Director - Independent Compliance Testing; Operations Lead

The Director of Independent Compliance Testing (ICT) – Operations Lead is responsible for the governance and continuous enhancement of the U.S. Independent Compliance Testing framework, aimed at ensuring business activities align with applicable regulatory requirements and internal compliance standards and methodologies. This role provides operational leadership for the U.S. testing program while partnering closely with senior stakeholders across the enterprise to drive a strong culture of compliance and effective risk management. The Director is accountable for overseeing the annual testing program, supporting regulatory and audit engagement, enhancing the testing framework, and ensuring consistent execution of control- and outcome-based testing in alignment with other Independent Risk Management (IRM) functions across the enterprise. The Director will provide general support to the VP of U.S. Independent Compliance Testing- Privacy and Fairness, to ensure effective and efficient operations including: Lead the governance of the ICT program, ensuring timely delivery on the annual plan Oversee the end-to-end testing lifecycle, including QC of announcement memos, testing workpapers, reports, and issue validation activities to ensure consistency, accuracy, and effective risk identification Partner with other IRM functions, Audit, and other key stakeholders to support annual planning, coordinate testing activities, and promote consistent application of testing methodologies Support regulatory examinations and internal audits by coordinating program responses and ensuring the timely delivery of requested materials. Lead the preparation and delivery of executive reporting, management information (MIS), and governance committee materials, communicating program results and emerging risks to senior leadership. Drive the continuous enhancement of the ICT framework, including policies, procedures, methodologies, templates, reporting, training materials, and supporting technology solutions. Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing team, fostering collaboration, accountability, and continuous professional development. Promote operational excellence by enhancing ICT processes, governance, controls, and technology to improve efficiency, consistency, and scalability. Minimum Qualifications: Demonstrated ability to lead multiple strategic initiatives and manage competing priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. Strong people leadership skills with a proven ability to coach, develop, motivate, and influence high-performing teams. Exceptional relationship management skills with the ability to collaborate and influence across all levels of the organization. Excellent written, verbal, presentation, analytical, and organizational skills. Strong problem-solving capabilities, attention to detail, and sound professional judgment. Self-motivated, adaptable, and able to operate effectively both independently and within a highly collaborative environment. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint); experience with AI-enabled productivity tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Claude) is a plus. Experience: 5+ years of experience in compliance, internal or external audit, compliance testing, internal controls, operational risk, or a related risk management discipline. Strong knowledge of compliance testing methodologies, internal control frameworks, and control- and outcome-based testing practices. Working knowledge of the laws, rules, and regulations applicable to American Express businesses. Experience developing executive-level reporting and communicating program outcomes to senior management, governance committees, regulators, and auditors. Demonstrated success leading teams and driving results within a complex, highly matrixed organization. Strong understanding of banking operations, products, systems, and business processes. Proven ability to identify compliance risks, assess root causes, and recommend practical, sustainable solutions. Excellent collaboration, stakeholder management, presentation, and project management skills. Ability to translate complex regulatory and technical concepts into practical business guidance. Preferred Qualifications: CRCM, CAMS, or related designation/certification preferred Bachelor's or advanced degree preferred Employment eligibility to work with American Express in the United States is required as the company will not pursue visa sponsorship for these positions.