AML Program Manager VP

Job Summary:

The New York Branch of an international bank is seeking a driven and detail-oriented Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Program Manager to oversee the daily management of its AML compliance program. This role is responsible for directing a team of BSA/AML professionals, ensuring that all compliance functions are performed accurately, thoroughly, and within regulatory timeframes.

The ideal candidate will have deep knowledge of U.S. financial crime regulations, including the Bank Secrecy Act and related industry best practices. They will maintain current awareness of regulatory requirements for financial institutions and play a key role in developing and mentoring team members to meet the evolving needs of the organization. This is an excellent opportunity for a compliance leader looking to make a lasting impact at a growing international bank.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

Direct the day-to-day execution of the branch’s AML compliance operations, including the review, quality assurance, and timely filing of Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) in accordance with regulatory requirements (e.g., FinCEN, FFIEC).

Supervise AML analysts and investigative staff, overseeing personnel management tasks such as performance evaluations, capacity planning, attendance tracking, and resource allocation.

Manage the end-to-end investigative process: triage and assignment of alerts/referrals, case inventory control, escalation protocols, SAR drafting and filing workflows, and generation of management information system (MIS) reports.

Ensure effective implementation of the branch’s AML compliance framework, including adherence to written policies, risk-based procedures, and control processes designed to detect, prevent, and report suspicious activity.

Support the integrity and effectiveness of AML surveillance systems and case management tools, help to ensure appropriate configuration, tuning, and rule optimization based on risk typologies and regulatory expectations.

Oversee the execution of Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) reviews for high-risk customers, ensuring comprehensive analysis and documentation in line with regulatory expectations and internal risk appetite.

Design, implement, and present risk-based controls for the onboarding of new customers, including review of customer profiles, expected activity, and geographic or product-specific risk factors.

Coordinate ongoing AML training programs for investigative and front-line staff to ensure role-based understanding of obligations, red flags, and escalation procedures.

Provide regular reporting and program updates to the BSAO and Director of AML and Sanctions including escalation of material issues and recommendations for program enhancements.

Maintain expert-level knowledge of applicable U.S. AML laws, including the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA), USA PATRIOT Act, OFAC regulations, FinCEN advisories, and regulatory guidance from federal and state banking regulators.

Compile and analyze program performance metrics (e.g., SAR volumes, alert conversion rates, investigation turnaround times) to assess operational effectiveness and ensure accurate reporting to senior management and internal audit.

Serve as a compliance subject matter expert, providing advisory support to business lines and responding to complex AML-related inquiries and scenarios.

Support internal and external examinations, audits, and reviews by preparing documentation, addressing inquiries, and implementing remediation as needed.

Perform additional duties or lead special projects as assigned by senior compliance leadership.

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree

Minimum 6 years of BSA/AML compliance experience, including 4+ years in investigations

At least 2 years of direct managerial or team leadership experience in a compliance or investigations role

Strong working knowledge of U.S. AML laws and regulations, including BSA, USA PATRIOT Act, OFAC, KYC, and sanctions compliance

Proficiency in AML monitoring or case management tools (e.g., Oracle)

Experience with international banking operations and SWIFT payment systems

CAMS certification (or ability to obtain within 6 months)

Excellent analytical, organizational, and written communication skills

Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word); ability to analyze large data sets and generate reporting for management

Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment in complex regulatory matters

Skilled at presenting findings to senior leadership and regulators

Strong collaboration skills; able to work cross-functionally with Legal, Operations, and Business Lines

Ability to work independently and handle sensitive matters with discretion

Preferred Qualifications:

Spanish fluency (written and verbal)

Familiarity with regulatory environments and banking practices in LATAM and/or Spain

Experience interacting with U.S. banking regulators and preparing for exams/audits

Experience developing or enhancing risk assessments, policies, and training programs

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

With respect to this position in our New York Office, the expected base salary ranges from $160,000 to $170,000. It is not typical for offers to be made at or near the top of the range. Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. In addition to salary and a generous employee benefits package, successful candidates are eligible to receive a discretionary bonus.

*Employment eligibility to work with BBVA in the U.S. is required as the company will not pursue visa sponsorship for these positions