Regulatory Program Lead, Canada
The Regulatory Program Lead for Canada at Block (formerly Square) is a pivotal role within the company's compliance team, focusing on overseeing and enhancing compliance functions for its Canadian entities, including Square Canada and Afterpay Canada. This position reports directly to the Chief Compliance Officer (CCO) of Canada and represents the CCO in various governance forums, Board meetings, and regulatory engagements. The role is designed for a seasoned compliance professional with extensive experience in the payments industry, aiming to build and lead a scalable, technology-enabled compliance function that aligns with both Canadian regulatory expectations and Block's global standards.
Key responsibilities include leading the execution of the annual Canada Compliance Plan, which encompasses regulatory change management, monitoring and testing, risk assessments, and policy reviews. The Regulatory Program Lead will manage compliance programs across areas such as Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Terrorist Financing (AML/ATF), the Retail Payment Activities Act (RPAA), the Payment Card Industry (PCI) Code of Conduct, and consumer protection and privacy obligations under laws like PIPEDA, CASL, and FCAC. Additionally, the role involves preparing Board and governance committee materials, translating complex regulatory information into clear, decision-ready narratives for senior leadership, and leading cross-functional regulatory programs across Legal, Risk, Product, Operations, and Engineering teams.
Candidates should possess over 10 years of progressive experience in compliance, financial crime, or regulatory affairs, with a strong background in payments compliance within a regulated payments entity such as a Money Services Business (MSB), payment service provider, acquirer, or comparable fintech. A deep understanding of Canadian AML/ATF legislation, the RPAA, the PCI Code of Conduct, and consumer protection frameworks is essential. The ideal candidate will have executive presence, with experience preparing and presenting Board-level compliance reporting and engaging directly with regulators through examinations and ongoing supervision. Hands-on experience with AI tools for regulatory analysis, drafting, and process automation is also highly desirable.
While specific compensation details are not provided, Block offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, wellness programs, and financial planning support. Employees are also entitled to paid annual leave and have access to various employee perks. The company emphasizes a supportive work environment that fosters professional growth and development.
Block is committed to building a diverse and inclusive culture, as evidenced by its Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan, which lays the foundation for future reconciliation initiatives. The company encourages applications from individuals who are passionate about compliance and regulatory affairs and who are eager to contribute to Block's mission of providing innovative financial solutions.