Adaobi Ezeaku
AML/KYC Compliance Analyst
*******@*****.*** • 240-***-****
linkedin.com/in/adaobi-ezeaku-91ab9763 • Hyattsville, MD
Highly analytical and results-driven professional with extensive experience driving the strategic direction of AML risk and control framework within the organization as well as providing support with the administration of the company’s Anti Money Laundering (AML) program. Solid understanding of global and local AML regulations and associated risks of non-compliance as well as broad knowledge of KYC processes throughout the client lifecycle. Possess strong communication and interpersonal skills with a proven ability to partner with internal teams, in particular AML, compliance, operations, and treasury.
Areas of Expertise
Audit & Regulatory Engagement
Critical Thinking & Decision Making
AML Compliance Monitoring
Risks Analysis & Mitigation
Fraud Identification & Prevention
Team Leadership & Development
People Management
Brand Audits & Compliance
Documentation & Reporting
Professional Experience
BB & T (Contract) 10/2018 – 11/2022
AML/KYC Analyst
Performed a diverse range of duties with high levels of efficiency, such as drafting case investigations, generating Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs), analyzing Currency Transaction Reports (CTRs), and driving reference Customer Identification Programs (CIPs). Provided a proof of identity and address through KYC file/document control. Ensured timely approvals by collaborating with other KYC staff, front officers, compliance officers, and staff in back office. Conducted periods reviews to refresh data and documentation for existing clients on an ongoing basis. Aimed at meeting client needs and achieving high satisfaction levels by participating in new client onboarding and contract renewal processes, conducting due diligence on contract performance, and proposing adjustments. Strictly adhered to internal controls and government regulations. Administered implementation of KYC Standards/Policy in front office at all times. Linked individuals with development and intellectual disabilities with appropriate services, community resources, and support networks.
●Identified suspicious patterns, investigated and measured organization’s risk of suspicious transactions by successfully analyzing financial documents and statements.
●Played an integral role in enabling the organization to comply with all anti-money laundering rules and regulations to prevent audits or money laundering accusations.
●Maximized productivity levels by evaluating each staff’s performance, identifying areas for improvement, and rendering guidance regarding necessary areas.
●Reduced risks and enabled transparency by providing operational support to managers in presenting status updates to the management.
●Maintained end-to-end compliance with state regulations by providing expert-level guidance to individuals and staff.
●Responsible for executing AML quality reviews including 2nd-level reviews and peer reviews
●Perform quality reviews of SAR reports and case files with non-SAR decisions.
●Responsible for conducting quality reviews of SAR completed by other AML analysts in my team.
●Peer review and 2nd line review of SARs.
●Perform payment screening using an automated sanction screening tool on cross-border transactions released/accepted in different currencies and RFI on possible matches.
●PEP/Ultimate Beneficial ownership identification and Negative(Adverse) Media risks and close monitoring of High-risk customers for EDD.
●Training of Team Members to ensure there’s no knowledge gap.
Ecobank Nigeria Plc. 02/2007 – 04/2018
Customer Service Manager/AML/Compliance Specialist
Assessed, analyzed, and examined over 50K cases with over 500M Naira. Coordinated branch cash management operations by enabling zero cash outs and adhering to COP limits. Ensured functionality of branch ATMs at all times by timely resolving faults. Reviewed transactional history and explored potentially suspicious and reportable activity by conforming with standard AML procedures/processes. Escalated reported suspicious transactions by collaborating with operations teams. Trained and coached brand staff to improve competency levels pertaining to AML, KYC, and compliance. Drafted and prepared management reports on department activities and findings and presented to key stakeholders.
●Delivered best-in-class service by administering efficient/effective branch operations while completely complying with the bank’s procedures/processes and regulatory guidelines.
●Maintained strong control awareness in the branch and ensured adequate departmental controls for all products and processes.
●Prevented fraud, money laundering, and identity theft losses by performing in-depth reviews of documentation.
●Maximized effectiveness by facilitating the development of procedural improvements.
●Identified suspicious activities and eliminated discrepancies by analyzing reports.
●Gathered, maintained, updated, and utilized in-depth knowledge of AML laws, including BSA, Patriot Act, and US Treasury guidelines.
●Reviewed work of other team members with diverse backgrounds to ensure cases and SARs were completed according to regulatory compliance policies and procedures.
●Responsible for case quality review management and SAR Quality Assurance prior to submission/completion.
●Quality reviewed peers and drafted Suspicious Activity Reports (SARS Reporting).
●Performed quality reviews and reviews of procedures and processes to ensure compliance by my team members.
●Training of Branch Staff to ensure there’s no knowledge gap.
●Reviewed accounts reported in LEA Letters and enquiries.
Additional Experience
Treasury Unit/AML Analyst Compliance Officer, NAL Bank Plc.
Education
Bachelor of Science, Accounting
Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria
Advanced Diploma in Aviation Management
College of Aviation and Management Studies
Certifications
●Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS), Expected December 2022
●Behavioral Detection Run, October 2022
Affiliations
●Current Member, Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists
●Student Member, Institute of Chartered Accounts of Nigeria
Technical Proficiencies
Excel • Microsoft Word • PowerPoint • Banking Software