Sanctions Program Manager

We are looking for a Sanctions Program Manager to join our ICS team at MBPS. In this role, you will lead and oversee the end-to-end sanctions screening program to ensure compliance with global and applicable regulatory requirements. You will be responsible for maintaining strong governance of sanctions name scanning systems, processes, and controls, while driving continuous improvements to meet evolving regulatory expectations. Additionally, you will ensure the program operates effectively and accurately, maintain a robust governance framework, timely escalate AML/ATF and sanctions risks/red flags, proactively engage with stakeholders, and deliver sustainable program enhancements to protect the organization from regulatory, financial, and reputational risks.

Position Responsibilities: 

• Lead the name scanning and sanctions screening program, ensuring effective detection, escalation, and management of potential AML/ATF and sanctions risks.

• Oversee the implementation, tuning, and maintenance of name screening systems and watchlists.

• Provide advisory support to business units on name scanning and sanctions-related alerts, escalations, and regulatory requirements.

• Manage internal/custom watchlists, ensuring timely updates and integration across screening platforms.

• Partner with technology, operations, and compliance stakeholders to deliver system enhancements, process improvements, and sustainable solutions.

• Monitor and report on alerts backlog, system performance, and operational metrics to ensure program effectiveness.

• Lead regulatory and audit engagements related to sanctions name scanning, preparing responses and evidence as needed.

• Build team capabilities, providing training and guidance to staff on sanctions compliance and screening practices.

Required Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Law, Finance, or Business Administration.

• Minimum of 5+ years in AML/Sanctions Compliance, with direct exposure to risk management or program oversight. Strong background in governance, reporting, and oversight within financial institutions.

• Solid understanding of Financial Crimes Compliance (FCC), including AML/ATF and sanctions.

• Proven experience in managing FCC programs and providing oversight across multiple stakeholders, including leading teams.

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across global and regional teams.

• Demonstrated high ethical standards, integrity, and objectivity.

• Relevant professional certifications, such as Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) or Certified Global Sanctions Specialist (CGSS)

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 https://www.manulife.com/en/about/our-story.html.

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 hr@manulife.com.

Working Arrangement