen, and personal integrity.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive compliance experience within a registered investment advisor (RIA), asset management firm, or a related financial services environment. Direct experience as a CCO or Deputy CCO is highly preferred.
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree is required. A Juris Doctor (J.D.) or an MBA is strongly preferred.
Regulatory Expertise
Deep, comprehensive knowledge of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, SEC regulations, and other relevant securities laws. Experience with private funds, ERISA, and GIPS standards is a significant plus.
Leadership Skills
Demonstrated ability to lead and manage the compliance function, with experience building and mentoring a team. Must possess the executive presence and credibility to interact effectively with senior management, the board of directors, and regulators.
Analytical and Problem-Solving Abilities
Superior analytical skills with the ability to assess complex regulatory issues, identify potential risks, and develop practical, business-oriented solutions.
Communication Skills
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills. The ability to distill complex regulations into clear, concise guidance for a non-technical audience is essential.
Certifications
Professional certifications such as Investment Adviser Certified Compliance Professional (IACCP®), Certified Securities Compliance Professional (CSCP), or similar designations are highly desirable.
Personal Attributes
Unquestionable ethics, integrity, and a strong moral compass. Must be highly organized, detail-oriented, proactive, and capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client believes in investing in their people and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of their employees. This includes:
Competitive Compensation
A highly attractive base salary, annual performance-based bonus, and potential for long-term incentives or equity participation.
Comprehensive Health and Wellness
Top-tier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for employees and their families, along with a generous wellness stipend.
Retirement Planning
A robust 401(k) plan with a significant company match to help you plan for your future.
Generous Paid Time Off
A competitive paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and company-paid holidays, to promote a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Development
A strong commitment to your career growth, with support for continuing education, industry conferences, and obtaining or maintaining professional certifications.
Modern Work Environment
A state-of-the-art office located in Boston, with options for a flexible, hybrid work model.
Parental Leave
A generous paid parental leave policy to support growing families.
Community Involvement
Opportunities to participate in company-sponsored volunteer events and charitable giving programs.
How to Apply
If you are a highly motivated and experienced compliance leader ready to take on a challenging and rewarding role with a premier Boston-based investment advisor, we encourage you to apply. This is a confidential search conducted by JRG Partners.
To express your interest, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and suitability for this role. For more information about our expertise in this field, please visit JRG Partners’ Legal & Compliance practice area. We are committed to diversity and inclusion and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing this exceptional opportunity with you.
