American Express

Director, KYC Strategy

American Express$130K — $180K *
Finance & Insurance
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 8-10+ years in financial crime compliance or KYC strategy within financial services.
  • Expertise in global KYC regulatory frameworks and compliance requirements.
  • Experience leading large-scale transformation programs in complex organizations.
  • Strong understanding of KYC operating model design and governance standards.
  • Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders across multiple regions and units.
  • Exceptional program management skills, including risk and issue management.
  • Strong analytical, strategic thinking capabilities, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and execute the Global KYC POA framework and operational models.
  • Define and deliver future-state merchant KYC strategies balancing compliance and experience.
  • Oversee global KYC remediation and transformation programs with effective governance.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to implement scalable KYC processes.
  • Standardize KYC procedures and governance frameworks across businesses.
  • Manage program risks and issues, ensuring timely resolution.
  • Utilize data insights to enhance KYC decision-making and operational effectiveness.
  • Influence leadership and cross-functional teams on strategic initiatives.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
  • Retirement savings plan with company match.
  • Flexible working environment promoting work-life balance.
  • Professional development opportunities and training programs.
Full Job Description
Job Description

The Director, KYC POA Strategy is part of the Global Merchant Operations team within the Global Merchant & Network Services (GMNS) business unit. The Global Merchant Operations team partners across the business to enable trusted and frictionless merchant experiences by delivering resilient, compliant, and efficient operational processes that safeguard our network, reduce our operational and financial crimes risk and power sustainable growth. The Director, GMNS KYC POA Strategy sits within the Global Merchant Operations team and will lead the development and execution of the global KYC POA strategy across merchant onboarding, refresh methodology, operating model design, decisioning logic and procedural / playbook standards.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the strategy and execution of the Global KYC POA framework, including onboarding KYC POA, merchant refresh methodology, operating model design, decisioning logic, and procedural/playbook standards.
  • Define, socialize, and deliver future-state merchant KYC strategies that balance regulatory compliance obligations with an efficient and frictionless merchant experience.
  • Oversee and execute global KYC remediation and transformation programs, ensuring effective program governance, coordination, and delivery.
  • Partner closely with business leaders, Control Management, second line of defense, Technology, Operations, and other critical stakeholders to design and implement scalable KYC operating models and processes.
  • Drive the development and standardization of KYC procedures, governance frameworks, controls, and playbooks across geographies and business segments.
  • Continuously identify, assess, prioritize, and manage program risks and issues, ensuring timely mitigation, escalation, and resolution where appropriate.
  • Use data-driven insights and strategic analysis to improve KYC decisioning, operational effectiveness, regulatory adherence, and customer experience outcomes.
  • Influence cross-functional teams and senior leaders to align on strategic priorities, operating model enhancements, and execution roadmaps.
  • Leadership & Execution
  • Lead and develop a team, driving effective KYC POA Strategy across onboarding and refresh


Qualifications

  • 8-10+ years of experience in financial crime compliance, KYC strategy, risk management, onboarding, or related functions within financial services.
  • Deep expertise in KYC regulatory frameworks, processes, merchant/customer refresh methodologies, and compliance requirements across global markets.
  • Proven experience leading large-scale transformation, remediation, or operational excellence programmes in complex, matrixed organisations.
  • Strong understanding of KYC operating model design, workflow optimisation, decisioning frameworks, and governance standards.
  • Demonstrated ability to influence senior stakeholders and drive strategic outcomes across multiple business units and geographies without direct authority.
  • Exceptional program management skills, including risk management, issue resolution, executive communication, and cross-functional coordination.
  • Strong analytical and strategic thinking capabilities with the ability to translate complex regulatory and operational requirements into scalable business solutions.
  • Experience leading and developing high-performing teams in global environments.
  • Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.
  • Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree or relevant compliance certifications 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.

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
Net Income
$3.1 billion
Founded
1850
5 Year Trend
+3.5%
Revenue
$37 billion
NASDAQ

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