Overview:

The position is responsible for supporting  the design, maintenance and enhancement of AML frameworks, policies, procedures, controls, and tooling as they relate to digital assets, blockchain technology and cryptocurrency.  This role provides support to complex investigations, research, and resource training .  Plays a critical role in identifying, assessing, and mitigating financial crimes risks associated with digital assets and blockchain product offerings by partnering with product, technology, and compliance teams to embed effective controls, developing and refining risk indicators and detection scenarios, conducting risk assessments of novel products and services, and ensuring program alignment with regulatory expectations and industry best practices.

           

Primary Responsibilities:

• Provide support to design and enhance the risk framework and controls required to manage risk associated with digital assets and emerging banking solutions ensuring alignment of the framework with M&T Bank BSA/AML and sanctions compliance standards. Apply digital asset technical expertise, regulatory guidance and knowledge of industry best practices to ensure the framework is designed to effectively mitigate risks.
• Conduct due diligence and risk assessment of digital assets prospects and clients. Evaluate suitability and effectiveness of prospect and client AML compliance programs.
• Conduct financial crimes investigations involving suspicious crypto-related activity or interaction with virtual asset service providers. In conjunction with traditional AML transaction monitoring and research tools, leverage blockchain analytics software to trace and analyze customer blockchain transaction activity. Identify suspicious transactions and coordinate with Financial Investigations Unit for potential Suspicious Activity Report (SAR) filings.
• Support the development and enhancement of  procedures and job aids for BSA/AML teams supporting digital assets client due diligence, sanctions screening and financial investigations.
• Develop and deliver internal training to BSA/AML teams supporting digital assets-related due diligence, screening and investigations. Partner with BSA/AML training resources to create content specific to digital assets and associated risks and controls. Conduct small-group training sessions on crypto-related financial crime typologies and investigations tactics to enhance the skill and knowledge base of BSA/AML team members.
• Conduct deep-dive risk assessments on new product and service offerings involving digital assets or emerging banking solutions to identify risks and align appropriate controls. 
• Conduct research on emerging risks, industry trends and regulatory guidance related to digital assets and emerging banking solutions. Provide detailed briefings to senior leaders and applicable Bank committees and working groups to identify areas where controls may need to be created or enhanced.
• Provide support for regulatory inquiries or examinations and internal audits involving digital assets and emerging banking solution topics. Conduct research, write inquiry responses, and attend meetings as needed.
• Understand and adhere to the Company’s risk and regulatory standards, policies and controls in accordance with the Company’s Risk Appetite.  Identify risk-related issues needing escalation to management.
• Promote an environment that supports a culture of belonging and reflects the M&T Bank brand.
• Maintain M&T internal control standards, including timely implementation of internal and external audit points together with any issues raised by external regulators as applicable.
• Complete other related duties as assigned.

Scope of Responsibilities:

• The BSA/AML Digital Assets Compliance Specialist is a strategic contributor within Bank Secrecy Act/Anti-Money Laundering Compliance in M&T Bank’s Compliance Risk Management Division.

• The position will hold responsibility for supporting the buildout, maintenance and execution of a BSA/AML/Sanctions digital assets risk framework and suite of controls.
• The position will interact with senior leaders, managers and individual contributors across risk, compliance and M&T Bank business units.
• Work is accomplished with limited direction. The incumbent exercises initiative and judgment in all aspects of the role.

Supervisory/Managerial Responsibilities:

No Supervisory Responsibilities

Education and Experience Required:

• Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience, or in lieu of degree, a combined minimum of 9 years’ higher education and/or relevant work experience
• Strong knowledge of blockchain technology, cryptocurrency, virtual asset service providers, wallets, and DeFi platforms
• Experience with blockchain analytics and compliance tools
• Experience in leading complex anti-money laundering and/ or financial crimes investigations
• Strong analytical, investigative and documentation skills
• Advanced ability to apply critical thinking skills and to challenge management.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Effective ability to organize projects and keep efforts on track.
• Advanced ability to strategically seek critical information and ensure responses convey complex and/or nuanced concepts in an effective and understandable manner.
• Effective ability to independently manage work across initiatives, exhibiting a high degree of flexibility, productivity, and ability to multi-task while maintaining attention to detail

Education and Experience Preferred:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field of study (e.g. Criminal Justice, Information Systems, Accounting).
• Prior experience working at a virtual asset service provider such as a cryptocurrency exchange, custody provider, fintech, or bank providing digital asset and emerging banking services.
• Experience supporting regulatory examinations and internal audits.
• Understanding of domestic and international laws, rules and regulations related to digital assets.
• Anti-financial crime or blockchain/crypto professional certifications (e.g. CAMS, CFE, CFCS, CRCM).

M&T Bank is committed to fair, competitive, and market-informed pay for our employees. The pay range for this position is $74,600.00 - $124,400.00 Annual (USD). The successful candidate’s particular combination of knowledge, skills, and experience will inform their specific compensation.

Location

Buffalo, New York, United States of America