Head of AML/ATF and Sanctions, Bank

Manulife Bank is seeking a strategic and experienced Head of AML/ATF and Sanctions to lead the Bank's Anti-Money Laundering (AML), Anti-Terrorist Financing (ATF), and Sanctions Compliance program. This leadership role is critical to ensure the Bank's AML/ATF and Sanctions program is robust, risk-based, and aligned with evolving regulatory expectations and broader enterprise standards.

Reporting to the Chief Compliance Officer and CAMLO, you will serve as a key member of the Compliance leadership team and represent Manulife Bank on the Global Financial Crimes leadership team. You are a leader who maintains a matrixed relationship with the Global CAMLO, driving strategic alignment across jurisdictions.

As a subject matter expert in Canadian AML/ATF and Sanctions regulation and operational best practices, you will oversee the design, execution, and continuous enhancement of the Bank's AML/ATF and Sanctions program. You will ensure the AML/ATF and Sanctions program is managed and evolves in response to changing business strategies, regulatory developments, and emerging risks. This includes managing the program, leading risk assessments, championing technology and analytics-driven solutions, and advocating for program investment and prioritization.

You will collaborate closely with partners across compliance, operations, technology, and other enterprise teams to ensure risks are effectively managed and regulatory obligations are met. You will also represent the Bank in regulatory and industry forums, lead responses to audits and examinations, and provide clear, actionable reporting to senior management and the Board.

This role requires a strategic thinker with strong leadership, communication, and execution capabilities. You are committed to maintaining a high-performing team and driving continuous improvement across the AML/ATF and Sanctions landscape.

Position Responsibilities:

• Lead the strategic direction and execution of the Bank's AML/ATF and Sanctions Program.

• Provide expert guidance and advice on AML/ATF and sanctions risk management.

• Ensure program governance, regulatory reporting, and internal control effectiveness.

• Manage and develop a high-performing team, fostering collaboration and accountability.

• Represent the Bank in regulatory engagements and industry forums.

• Prepare reports and communicate on the status of the Bank's AML/ATF and Sanctions program to senior leadership and the Board.

• Drive innovation through technology, data analytics, and process optimization.

• Ensure alignment of strategy with business and regulatory priorities.

Individual Accountabilities:

• Strategic Insight: Shape and execute the Bank's AML/ATF and Sanctions strategy. Provide insights on emerging risks, advocate for program investment, and foster a culture of compliance and ethical conduct.

• Program Management: Manage AML/ATF and sanctions compliance activities. Ensure regulatory compliance, maintain program documentation, lead risk assessments, and contribute to monitoring, testing, and control effectiveness.

• Team Leadership & Talent Development: Lead a high-performing team, including the Manager, AML Compliance. Provide coaching, development opportunities, and manage staffing and performance.

• Advocacy & Representation: Represent Manulife Bank in regulatory and industry forums. Advocate for the Bank's interests and contribute to external working groups.

• Regulatory Engagement: Lead responses to regulatory inquiries, examinations, and internal audits. Ensure timely and accurate reporting to senior management and the Board.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Enhanced AML detection and prevention capabilities.

• Timely and accurate regulatory reporting and audit outcomes.

• Strategic alignment with enterprise risk and compliance objectives.

• High team engagement and development of direct reports.

• Implementation of technology and analytics to improve program efficiency.

• Effective cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder satisfaction.

Required Qualifications:

• Degree in business, finance, law, or criminal justice and advanced certifications (e.g., CAMS, CGSS).

• 15+ years in senior compliance roles within financial services, with Canadian banking experience.

• Proven leadership in AML/ATF and sanctions program management.

• Strong understanding of risks, detection technologies, and regulatory frameworks.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and AML/ATF systems.

Core Competencies:

• Strategic thinking and ability to anticipate and respond to evolving risks.

• Deep knowledge of Canadian AML/ATF, Sanctions and banking regulations and industry practices.

• Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

• Leadership and team development capabilities.

• High ethical standards and commitment to compliance culture.

• Ability to influence and collaborate across diverse teams and functions.

• Adaptability and continuous learning mindset.

Key Leadership Behaviours:

• Results Orientation & Attention to Detail: Delivers high-quality outcomes with precision and accountability.

• AML/ATF & Sanctions Expertise: Applies deep knowledge of regulations to guide program strategy and execution.

• Audit & Compliance Leadership: Understands the structure and responsibilities of compliance functions and drives effective oversight.

• Internal Controls: Designs and enhances control frameworks to ensure regulatory compliance and operational integrity.

• Problem Solving: Applies structured thinking and sound judgment to resolve complex compliance and operational challenges.

When you join our team:

• We'll empower you to learn and grow the career you want. 

• We'll recognize and support you in a flexible environment where well-being and inclusion are more than just words. 

• As part of our global team, we'll support you in shaping the future you want to see.

About Manulife and John Hancock

Manulife Financial Corporation is a leading international financial services provider, helping people make their decisions easier and lives better. To learn more about us, visit

Manulife is an Equal Opportunity Employer

At Manulife/John Hancock, we embrace our diversity. We strive to attract, develop and retain a workforce that is as diverse as the customers we serve and to foster an inclusive work environment that embraces the strength of cultures and individuals. We are committed to fair recruitment, retention, advancement and compensation, and we administer all of our practices and programs without discrimination on the basis of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, religion or religious beliefs, creed, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions), sexual orientation, genetic characteristics, veteran status, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, family status, disability, or any other ground protected by applicable law.

It is our priority to remove barriers to provide equal access to employment. A Human Resources representative will work with applicants who request a reasonable accommodation during the application process. All information shared during the accommodation request process will be stored and used in a manner that is consistent with applicable laws and Manulife/John Hancock policies. To request a reasonable accommodation in the application process, contact

Referenced Salary Location

Working Arrangement

Salary range is expected to be between

If you are applying for this role outside of the primary location, please contact for the salary range for your location. The actual salary will vary depending on local market conditions, geography and relevant job-related factors such as knowledge, skills, qualifications, experience, and education/training. Employees also have the opportunity to participate in incentive programs and earn incentive compensation tied to business and individual performance.

Manulife offers eligible employees a wide array of customizable benefits, including health, dental, mental health, vision, short- and long-term disability, life and AD&D insurance coverage, adoption/surrogacy and wellness benefits, and employee/family assistance plans. We also offer eligible employees various retirement savings plans (including pension and a global share ownership plan with employer matching contributions) and financial education and counseling resources. Our generous paid time off program in Canada includes holidays, vacation, personal, and sick days, and we offer the full range of statutory leaves of absence. If you are applying for this role in the U.S., please contact for more information about U.S.-specific paid time off provisions.