Director, Sanctions Compliance

Overview

As the Director, US Sanctions Compliance at CIBC US, you will report to the Head of Global Sanctions and play a pivotal role in overseeing the Second Line of Defense for sanctions risk in the US. You’ll serve as a subject‑matter expert on OFAC regulations and US sanctions frameworks, providing expert guidance across business lines, products, and jurisdictions. Your responsibilities include leading sanctions screening operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, and promoting a strong risk culture throughout the organization.

We’re building a relationship‑oriented bank for the modern world. At CIBC, we embrace your strengths and your ambitions, empowering you  team members have what they need to make a meaningful impact and are truly valued for who they are and what they contribute.

The role will be performed in a hybrid work arrangement: 3 days per week on‑site and the remaining days remote.

• Lead the development and enhancement of the Sanctions Compliance Program, ensuring alignment with regulatory requirements and best practices.
• Own and maintain global and US sanctions compliance policies and standards.
• Oversee and support regulatory examinations, internal audits, and testing reviews, including preparation of materials and drafting responses.
• Liaise with OFAC on licenses, voluntary self‑disclosures, and regulatory inquiries, coordinating with internal and external legal partners.
• Provide expert input on sanctions screening system tuning, threshold calibration, technology configurations, and list management.
• Offer practical guidance for new product reviews, client onboarding, alert escalations, payment structures, and complex transactions.
• Build strong partnerships with Technology, Data, and other risk management stakeholders to enhance program metrics and reporting.
• Engage with various risk teams and governance groups to promote and reinforce compliance standards.
• Develop and deliver targeted training sessions to foster a strong culture of sanctions risk awareness.
• Maintain and deepen expertise in global sanctions regulatory requirements and industry developments.

• At least 10 years of sanctions compliance experience with global financial institutions, with deep understanding of multijurisdictional sanctions regimes (US, Canada, EU, and UK).
• Strategic thinker with proven ability to work independently, solve complex problems, and develop actionable insights to achieve objectives.
• Relationship builder experienced in cross‑functional project and relationship management and mentoring junior compliance professionals.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, enabling translation of complex regulatory requirements into clear, actionable guidance.
• Committed to continuous improvement, demonstrating curiosity, collaboration, and openness to innovative approaches and industry best practices.
• Proficient in technology, comfortable using Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) to support work.
• Values are important: trust, teamwork, and accountability.
• Legal eligibility to work at the Chicago, IL location and a valid work or study permit if required.

• Competitive salary range: $160,000–$190,000 USD, with eligibility for incentive compensation and discretionary bonuses.
• Health, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account, Life Insurance, Disability, and other insurance plans.
• Paid Time Off, including Sick Leave, Parental Leave, and Vacation;
  Holidays and 401(k).
• Additional perks: banking benefits, Moment Makers (social points‑based recognition program), paid Purpose Day for personal growth, and wellbeing support.
• Hybrid work environment and flexible schedule.

Illinois – Chicago, 70 W Madison St, Floor 8

This role is not eligible for employment sponsorship.

We are an equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.