AML Senior Associate

Job Title: AML Senior Associate

Location: Houston, Texas

Reports to: AML Officer (AMLO)

About Us: BBVA Global Wealth Advisors (GWA), part of the BBVA Group, is an SEC-registered investment adviser committed to providing exceptional financial advice and investment management services to our clients. We are dedicated to upholding the highest fiduciary standards and ensuring the best interests of our clients is always at the forefront of our operations.

Position Summary: BBVA Global Wealth Advisors is seeking a motivated and analytical AML Senior Associate to join our growing Compliance Team. This role serves as a crucial pillar in our financial crime prevention program. The primary focus of this position is managing Enhanced Due Diligences (EDDs), Ad hoc investigations, AML analytics, regulatory screening, and management reporting (MIS).

Additionally, this role serves a vital cross-functional purpose by providing administrative analysis and periodic support to the broader Compliance team. You will play a key role in protecting the firm from illicit activities while leveraging data to optimize our compliance operations and ensuring strict adherence to all applicable laws and SEC regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

1. AML Analytics, Screening, & Reporting

• General AML Investigations & Reviews: Provide analytical support and conduct reviews for various AML processes as needed, including but not limited to Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) reviews, wire transfer requests reviews, and other ad hoc investigations to support the AML team.
• Metrics & Management Reporting (MIS): Compile, analyze, and distribute monthly AML metrics and management reports to facilitate informed decision-making by senior management, including the CCO.
• Regulatory Screening: Manage daily and weekly alerts related to sanctions (OFAC), Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs), and adverse media screening. Review, disposition, and decide on adverse findings or escalate as appropriate.
• Maintaining Firm's Internal Watchlists: Oversee the accuracy, completeness, and regular updates of internal watchlists, including lists of high-risk individuals, entities, and jurisdictions to ensure timely inclusion or removal of names.
• Data & System Optimization: Maintain and optimize AML analytics data. Work with the AMLO to identify trends, patterns, and anomalies to improve the efficiency and accuracy of our screening systems.
• Internal Audits, Regulatory Exams & Policy Management: Assist the AMLO and CCO in preparing for internal audits, independent testing, and regulatory examinations. This includes gathering data, generating specific reports, pulling requested sample files, helping draft management responses, and assisting with the management, review, and updating of AML policies and procedures.
• Internal Audits & Regulatory Exams: Assist the AMLO and CCO in preparing for internal audits, independent testing, and regulatory examinations. This includes gathering data, generating specific reports, pulling requested sample files, and helping draft management responses.

2. Analysis & Operational Reviews

• Administration: Administer the core systems and databases used by the GWA Compliance and AML.
• Operational Reviews: Conduct routine administrative analysis reviews, ensuring file maintenance, data validation, and document gathering for the unit.
• Process Improvement: Identify potential risks within GWA's Compliance processes and recommend related operational improvements to ensure controls are in place and weaknesses are addressed.

3. General Compliance Support

• Special Projects: Participate in and lead various special projects aimed at enhancing our broader Compliance program, such as system implementations, training initiatives, and internal audit responses.
• BAU & Ad Hoc Requests: Assist with business as usual and various ad hoc requests related to Compliance, as required by the team and business needs.

Qualifications:

The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in Regulatory Compliance and data analysis, demonstrated by:

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business Administration, Data Analytics, Law, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience at a financial institution (Broker-Dealer or RIA preferable) in an AML, Compliance, or Risk Management role.
• Familiarity with U.S. regulations, including the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA), USA PATRIOT Act, and OFAC sanctions programs.
• Strong analytical skills with a proven ability to manage complex data, identify trends, and produce clear, actionable management reporting. Proficient in Excel and other data/reporting tools.
• Proven ability to conduct thorough investigations, analyze information, and make well-reasoned decisions under pressure.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex risk concepts clearly and concisely to diverse audiences.
• High degree of attention to detail and accuracy in all work.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively, shift between analytical and administrative tasks, and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) certification is a plus.

Bilingual (English - Spanish) is highly preferred.