Open to opportunities

wai tat lai

@waitatlai

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Dedicated AML and Sanctions Compliance professional with 9 years of experience.

Hong Kong

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What I'm looking for

I am looking for a role that allows me to leverage my compliance expertise in a dynamic environment, focusing on regulatory challenges and opportunities for professional growth.

I am an AML and Sanctions Compliance professional with 9 years of experience across banking, fintech, and cryptocurrency sectors. My expertise includes transaction monitoring, KYC/KYB, sanctions screening, and policy development. I hold certifications in CAMS, CGSS, and CCI, and have a proven track record of implementing effective controls while liaising with regulators.

Throughout my career, I have worked in various roles, starting as a Transaction Monitoring Investigator at HSBC and progressing to my current position as a Senior Compliance Manager at OKX. My responsibilities have included managing KYC/KYB processes, designing AML system controls, and advising business stakeholders on compliance matters. I am passionate about enhancing operational flows and ensuring compliance with the highest standards.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Senior Compliance Manager

Current

OKX

Apr 2024 - Present (1 year 4 months)

Manages global compliance controls including KYC/KYB, Travel Rule, KYT, and Screening. Oversees AML policies and SOPs for the organization. Utilizes tools like Chainalysis, Unit21, and World-Check for compliance operations.

KYC Travel Rule KYT AML SOPs Chainalysis Unit21 World Check Compliance Management

Senior Specialist, AML & Sanctions Advisory

Ant Group (Alipay HK)

Oct 2022 - Present (2 years 10 months)

Provided regional AML advisory, ensuring compliance with HKMA SVF Licensee requirements. Designed and implemented AML system controls, coordinating with product and tech teams. Deputized MLRO, led a team, and acted as a contact point for Law Enforcement Enquiries.

AML Regulatory Requirements Team Leadership HKMA Regulations

Senior Specialist, Sanctions Compliance & Control

Ant Group

May 2019 - Present (6 years 3 months)

Designed and facilitated the Group’s Sanctions Risk Control framework for global virtual banks and e-Wallets. Led a major upgrade migration project for the in-house screening engine, collaborating with Tech & Algo teams. Monitored day-to-day screening activities and provided compliance advisory on list management and screening logic.

Sanctions Risks Risk Control Screening Engine Migration Project Management

Officer, AML Compliance

E.Sun Commercial Bank Hong Kong

May 2018 - Present (7 years 3 months)

Maintained transaction screening systems, implementing rule settings and fuzzy logic enhancements. Introduced and implemented SWIFT Sanctions Testing Service for HKMA thematic review. Conducted transaction monitoring, screening investigations, and STR reporting to JFIU.

Transaction Monitoring System Configuration Swift STR Reporting JFIU

Assistant Manager, AML Investigation

HSBC GSC China – FCC Ops TM

Mar 2016 - Present (9 years 5 months)

Conducted effective and timely AML investigations, consolidating evidence and research for final decisions. Developed and maintained department reports and MIs, including performance reports and scorecards. Led a project to enhance staff AML knowledge and daily work skills for over 200 team members.

AML Investigations Transaction Monitoring Data Analysis Project Management Staff Training Evidence Consolidation

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Not specified

Certified Cryptocurrency Investigator, Cryptocurrency Investigation

Obtained certification as a Certified Cryptocurrency Investigator (CCI) in 2024. This certification enhances expertise in investigating cryptocurrency-related financial crimes.

ACAMS

Certified Global Sanctions Specialist, Global Sanctions Compliance

Achieved the Certified Global Sanctions Specialist (CGSS) designation in 2022, awarded by ACAMS. This certification demonstrates specialized knowledge in global sanctions compliance.

ACAMS

Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist, Anti-Money Laundering

Earned the Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) certification in 2017 from ACAMS. This credential signifies expertise in anti-money laundering principles and practices.