American Express

Director - Independent Compliance Testing; Operations Lead

American Express • $120K — $150K *
Charlotte, NC 28269In-Person
Finance & Insurance
5 - 7 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5+ years of experience in compliance, audit, or risk management.
  • Expertise in compliance testing methodologies and internal controls.
  • Knowledge of relevant laws and regulations for the financial sector.
  • Proficient in preparing executive-level reports and presentations.
  • Strong leadership experience in a matrixed organization.
  • Ability to identify and assess compliance risks effectively.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills for stakeholder engagement.

Responsibilities

  • Lead governance of the Independent Compliance Testing program and annual planning.
  • Oversee the entire testing lifecycle ensuring quality and consistency.
  • Collaborate with other compliance and audit functions to coordinate activities.
  • Support regulatory examinations and audits by managing program responses.
  • Prepare and deliver executive reporting and governance materials.
  • Enhance the ICT framework and related processes and technologies.
  • Develop and mentor a high-performance testing team.

Benefits

  • Opportunities for professional development and training programs.
  • Access to advanced tools and technology.
  • Supportive work environment that promotes collaboration and accountability.
  • Potential for career growth within a highly matrixed organization.
Full Job Description
Job Description

The Director of Independent Compliance Testing (ICT) - Operations Lead is responsible for the governance and continuous enhancement of the U.S. Independent Compliance Testing framework, aimed at ensuring business activities align with applicable regulatory requirements and internal compliance standards and methodologies.

This role provides operational leadership for the U.S. testing program while partnering closely with senior stakeholders across the enterprise to drive a strong culture of compliance and effective risk management. The Director is accountable for overseeing the annual testing program, supporting regulatory and audit engagement, enhancing the testing framework, and ensuring consistent execution of control- and outcome-based testing in alignment with other Independent Risk Management (IRM) functions across the enterprise.

Responsibilities

The Director will provide general support to the VP of U.S. Independent Compliance Testing- Privacy and Fairness, to ensure effective and efficient operations including:
  • Lead the governance of the ICT program, ensuring timely delivery on the annual plan
  • Oversee the end-to-end testing lifecycle, including QC of announcement memos, testing workpapers, reports, and issue validation activities to ensure consistency, accuracy, and effective risk identification
  • Partner with other IRM functions, Audit, and other key stakeholders to support annual planning, coordinate testing activities, and promote consistent application of testing methodologies
  • Support regulatory examinations and internal audits by coordinating program responses and ensuring the timely delivery of requested materials.
  • Lead the preparation and delivery of executive reporting, management information (MIS), and governance committee materials, communicating program results and emerging risks to senior leadership.
  • Drive the continuous enhancement of the ICT framework, including policies, procedures, methodologies, templates, reporting, training materials, and supporting technology solutions.
  • Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing team, fostering collaboration, accountability, and continuous professional development.
  • Promote operational excellence by enhancing ICT processes, governance, controls, and technology to improve efficiency, consistency, and scalability.


Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Demonstrated ability to lead multiple strategic initiatives and manage competing priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
  • Strong people leadership skills with a proven ability to coach, develop, motivate, and influence high-performing teams.
  • Exceptional relationship management skills with the ability to collaborate and influence across all levels of the organization.
  • Excellent written, verbal, presentation, analytical, and organizational skills.
  • Strong problem-solving capabilities, attention to detail, and sound professional judgment.
  • Self-motivated, adaptable, and able to operate effectively both independently and within a highly collaborative environment.
  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint); experience with AI-enabled productivity tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Claude) is a plus.


Experience:
  • 5+ years of experience in compliance, internal or external audit, compliance testing, internal controls, operational risk, or a related risk management discipline.
  • Strong knowledge of compliance testing methodologies, internal control frameworks, and control- and outcome-based testing practices.
  • Working knowledge of the laws, rules, and regulations applicable to American Express businesses.
  • Experience developing executive-level reporting and communicating program outcomes to senior management, governance committees, regulators, and auditors.
  • Demonstrated success leading teams and driving results within a complex, highly matrixed organization.
  • Strong understanding of banking operations, products, systems, and business processes.
  • Proven ability to identify compliance risks, assess root causes, and recommend practical, sustainable solutions.
  • Excellent collaboration, stakeholder management, presentation, and project management skills.
  • Ability to translate complex regulatory and technical concepts into practical business guidance.


Preferred Qualifications:
  • CRCM, CAMS, or related designation/certification preferred
  • Bachelor's or advanced degree preferred


Employment eligibility to work with American Express in the United States is required as the company will not pursue visa sponsorship for these positions.

The below represents the expected salary range for this job requisition. Ultimately, in determining your pay, we'll consider your location, experience, and other job-related factors.

About American Express

Amex provides industrial services to the coatings and linings sector, providing support for commercial, industrial, and maritime projects such as petrochemical, power, and water treatment industries. They offer painting services for steel structures, storage tank linings and coatings, pipelines, floors, and marine vessels such as ships, tugboats, and barges.

American Express Careers

Join the vibrant team at American Express, a global leader in financial services, and be part of a company that values innovation, leadership, and diversity. At American Express, we offer more than just job opportunities; we provide a platform for professional growth and a chance to be part of a culture that is committed to excellence and inclusive growth. Work You’ll Do At American Express, we are dedicated to helping our employees reach their full potential. With a variety of career paths available in areas such as technology, marketing, finance, and customer service, American Express is the perfect place to advance your career. Our team is composed of highly skilled professionals who thrive on innovation and collaboration. Join our team and contribute to a company known for its prestigious history of leadership in the credit card industry. Engage in meaningful work that makes a real impact on our global scale business operations. American Express Leadership and Development Programs We believe in nurturing the leadership skills of our employees with extensive training programs and leadership development opportunities. Our commitment to professional growth is evident in our comprehensive benefits package that supports both personal and professional development. Internship Opportunities Start your career with an internship at American Express and gain valuable industry experience. Our internships offer a chance to develop skills, work on challenging projects, and learn from leaders in the industry. Interns at American Express are considered integral members of the team and are given responsibilities that provide a real insight into their future career paths. Diversity and Inclusion At American Express, diversity and inclusion are at the core of our company culture. We are committed to building a diverse workforce and inclusive environment where every employee feels valued and inspired. We offer diversity training programs that empower our employees to thrive and lead in a global marketplace. Networking and Innovation Our employees enjoy unparalleled opportunities for networking and personal growth through our global connections and innovative projects. American Express encourages a culture of innovation that helps propel our company and your career forward. Career Benefits and Growth American Express is dedicated to the growth of its employees. We offer competitive benefits, including health, retirement plans, and family leave, ensuring that our team members have the support they need to succeed both at work and in their personal lives. Join Our Team Explore the job opportunities and open positions at American Express. We are continuously hiring talented individuals who are passionate about their careers and interested in working for a company that offers a dynamic and supportive environment. Stay Connected Keep up to date with the latest from American Express Careers by following our career blog and signing up for job alert emails. Tailor your subscription to receive updates that match your skills and interests. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await at American Express. SEARCH AMERICAN EXPRESS JOBS Whether you are looking for a full-time position, an internship, or a leadership opportunity, American Express offers a path to a rewarding career. Join us and make a difference with your passion, creativity, and drive.
Learn more about American Express
Size
64,000 employees
Market Cap
$108.1 billion
Industry
Finance & Insurance
Net Income
$3.1 billion
Founded
1850
5 Year Trend
+3.5%
Revenue
$37 billion
NASDAQ
AXP
* Ladders Estimates

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