Job Description

General Summary

The Executive Director of BSA, AML and Sanctions Program Execution is a senior leadership role within the Compliance Department, responsible for leading the execution and operational oversight of the Bank’s Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Sanctions programs across the U.S. Corporate & Investment Banking (CIB) footprint—including both the New York Branch (NYB), BBVA Securities Inc. (BSI), and the Houston Representative Office (HRO). This position reports directly to the US Head of BSA/AML and Sanctions Compliance for CIB.

This role provides strategic, people-focused leadership to the AML Program and the Sanctions Program. The ideal candidate will bring a balanced combination of technical expertise in AML and Sanctions compliance, strong people and process management capabilities, and a dynamic, solutions-oriented approach to support a growing business. As the business evolves, the Executive Director will play a pivotal role in evaluating emerging risks, supporting the launch of new products and services, and working collaboratively across multiple jurisdictions.

The Executive Director will also work closely with CIB Compliance in Madrid as well as U.S.-based business and infrastructure partners, ensuring consistent and effective communication and execution of compliance standards.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead and manage AML and Sanctions program operations across the U.S. CIB entities, with direct oversight of dedicated program managers and functional teams.

- Serve as a strategic advisor and escalation point on AML and Sanctions issues, partnering with senior management to align compliance frameworks with risk appetite and business goals.

- Monitor the effectiveness of transaction monitoring systems (e.g., Oracle), oversee daily OFAC review processes (e.g., Fircosoft), and guide customer onboarding due diligence.

- Approve and support the preparation of critical regulatory deliverables, including OFAC blocked/rejected funds reports, Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs), and FinCEN 314(a) reporting.

- Identify and escalate compliance risks, propose mitigations and controls, and lead the implementation of corrective actions.

- Foster a culture of accountability, integrity, and continuous improvement within the AML and Sanctions teams.

- Lead and develop focused training for Compliance, Client Onboarding, and Operations support personnel as needed.

- Present, answer questions, and field requests from U.S. regulators during annual regulatory examinations, including the Federal Reserve Bank (FRB) and New York Department of Financial Services (NY DFS), as well as internal/external auditors regarding AML and Sanctions program activities.

- Provide input into risk assessments for new products, services, clients, and business lines as part of the Bank’s broader risk management framework.

- Collaborate effectively with Compliance teams in Madrid and U.S. business/infrastructure teams to ensure regulatory alignment and operational consistency across geographies.

- Lead and support strategic projects and initiatives related to program transformation and growth.

Qualifications and Experience

- Bachelor’s degree required.

- Advanced degree strongly preferred (e.g., JD, MBA).

- At least 7–10 years of progressive experience in AML and Sanctions Compliance within a financial institution, with specific experience supporting CIB or wholesale banking activities.

- CAMS certification required. CGSS or other relevant professional certifications are desirable.

- Demonstrated experience managing high-performing compliance teams and fostering leadership development.

- Proven ability to interface with senior stakeholders and build collaborative working relationships across jurisdictions and functions.

- Strong command of U.S. AML and Sanctions laws and regulations (BSA, USA PATRIOT Act, OFAC), KYC requirements, and knowledge of SWIFT messaging protocols.

- Excellent investigative, analytical, and communication skills, including experience with SAR drafting and escalation practices.

- Experience working with regulators (e.g., FRB, NY DFS) and internal/external audit frameworks.

- Fluency in Spanish and knowledge of financial regulations in Spain, EU and Latam are desirable.

- Self-starter with the ability to operate independently, exercise discretion, and prioritize responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The successful candidate will be a collaborative, solutions-driven leader with a deep understanding of AML and Sanctions regulatory requirements in a CIB context. They will bring a proactive mindset to managing risk in a growing and evolving business environment, and be adept at balancing regulatory expectations with commercial realities. The ability to operate confidently across geographies—particularly in partnership with Madrid-based stakeholders—is essential.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

With respect to this position in our New York Office, the expected base salary ranges from $210,000 to $240,000. It is not typical for offers to be made at or near the top of the range. Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. In addition to salary and a generous employee benefits package, successful candidates are eligible to receive a discretionary bonus.

*Employment eligibility to work with BBVA in the U.S. is required as the company will not pursue visa sponsorship for these positions

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