Sr. Analyst - Transaction Monitoring AML & Financial Crimes Financial Intelligence Unit

Under limited supervision, the AML Analyst applies specialized knowledge and skills in securities and/or banking industry compliance, gained through experience, specialized training and/or certification, to monitor and investigate transactions for suspicious activity,  ensuring  compliance with AML rules and regulations. This role includes leading projects of moderate scope and complexity and serving as a technical advisor to various business lines. The AML Analysts is responsible for resolving or recommending solutions to complex problems and will have extensive contact with internal stakeholders/Financial Advisors/Branch personnel to identify, research, resolve potential issues. If suspicious activity is identified, the investigator is required to promptly report any suspicious activity by filing a Suspicious Activity Report (SAR) and follow through the client retention process.

Responsibilities:

• Investigate potentially suspicious activity arising from automated transaction monitoring system, branch escalations, regulatory investigations, or matters escalated by various business lines including Compliance, Legal, Risk or other Firm divisions.

• Review client background information, securities transactions, and fund movements to identify potential money laundering, terrorist financing, or other financial crimes.

• Conduct thorough investigation utilizing internal and external searches on the clients, third parties, and identify any negative news.

• Send 314(b) requests and Requests for Information (“RFI”) to branches as needed.

• Prepare a detailed SARs (Suspicious Activity Reports) and file with FINCEN.

• Conduct continuing activity reviews and report any continuation of suspicious activity.

• Perform Level 2 (L2) reviews and request retention decision from the AML officers; follow through on the account closure for terminated relationships.

• Communicate findings to senior leadership in a thorough write-up including risk factors and supporting evidence for retention decision.

• Administer AML policies and procedures to ensure compliance with regulations related to money laundering included in the US PATRIOT Act.

• Monitor regulatory developments and industry trends to facilitate incorporation into the Firms’ AML program.

• Train team members on internal AML policies, processes, rules, and regulations.

• Deliver presentations during departmental/team meetings.

• Inform senior management about issues that may involve rule violations or potential liability.

• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Skills:

• Strong SAR writing/narrative skills, including justification for suspicion.

• Knowledge of securities industry and/or banking compliance practices.

• Familiarity with rules and regulations of the US PATRIOT Act.

• Understanding of investment concepts, financial markets, and banking industry.

• Experience administering AML policies and procedures.

• Ability to analyze transactional activity to identify suspicious pattern.

• Skilled in developing and delivering training.

• Strong planning and organizational skills and being able to track work in progress to meet regulatory and internal requirements.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to work under pressure on multiple tasks concurrently and meet deadlines in a fast-paced work environment with frequent interruptions and changing priorities.

• Work independently as well as collaboratively within a team environment.

• High level of customer service and confidentiality.

• Commitment to staying current with AML regulations and best practices.

Licenses/Certifications:

• CAMS certification is required to be obtained within 12 months of the hire date.