Futures Compliance - Executive Director

Mizuho•Chicago, IL

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Executive Director of Futures Compliance will serve as a senior compliance leader for the Firm’s Futures Commission Merchant (FCM) business, with primary responsibility for overseeing compliance with CFTC, NFA, and futures exchange requirements. Reporting directly to the Chief Compliance Officer (CCO), this role will provide strategic and day-to-day compliance oversight of the Firm’s futures and options on futures activities, including customer protection, supervision, and regulatory engagement. The ideal candidate will bring deep FCM regulatory expertise, strong leadership capabilities, and a practical, risk-based approach to compliance in a highly regulated operating environment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required; Advance degree or JD strongly preferred
10+ years of futures compliance experience within an FCM, exchange, regulator, or comparable regulated entity
Extensive knowledge of CFTC and NFA regulations applicable to FCMs, including customer protection, supervision, and financial requirements
Strong knowledge of global derivatives regimes (EMIR, UK/EU requirements) as they impact FCM activity.
Experience with electronic trading platforms, algorithmic trading controls, and trade surveillance systems.
Demonstrated experience leading or managing CFTC and exchange examinations
Strong understanding of FCM operational workflows, including clearing, margin, collateral, and reporting
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience interacting directly with regulators and senior management
Strong regulatory judgment and ability to provide clear, practical guidance
Confident and credible presence with regulators and internal stakeholders
Highly organized with strong attention to detail
Ability to balance regulatory requirements with business and operational realities

Responsibilities

Oversee and manage the Firm’s futures compliance program for the FCM, including policies, procedures, supervisory controls, and compliance infrastructure
Advise the CCO, senior management, and business stakeholders on CFTC, NFA, ESMA, FCA and exchange rules applicable to FCM operations
Provide compliance coverage to futures trading, sales, operations, clearing, margin, and risk management functions
Review and approve new products, customers, trading strategies, and business initiatives from a futures regulatory perspective
Manage regulatory examinations, audits, inquiries, and ongoing communications with the CFTC, NFA, and futures exchanges
Monitor regulatory developments and lead implementation of new or amended futures regulations impacting the FCM
Oversee testing, monitoring, and issue management related to futures trading, operations, and financial requirements
Develop and deliver compliance training for registered persons and relevant staff
Conduct compliance risk assessments and contribute to the Firm’s overall compliance risk framework.
Develop compliance metrics, key risk indicators (KRIs), and senior management reporting.
Promote a strong culture of regulatory compliance, ethical conduct, and supervisory accountability.
Manage and mentor derivatives compliance staff.
Participate in compliance committees, risk forums, senior management governance groups, as well as industry working groups.
Escalate material compliance issues to the CCO and assist in investigations, remediation, and regulatory responses
Act as a senior leader within the compliance department and contribute to firm-wide compliance initiatives