Job Description

American Express’s US Investigations Unit (USIU) is part of the broader Global Risk & Compliance organization, operating within Global Financial Crimes Compliance (GFCC). USIU provides oversight and support for global financial crimes investigations. In partnership with teams across the financial crimes’ organization, USIU develops and implements transaction monitoring rules, reports, and other tools to detect potential criminal activity. They investigate suspicious financial behavior and, when necessary, file Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) or refer cases to internal compliance partners for global reporting. USIU plays a vital role in ensuring compliance with key regulations, including the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) and the USA PATRIOT Act. They also support law enforcement by providing critical information to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, credit card fraud, identity theft, and other financial crimes.

The successful candidate will lead a team of high-performing Special Investigations analysts conducting complex and sensitive investigations into matters such as Human Trafficking, Arms Proliferation, Trade Based Money laundering, Wildlife Trafficking, Terrorist Financing, and Public Corruption. In addition, they will assist with project management and identifying enhancements to the USIU investigative process, provide trend updates to leadership, partner with various teams and leaders within GFCC and across the company, and interact with law enforcement. The successful candidate must have excellent investigative, communication, and time management skills, the ability to effectively manage change and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.

The successful candidate will lead a team of high-performing Special Investigations analysts conducting complex and sensitive investigations into matters such as Human Trafficking, Arms Proliferation, Trade Based Money laundering, Wildlife Trafficking, Terrorist Financing, and Public Corruption. In addition, they will assist with project management and identifying enhancements to the USIU investigative process, provide trend updates to leadership, partner with various teams and leaders within GFCC and across the company, and interact with law enforcement. The successful candidate must have excellent investigative, communication, and time management skills, the ability to effectively manage change and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.

• Lead a team of Special Investigations analysts conducting complex AML investigations, including providing training and coaching, monitoring team and individual performance, and supporting team dynamics.

• Conduct case reviews and investigations, including filing Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs), to ensure compliance with policies and procedures as well as timeliness of individual work product.

• Identify and assess potential money-laundering risks and behaviors associated with financial crimes and criminal activity.

• Analyze large quantities of information, identify trends and opportunities, and manage in an ever-changing environment.

• Work closely with the other leaders to manage change, including building processes, identifying potential improvements, and implementing solutions.

• Develop and maintain adequate and up-to-date knowledge of the financial crime environment for yourself and ensure proper awareness for all team members.

• Liaise with law enforcement, other financial institutions, and industry groups.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.

• 6+ years of work experience in a financial services institution in any of the following areas is highly preferred: Anti-Money Laundering, Suspicious Activity Reporting, financial crime, cyber security, KYC, enhanced due diligence; or pertinent law enforcement experience.

• Experienced leader, capable of driving performance by coaching and motivating people for success, identifying their strengths and opportunities.

• Extensive experience in conducting financial crime investigations.

• Deep understanding of criminal typologies associated with a wide array of financial products and services.

• Strong knowledge of global AML/CTF/ABC Regulations (BSA, US PATRIOT Act).

• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and collaborate with Amex business, legal, and compliance partners.

• Must possess effective oral communication and excellent writing skills, including the ability to present and summarize information for senior leaders.

• Ability to demonstrate strategic thinking, implement innovation and change, introduce and champion new processes.

• Ability to influence, gain support, and resolve conflict.

• Ability to handle sensitive information in a confidential and professional manner.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Direct people leader experience.

• Strives for excellence and is willing to take on additional responsibilities to produce outstanding work.

• Master’s Degree or other advanced degree.

• CAMS and/or CFE certified or equivalent.

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

At 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.