BSA/AML Officer

Synovus•Columbus, GA

About The Position

Manages and oversees the Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) programs for Synovus Securities, Inc. (SSI) including reviewing program procedures and managing the progress of new initiatives or controls. Works with Synovus' corporate AML compliance function promoting alignment without dependence. Ensure general broker-dealer and RIA related compliance standards, policies, and regulations are effectively adhered to via the administration of supervisory standards. Reviews, analyzes, tests, and processes data that could pose potential risk to the firm and/or its clients. Addresses compliance deficiencies and works to implement corrective measures, policies, and/or procedures.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Finance, Public Administration, or related field. Masters Degree in a related field is preferred and may be used in lieu of two years of the experience requirement.
Five (5) years of experience in AML/BSA compliance including KYC, monitoring for unusual activity, investigation and SAR reporting OR similar experience within the financial services industry / regulatory agency segment is preferred.
Synovus Securities Only: Series 7, 24, 63, and 65 (Series 66 license may be used in lieu of Series 63 and 65). GLOBALT Only: Series 65 or 66 license.
Knowledge of AML/BSA and other federal and state banking regulations.
Broad knowledge of the regulatory oversight of the business unit including the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (MSRB)
Strong communication skills and the ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing.
Good interpersonal skills and the ability to interact with individuals of varying personalities.
Strong organizational skills and the ability to maintain information in a logical manner.
Strong analytical and problem solving skills and the ability to break information down into it's basic components for analysis.
Skill identifying unusual patterns/trends.
Strong proficiency using Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

Responsibilities

Manages the development, administration, and monitoring of Compliance programs and processes ensuring SSI is in compliance with AML and BSA regulations governing its operations and product offerings. Researches AML and BSA related compliance deficiencies and develops and implements corrective actions.
Coordinates BSA/AML independent, state, and federal regulatory and auditor examinations and reviews, including managing responses to examination and audit findings. Reviews the results of AML investigations and monitors high risk customers and accounts. Oversees sanction programs, including reviewing escalated sanctions hits.
Maintains relationships with the first line of defense, the Compliance team and Audit staff and carries out various committee responsibilities. Consults with operations staff to identify AML risks posed by new propositions, geographies, and other initiatives including overseeing the closure of accounts and reporting to the board of directors and various committees.
Coordinates with transaction monitoring staff to draft Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) and other regulatory correspondence, such as 314(a) requests for information. Prepares and presents regular reporting to the SSI Board of Directors.
Develop, administer, and monitor programs or processes which ensure the company is in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and rules governing its operations and product offerings. Research compliance deficiencies and assist in developing and implementing corrective actions.
Provide management with information to accurately determine the extent of compliance within the company. Meet with supervisors, management, and senior management, as necessary, to provide information on compliance and/or policy issues.
Monitor legislative and regulatory developments affecting compliance mandates. Identify and investigate suspicious activity which may bring into question the integrity of the company.
May develop, maintain, and implement testing procedures designed to evaluate and measure the company's level of compliance. Maintain documentation and information required for regulatory filing, record-keeping policies, and disclosure requirements.
Maintain a current and valid knowledgebase of applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulatory requirements, and procedures governing the financial services industry, and/or relevant business segment.
Ensures disclosures and published materials are updated and reflect current regulatory and legal requirements. Reviews and approves marketing materials such as advertisements and brochures. Ensure materials and advertised information complies with applicable regulations, rules, and/or regulatory requirements.
May serve as an administrator for one or more information systems; work with Information Technology and/or third party vendor to maintain the technology, conduct system maintenance, resolve technical problems, etc. May coordinate, maintain, and update the information available through an internet/intranet portal.
May provide training to new and/or lower-level Compliance Officers. Consult with division team members on compliance related issues and provide training when necessary. May coordinate and/or facilitate training programs.
Provide leadership and direction to members of the department, performing those responsibilities in accordance with the company's policies and applicable laws. May provide input on interviewing, hiring, planning, assigning or directing work, or appraising performance.
Each team member is expected to be aware of risk within their functional area. This includes observing all policies, procedures, laws, regulations and risk limits specific to their role. Additionally, they should raise and report known or suspected violations to the appropriate Company authority in a timely fashion.
Performs other related duties as required.