The Global Risk & Compliance (GRC) organization serves as American Express’ independent risk management function. GRC maintains the enterprise risk framework, provides oversight and challenge, and monitors key risks. By embedding risk discipline into strategy and operations, GRC enables responsible growth, innovation, and long-term value creation while protecting customers and shareholders.
Reporting to the Director, GFCC EMEA Program Enablement, this role sits within the Global Financial Crimes Compliance (GFCC) function and supports the design, enhancement, and execution of the EMEA financial crime control framework.
The role is focused on translating regulatory requirements into effective, scalable controls across AML, Sanctions, and Anti-Corruption, while driving consistency, quality, and continuous improvement across the region.
Responsibilities- Act as a Financial Crime Subject Matter Expert, supporting the design and enhancement of key controls (e.g., Transaction Monitoring, Customer Risk Rating, Screening).
- Translate regulatory requirements and policy expectations into practical, well-designed and effective controls and processes.
- Drive implementation of control enhancements and program initiatives across EMEA in partnership with MCOs/MLROs and central GFCC teams.
- Support harmonisation and standardisation of policies, procedures, and alert management processes across the region.
- Lead and support remediation activities (audit findings, regulatory issues, MAP/RAP), ensuring sustainable control uplift.
- Provide credible challenge to 1LoD and 2LoD stakeholders on financial crime risk management practices.
- Use data and insights to inform decision-making and improve program effectiveness.
- Contribute to change management efforts, ensuring successful adoption of new processes and controls.
What We’re Looking For:
- Strong Financial Crime SME with deep knowledge of AML, Sanctions, and/or Anti-Corruption controls.
- Proven experience in interpreting regulation and implementing effective controls within a financial institution.
- Solid understanding of EU/UK regulatory landscape.
- Experience in driving change and delivering complex initiatives across multiple stakeholders.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence and challenge constructively.
- Proactive, hands-on, and solution-oriented mindset with a “can-do” attitude.
Qualifications
- 7+ years’ experience in Financial Crime Compliance (preferably 2LoD)
- Relevant degree and/or certifications (e.g., ACAMS, ICA)
Employment eligibility to work with American Express in the UK is required as the company will not pursue visa sponsorship for these positions.
About UsAt American Express, our culture is built on a 175-year history of innovation, shared values and Leadership Behaviors, and an unwavering commitment to back our customers, communities, and colleagues. From delivering differentiated products to providing world-class customer service, we operate with a strong risk mindset, ensuring we continue to uphold our brand promise of trust, security, and service.
As part of Team Amex, you’ll experience our powerful backing with comprehensive support for your holistic well-being and many opportunities to learn new skills, develop as a leader, and grow your career. Here, your voice and ideas matter, your work makes an impact, and together, you will help us define the future of American Express.
About the TeamWe back you with benefits that support your holistic well-being so you can be and deliver your best. This means caring for you and your loved ones' physical, financial, and mental health, as well as providing the flexibility you need to thrive personally and professionally:
- Competitive base salaries
- Bonus incentives
- Support for financial-well-being and retirement
- Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and disability benefits (depending on location)
- Flexible working model with hybrid, onsite or virtual arrangements depending on role and business need
- Generous paid parental leave policies (depending on your location)
- Free access to global on-site wellness centers staffed with nurses and doctors (depending on location)
- Free and confidential counseling support through our Healthy Minds program
- Career development and training opportunities
Offer of employment with American Express is conditioned upon the successful completion of a background verification check, subject to applicable laws and regulations.
American Express London, England Office
London, United Kingdom
