Chief AML Officer

  • Chicago, IL
  • Salary: $200,000 - $300,000

Smith Arnold Partners

Join a globally respected financial services and fintech organization that operates at the intersection of capital markets, technology, and innovation. Serving institutional and individual investors across international markets, the firm is recognized for its technology-driven approach, commitment to operational excellence, and ability to deliver sophisticated trading and investment solutions on a global scale. With a culture that values intelligent problem-solving, continuous improvement, and regulatory integrity, this is an opportunity to make a significant impact within a highly visible leadership role.

What Employees Are Saying

“Fast-paced environment where leadership is trusted to make meaningful impact.”
“Strong focus on innovation and using technology to solve complex regulatory challenges.”
“Exceptional benefits, collaborative teams, and opportunities to influence enterprise-wide strategy.”

Title: Chief AML Officer
Location: Chicago, IL (On-site)
Compensation: $200,000 – $300,000 Base Salary + Bonus + Equity Potential

Why This Opportunity?
This is a rare opportunity to lead a sophisticated, enterprise-wide Anti-Money Laundering (AML) program for a globally recognized financial services organization serving millions of clients worldwide.
You’ll have executive-level visibility and the ability to shape AML strategy, influence technology investments, and lead a large compliance organization while partnering directly with Legal, Compliance, Operations, and senior leadership teams.
What Makes This Role Stand Out?

Executive leadership position with significant influence across the organization
Lead a large AML function and team of approximately 200 professionals
Drive innovation through automation, surveillance enhancements, and advanced compliance technologies
Competitive compensation, bonus potential, and equity opportunities
Outstanding benefits, professional development support, and work-life perks

Key Responsibilities

Lead and oversee the firm’s enterprise-wide AML compliance program.
Serve as the primary contact for regulators, law enforcement agencies, and financial crime-related inquiries.
Manage and develop a large team of AML professionals.
Ensure AML policies and procedures remain aligned with evolving regulatory requirements.
Partner with technology teams to enhance monitoring, surveillance, and automation capabilities.
Oversee customer due diligence (CDD), enhanced due diligence (EDD), and KYC programs.
Develop and deliver AML compliance training initiatives.
Support regulatory examinations, investigations, and audit remediation efforts.
Drive operational efficiency while maintaining strong risk management standards.

Requirements & Qualifications
Required Experience

7+ years of AML compliance experience within a broker-dealer, financial institution, or similar regulated environment.
Demonstrated experience managing AML teams and compliance operations.
Deep knowledge of AML regulations, including BSA, FinCEN, SEC, FINRA, and CFTC requirements.
CAMS certification (or equivalent) required.
Experience with AML transaction monitoring and case management systems.
Strong understanding of KYC, CDD, and EDD frameworks.

Preferred Qualifications

Series 24 registration or ability to obtain shortly after hire.
Experience leading AML programs supporting international clients and complex financial products.
Proven ability to balance regulatory obligations with business objectives.
Strong technology aptitude with experience leveraging automation and data-driven compliance solutions.

Success Profile

Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills.
Strong executive presence and communication abilities.
Highly organized with excellent time-management skills.
Self-starter capable of operating independently in a dynamic environment.
Collaborative leader who can influence stakeholders across multiple departments.

Benefits & Perks

Annual performance-based bonus
Equity/stock award opportunities
401(k) with company match
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
Generous paid parental leave
Life and disability insurance
Flexible spending accounts (FSA)
Quarterly fitness reimbursement
Professional development and tuition assistance
Telehealth and wellness programs
Backup childcare and eldercare support
Daily meal allowance and complimentary snacks

Ready to Lead Financial Crime Compliance at Scale?
If you’re a strategic AML leader seeking a high-impact executive role where compliance, technology, and innovation intersect, this opportunity offers the platform to make a lasting impact while advancing your career.

Application

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Your Recruiter

Tim Maher

Senior Accounting / Finance Recruiter