Senior Compliance Officer

General Description

This position requires strategic leadership in the deployment, maintenance, and development of the Regulatory & Financial Compliance Training Program across all Popular companies. The Senior Compliance Officer will independently manage compliance training initiatives, lead the design and implementation of First Line Training Programs, and mentor interns. The role includes oversight of internal audits and regulatory examinations, ensuring timely escalation and resolution of concerns to mitigate regulatory risks. This position demands a high level of autonomy, strategic thinking, and influence across departments.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

•    Independently lead the development, deployment, and oversight of the yearly Regulatory & Financial Compliance Training Program, including strategic planning and cross-functional coordination. This includes, but is not limited to, designing the structure of the training program, preparing, and delivering roll-out presentations across all Popular companies, developing training materials, and monitoring and ensuring compliance with the program.
•    Lead data collection and analysis for audits, revisions, and regulatory exams, ensuring timely and accurate responses.
•    Serve as liaison during regulatory examinations, managing documentation and resolution of identified issues.
•    Participate in Internal Audit reviews, ensuring timely closure of findings and implementation of corrective actions.
•    Design and implement First Line of Defense training programs with minimal supervision.
•    Conduct strategic assessments of training needs for compliance professionals through job analysis, performance appraisals, and consultation with senior compliance managers.
•    Develop and execute individualized training and development plans for compliance professionals.
•    Oversee CLE credit submission processes and ensure compliance with continuing education requirements. 
•    Lead training data management initiatives, including dashboard creation and implementation of advanced data solutions.
•    Oversee compliance training reporting and present insights to Popular’s senior leadership, identifying trends and recommending improvements.
•    Mentor junior compliance officers and interns and provide guidance on training program execution and regulatory matters.

Education

 Bachelor’s degree in business administration or related fields (required). Advanced certifications in compliance or training management are highly desirable.

Juris Doctor (preferred).

Experience

Must have at least 5 years of experience in consumer protection regulations, compliance training, or operational compliance within the financial industry. Demonstrated expertise in banking operations and regulatory frameworks. 

Other Qualifications

•    Licensed as attorney in at least one jurisdiction (preferred).
•    Proficiency in Excel (required).  
•    Knowledge in training design tools such as Canva and Vyond.
•    Exceptional communication skills in Spanish and English, with proven ability to influence and lead cross-functional initiatives.
•    Superior time management and organizational skills, with ability to manage multiple high-impact projects independently.
•    Strategic mindset with strong analytical and critical thinking skills to evaluate and enhance training programs.
•    Proven ability to influence, mediate, and drive process improvements with high attention to detail.
•    Leadership capabilities to promote a culture of learning and development across the organization.
•    Creative and innovative approach to training design, especially in legal and risk management subjects.
•    Ability to research, track, and communicate complex compliance concerns effectively.
•    Up-to-date knowledge of regulatory trends, enforcement actions, and industry best practices.
•    Proactive and driven personality, embracing innovation and technology in training delivery. 

Values