VP/AML Investigations Manager

Bank OZK•Fort Smith, NT

About The Position

The VP/AML Investigations Manager is responsible for managing the AML Investigations team and overseeing workstreams that perform AML investigations. The role ensures investigations are completed timely and recommended Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) are submitted to FinCEN according to departmental guidelines. The manager leads and mentors analysts, assigns and reviews cases, monitors quality-review results, and provides coaching. The position also reviews high-risk transactions and completed investigations and SARs, refers higher-risk customers for consideration on the high-risk customer list, and recommends ending customer relationships when suspicious activity warrants it. The role supports 314(b) requests, criminal subpoenas, fraud-risk work, and preparation for examinations and audits, while also assisting other BSA Administration teams as needed.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in finance, criminal justice, or a related field, or commensurate work experience.
At least four years of work experience in AML or a comparable field.
At least two years of work experience in a financial institution.
At least two years of experience leading, supervising, or managing others.
Comprehensive knowledge of investigations and investigative techniques using the Internet, public websites, and third-party repositories.
Comprehensive knowledge of BSA/AML laws, including the Bank Secrecy Act, USA PATRIOT Act, U.S. Treasury AML guidelines, and OFAC requirements.
Knowledge of AML monitoring software and case management systems.
Ability to multitask and prioritize work projects to meet deadlines.
Ability to use discretion and sound judgment in decision-making.
Effective verbal and written communication skills, including presentation skills.
Ability to manage remote staff effectively.
Ability to travel for business purposes.
Initiative and accountability in meeting work objectives.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Effective organizational, time-management, and project-management skills.
Attention to detail.
Skill using computers and Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
Ability to operate customary equipment and technology used in a business environment, with or without accommodation.

Nice To Haves

AML experience preferably focused on SAR investigations.
Professional certification such as CAMS, CFE, CBAP, or CRCM, or another related certification; alternatively, willingness to obtain certification.

Responsibilities

Manage, lead, and mentor AML Investigations Analysts, ensuring they have the training and resources needed to perform effectively.
Ensure AML investigation cases are assigned timely.
Oversee analysts to ensure appropriate dispositions are reached on AML investigation cases.
Monitor AML Quality Review results and provide analysts with coaching and feedback.
Collaborate with Quality Review and AML Investigations Lead Analysts to identify coaching opportunities and support optimal analyst performance.
Review high-risk customer transactions to identify unusual and potentially suspicious activity.
Review completed AML investigation cases and SARs for accuracy and completeness.
Identify higher-risk customers through transaction monitoring and account reviews and refer them to the AML Operations and Sanctions Director for inclusion on the high-risk customer list.
Recommend exiting customer relationships to the AML Investigations Director due to suspected illegal, unusual, or unauthorized activity.
Assist with 314(b) requests and the criminal subpoena process as needed.
Work with the Bank’s Fraud Risk Management team to identify criminal and potentially criminal activity against the Bank or its customers.
Assist in preparing documentation for upcoming examinations and audits, as requested.
Assist other teams within BSA Administration and perform other duties as necessary.