Chief Compliance Officer

Job Title: Chief Compliance Officer

Type: Part/Full Time Remote

Department: Compliance & Risk

Reports to: CEO

Company Overview

We are an early stage FINTRAC regulated financial technology company revolutionizing the way importers and exporters from emerging markets transact. Leveraging the power of blockchain and stablecoins, we enable seamless and compliant fund transfers from importers in emerging economies to global exporters for the purchase of goods. Our mission is to enhance global trade by making cross-border payments faster, more secure, and more inclusive.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Chief Compliance Officer to lead the build-out of our compliance program and regulatory strategy. This is a foundational role in which the incumbent will be responsible for building the program and regulatory strategy, leading licensing and registration, hiring and training a team, and liaising with regulators in our key jurisdictions. As part of our senior executive team, the CCO will work closely with our CEO and other key executives to advise on strategic decisions and roadmaps.

This is a high-impact position requiring a deep understanding of the regulatory landscape in our key jurisdictions, crypto/blockchain compliance, and international trade flows.

Key Responsibilities

• Build and maintain our AML program, ensuring compliance with FINTRAC regulations
• Act as the designated AML compliance officer with FINTRAC.
• Build and/or identify and implement third-party systems for all KYC, monitoring, and reporting requirements.
• Hire and train compliance staff for key roles.
• Develop our regulatory strategy and roadmaps.
• Ensure compliance of transactions using stablecoins with regulatory requirements.
• Stay abreast of changing regulatory landscapes in Canada and other relevant jurisdictions.
• Provide training to staff on compliance-related matters, including emerging risks in blockchain and crypto.
• Work cross-functionally with product, operations, and legal teams to implement regulatory requirements into the platform and processes.
• Manage and liaise with regulators, auditors, and other third-party partners on all compliance matters.
• Maintain and update all relevant compliance documentation, manuals, and policies.

Requirements

Education & Experience:

• Minimum 10 years of experience in a senior compliance or AML role, ideally in a FINTRAC-regulated entity.
• Experience building out a compliance function and team in an early or growth-stage environment, including liaising with regulators and navigating the licensing/registration process.
• Experience building and maintaining key AML monitoring systems and controls (i.e., transaction monitoring, name screening, payment screening, etc.)
• Experience with crypto, blockchain, or digital asset compliance frameworks strongly preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in Law, Business, Finance, or a related field; advanced degree or certifications (e.g., CAMS, CRCM) preferred.
• Familiarity with trade finance, cross-border payments, or international remittance services.

Technical & Regulatory Knowledge:

• In-depth knowledge of Canadian AML/CTF laws/regs and the regulatory environment, familiarity with US BSA/AML requirements and regulatory landscape
• Understanding of the implications of blockchain and stablecoin transactions on compliance obligations.
• Experience managing high risk clients, investigations, and regulatory reporting
• Familiarity with RPAA requirements

Soft Skills:

• Hands-on, high attention to detail and a strong sense of responsibility.
• Practical, risk-based approach and ability to balance compliance with customer experience and growth – ensure controls are right-sized and fit for purpose
• Excellent analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, startup environment – comfortable with ambiguity and change
• Passion for innovation and financial inclusion.
• Strong people management and leadership skills