Job Summary:
Working under administrative direction, the Branch Examiner utilizes expertise gained through experience and specialized training in the securities industry to conduct onsite examinations of retail brokerage offices nationwide. These examinations entail reviewing various supervisory systems, physical locations, onsite files, documentation, and conducting employee interviews to ensure compliance with firm policies, federal and state regulations, and industry standards. Detailed documentation of testing activities and communication of results to branches are key responsibilities.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Conduct risk-based branch examinations in FINRA-registered and non-registered Private Client Group branches across the U.S.
- Document testing activities thoroughly in the branch exam system and related work papers.
- Ensure appropriate sampling methodologies are employed and sample sizes reflect the activity being tested.
- Exercise professional judgment in identifying potential risk areas and knowing when to further investigate.
- Communicate examination findings clearly to branch management, exam managers, and compliance leadership.
- Report examination findings and complete related follow-up promptly.
- Identify and escalate risks and adverse trends.
- Provide compliance support to business partners as required.
- Maintain regular interaction with Compliance and Supervision partners.
- Undertake special and ad hoc reviews and projects efficiently and with high quality.
- Offer guidance and mentorship to less-experienced peers.
Qualifications:
- Advanced understanding of securities industry concepts, broker/dealer compliance, and branch examination practices.
- Familiarity with SEC, FINRA, and state securities regulations.
- Proficiency in fundamental investment concepts, practices, and procedures.
- Knowledge of financial markets and products.
Skills:
- Comprehensive and balanced documentation skills.
- Clear and concise cross-functional communication, both written and oral.
- Ability to identify opportunities for program development and enhancement.
- Strong relationship-building skills based on mutual respect and trust.
- Ability to establish credibility and handle disagreements diplomatically.
- Proactive in identifying emerging risk areas and escalating them appropriately.
- Effective problem-solving in complex environments.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
Educational/Previous Experience Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree (B.A. /B.S.) and a minimum of three (3) years of licensed examination experience. Alternatively, any equivalent combination of experience, education, and/or training approved by Human Resources.
Licenses/Certifications:
- SIE required unless an exemption or grandfathering applies.
- Series 7 and Series 24 required.
- Series 9/10 strongly preferred or ability to obtain within a designated time frame.
Travel:
- Up to 50% travel required.
