Specialist, SAR Investigations

Overview
Investigates suspicious activity as required under the Bank Secrecy Act and USA PATRIOT Act, including AML/BSA issues, insider abuse, and financial fraud. Responsible for the drafting of Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs), documenting decisions not to file SARs, and editing colleagues' SAR submissions.Conducts advanced and complex research and analysis of suspicious account activity, (focusing on insider abuse, financial fraud, and related AML/BSA issues), including all forms of funds transfers, open source information (e.g., Internet and Lexis), closed source databases, and internal client information and account transaction databases. Compiles information and documents from a variety of sources to draft SAR reports. Typically handles more complex investigations.Applies advanced problem solving skills to examine transactions that are frequently complex and often structured in order to avoid detection. Analyzes transaction data, research findings, and information received from the business and/or from the end customer or client, to ascertain whether transaction activity is suspicious or has a reasonable explanation, and/or whether fraud is suspected. Looks for linkages across suspicious activities, assessing whether the activity is isolated or part of a larger issue. Identifies and resolves discrepant information. Synthesizes large volumes of data which defines the baseline against which suspicious or reportable instances will be tested. Evaluates findings, develops theories and prepares recommendations for action to management or senior colleagues.Effectively communicates and collaborates with legal, compliance, risk, corporate security and business personnel. Works with other lines of business or risk/compliance to obtain information in an efficient and timely manner. Collaborates with reviewing lawyers on their investigations and successfully implements and responds to recommendations/feedback. Through regular interaction and collaboration, understands the functions of the organization's financial intelligence units and how the units work together in order to meet the organization's obligations under applicable law and regulation and regulatory expectations. As a senior professional, applies a deep understanding of the products and services offered throughout the organization, as well as baseline and expected activity for such products and services, both on a general and a specific account basis to undertake significant investigations. Applies a strong understanding of the financial services industry and the commercial environment on a global basis in order to determine whether and why particular activity is suspicious and reportable. Demonstrates a thorough understanding of the reporting requirements under the Bank Secrecy Act and the USA PATRIOT Act, and an understanding of the economic sanctions administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control.May conduct special projects such as long term document and/or email reviews and/or legal and other research. May participate with management to develop approaches, methods, and standards for the unit.No direct reports, but may act as a trainer, advisor or resource for less experienced colleagues. May serve as a project manager and guide colleagues in their project responsibilities.Incumbent(s) undertake advanced investigations with significant financial or reputational risk. Findings affect the nature and magnitude of key Bank client/customer/partner relationships. Work directly affects the achievement of team/area goals.Modified based upon local regulations/requirements.Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and work experience required. Graduate Degree in Law, Business, or Intelligence Studies preferred.5-7 years of total work experience preferred. Experience working for a financial institution on AML/ KYC/ anti-fraud related projects and/or ACAMS (Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists) certification and intelligence work in the private or public sector, is preferred.. BNY Mellon is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Minorities/Females/Individuals with Disabilities/Protected Veterans. Our ambition is to build the best global team - one that is representative and inclusive of the diverse talent, clients and communities we work with and serve - and to empower our team to do their best work. We support wellbeing and a balanced life, and offer a range of family-friendly, inclusive employment policies and employee forums.