Director of Fraud Risk

About the Role:

We are seeking a highly knowledgeable and experienced Director of Fraud Risk to lead our efforts in safeguarding Baird against fraud risks. This role will develop and execute a comprehensive fraud prevention strategy that aligns with Firm and Risk priorities, incorporates industry best practices, and strengthens existing controls. As part of Baird’s Risk Management function, The Director of Fraud Risk will collaborate closely with departments such as Compliance, Operations, Finance, Legal, Information Technology, Risk Management, and in strong partnership with all Business Units. This includes governance, policies, oversight, and awareness for fraud prevention, detection, and investigation strategies across all business lines, ensuring a proactive approach to fraud risk management. The Director will assess the current state, envision the future state, and create a roadmap to bridge the two. This position is based in our Milwaukee, WI office.

The Impact You'll Make:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive fraud risk management program, including the development of overall strategy, policies, and procedures across the organization as it relates to fraud prevention, detection, escalation, investigations, and reporting by assessing the current state of fraud risk management and creating a roadmap for future state improvements.

• Provide strategic direction and leadership in the development of fraud risk management governance.  Establish a fraud governance working group to oversee program effectiveness and ensure alignment with industry standards.

• Develop and execute a comprehensive fraud prevention strategy that requires the use of best practices across all business lines and encompasses early detection and investigation protocols.

• Collaborate with key stakeholders, including Compliance, Information Technology, Operations, Finance, Legal, and peers in Risk Management, to review and refine fraud-related policies, procedures and controls; clearly defining roles and responsibilities, as well as ensuring a cohesive and effective fraud risk management program.

• Lead the development of a structured approach to collecting and organizing fraud-related data to support analytics and proactive fraud prevention and detection.

• Oversee the enhancement of anti-fraud technologies, ensuring they are capable of real-time monitoring, validation, and control.

• Develop and deliver training programs to increase fraud awareness and prevention capabilities across the organization.

• Provide regular updates to senior leadership on the status of the fraud prevention program and emerging fraud risks.

• Monitor and analyze fraud trends and emerging threats to proactively address potential risks.

• Ensure the fraud risk program aligns with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards.

• Build and lead a team of fraud risk management professionals as the function grows.

What You'll Bring to Baird:

• 10+ years in risk management, fraud prevention, financial crime, or related fields, with leadership experience preferred.

• Bachelor's degree; advanced degree or certifications (e.g., CFE, CAMS) a plus.

• Expertise in fraud risk management and fraud prevention program development.

• Proven track record in developing and implementing governance, policies, and oversight for fraud risk management.

• Proficiency in fraud control strategies, operations management, and fraud analytics.

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

• Executive presence with the ability to influence and collaborate with senior leadership.

• Ability to design and implement adaptable fraud processes that flex to meet the unique needs of diverse business units, while ensuring consistency in outcomes.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective cross-functional collaboration.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Experience with anti-fraud technologies and data analytics tools.

• Up-to-date knowledge of emerging fraud trends and regulatory expectations.

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Baird is committed to diversity and provides employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, military service, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other status protected by law.