Role Overview for Head of Regulatory Compliance with a Major Bank – New York, NY

JRG Partners is proud to partner with a tier-one global financial institution in their search for a distinguished and strategic Head of Regulatory Compliance. Based in the financial heart of the world, New York, NY, this executive leadership role is a pivotal opportunity for a seasoned compliance professional to shape and direct the bank’s comprehensive regulatory compliance framework. In an era of unprecedented regulatory scrutiny and complexity, this position is more critical than ever, serving as the cornerstone of the bank’s commitment to integrity, ethical conduct, and operational soundness.

The Head of Regulatory Compliance will be a key member of the senior leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Compliance Officer. This individual will be responsible for providing strategic vision, leadership, and oversight for all aspects of the bank’s compliance program, ensuring that all business activities adhere to applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies. The ideal candidate will be a forward-thinking leader with an impeccable track record of navigating complex regulatory environments, managing relationships with regulatory bodies, and fostering a strong culture of compliance throughout a large, multifaceted organization.

This is not merely a role of oversight; it is a role of strategic partnership and influence. You will work closely with business line leaders, risk management, legal, and internal audit to embed compliance principles into the fabric of the business. You will be at the forefront of interpreting new regulations, assessing their impact on the bank’s operations, and designing innovative and effective compliance solutions. Your leadership will directly contribute to safeguarding the bank’s reputation, mitigating risk, and enabling sustainable growth. If you are a transformative compliance leader with the expertise and gravitas to lead a world-class function within a major bank, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity.

Key Responsibilities of Head of Regulatory Compliance with a Major Bank – New York, NY

The Head of Regulatory Compliance will have a broad and impactful remit, overseeing the entirety of the regulatory compliance lifecycle. Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Strategic Leadership and Program Development

Develop, implement, and continuously enhance the bank’s enterprise-wide Regulatory Compliance Management Program (CMP). Provide visionary leadership to a team of compliance professionals, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and professional development. Set the strategic direction for the compliance function, ensuring it is aligned with the bank’s overall business objectives and risk appetite.

Regulatory Relationship Management

Serve as the primary point of contact and liaison for all key regulatory agencies, including the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), the Federal Reserve, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Proactively manage regulatory relationships, oversee all examinations and inquiries, and ensure timely and accurate responses to regulatory requests.

Policy and Procedure Governance

Oversee the development, review, and maintenance of all compliance-related policies, procedures, and standards. Ensure that all documentation is clear, comprehensive, and reflective of the current regulatory landscape and industry best practices.

Compliance Risk Assessment

Lead the annual and ongoing compliance risk assessment process to identify, analyze, and prioritize regulatory risks across all of the bank’s products, services, and operations. Utilize the results of the risk assessment to drive the focus of the compliance program and allocate resources effectively.

Monitoring and Testing

Design and execute a robust, risk-based compliance monitoring and testing plan to independently validate the effectiveness of business line controls. Ensure that testing is rigorous, well-documented, and results in actionable recommendations for improvement.

Senior Management and Board Reporting

Prepare and deliver clear, concise, and insightful reports on the state of the compliance program to Executive Management, the Board of Directors, and relevant board committees. Effectively communicate key compliance risks, issues, and program developments to senior stakeholders.

Advisory and Business Partnership

Act as a trusted advisor to business units on all regulatory compliance matters. Provide expert guidance on new product development, business initiatives, marketing campaigns, and strategic changes to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations from inception.

Regulatory Change Management

Maintain a comprehensive process for identifying, analyzing, and implementing changes in the regulatory environment. Ensure that the business is prepared for upcoming regulatory changes and that all necessary adjustments to policies, procedures, and controls are made in a timely manner.

Compliance Training and Awareness

Oversee the development and administration of a comprehensive compliance training program for all employees, including new hire, annual, and role-specific training. Promote a strong culture of compliance and ethical behavior throughout the organization.

Issue Management and Remediation

Manage a centralized process for the identification, tracking, and remediation of compliance issues. Work collaboratively with business lines and other stakeholders to ensure that root causes are identified and effective corrective actions are implemented and validated.

Requirements for the Head of Regulatory Compliance with a Major Bank – New York, NY

We are seeking a candidate with a distinguished career in financial services compliance. The qualifications and attributes required for this executive position are extensive and reflect the seniority and complexity of the role.

Educational Background

A Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Business, Law, or a related field is required. A Juris Doctor (J.D.) or Master of Business Administration (MBA) is strongly preferred.

Professional Experience

A minimum of 15+ years of progressive experience in a regulatory compliance, risk management, or legal role within a large, complex banking or financial services organization. A minimum of 7-10 years of experience in a senior leadership capacity, managing large teams and complex compliance programs.

Regulatory Expertise

Demonstrated, expert-level knowledge of U.S. banking laws, regulations, and supervisory expectations. Deep subject matter expertise is required in areas such as the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA), AML, OFAC, Dodd-Frank Act, consumer protection regulations (e.g., Regulations Z, E, B, DD), fair lending laws, and safety and soundness standards as set forth by the Federal Reserve Board and other key regulators.

Leadership and Management Acumen

Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop a high-performing team of compliance professionals. Exceptional executive presence, communication, and influencing skills, with the ability to engage effectively with the Board of Directors, senior executives, and regulators.

Strategic and Analytical Skills

A strategic thinker with the ability to see the big picture and translate regulatory requirements into effective, business-practical solutions. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach to risk management and decision-making.

Certifications

Relevant professional certifications such as Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager (CRCM) or Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) are highly desirable.

Integrity and Ethics

Unquestionable personal and professional integrity, a strong ethical compass, and the ability to exercise sound judgment under pressure.

Benefits & Perks Offered

Our client offers a highly competitive and comprehensive executive compensation package designed to attract and retain top-tier talent. The package includes:

Executive Compensation

A competitive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus.

Long-Term Incentives

Participation in the company’s long-term incentive plan (LTIP), including equity grants, to align executive success with the long-term performance of the bank.

Comprehensive Health & Wellness

Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents. Access to executive wellness programs and mental health resources.

Retirement Savings

A generous 401(k) plan with a substantial company match and potential profit-sharing contributions.

Paid Time Off

A significant allotment of paid time off (PTO), including vacation, personal days, sick leave, and company-paid holidays, to support work-life balance.

Professional Development

A dedicated budget for continuing education, professional certifications, and attendance at industry conferences to ensure you remain at the forefront of the compliance field.

Relocation

A comprehensive relocation assistance package is available for qualified candidates.

Work Environment

A prestigious office location in New York, NY, with a hybrid work model offering flexibility.

How to Apply

JRG Partners is the exclusive recruitment partner for this confidential search. We are seeking a visionary compliance leader who is ready to embrace a challenging and rewarding role at one of the world’s leading financial institutions.

If your experience and aspirations align with the requirements of this position, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your curriculum vitae and a detailed cover letter outlining your qualifications and expressing your interest in the role. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.

To explore our specialized recruitment capabilities in this sector, please visit our Financial Services Recruiting practice area page.

Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and strongly encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.