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Voices in Compliance
Hosted by Jason Thomas, the Voices in Compliance Podcast dives into the world of regulatory strategy, compliance leadership, and risk innovation across financial services and fintech.
From navigating EMI licensing to building credible MLRO functions, we explore how leaders are shaping the future of regulated markets in the UK, EU, and beyond.
Whether you’re scaling a payments startup, steering compliance for a global bank, or advising on regulation in the digital age, expect practical insights, candid stories, and expert advice from the people behind the policies.
Voices in Compliance
AI, Crypto & The Future of Compliance with Heather O'Gorman - Ep. 3
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In Episode 3 of Voices in Compliance, host Jason Thomas (Co-Founder of Alexander Barnes) is joined by Heather O'Gorman, Associate Director and Head of Digital Assets at FSCOM. Heather brings over a decade of experience to a deep-dive conversation on the rapidly evolving world of payments, e-money, and crypto assets.
We explore the reality of AI in compliance - moving away from the idea of AI as an "expert" to focus on how technology can realistically strip the administrative burden out of daily life. Heather also pulls back the curtain on FCA authorization, explaining why some firms fail and how a "live" Business Wide Risk Assessment (BWRA) is the secret to regulatory success.
Whether you’re a Fintech founder navigating your first EMI application or a compliance professional looking to step up into an MLRO role, this episode is packed with actionable insights on leadership, innovation, and the upcoming regulatory roadmap.
Key Topics Covered:
The AI Misconception: Why technology should replace admin, not human intelligence.
FCA Focus Areas: Mastering the methodology of Business Wide Risk Assessments.
EMI Application Strategies: Success tips for navigating the iterative authorization process.
The Future of Money: The role of stablecoins in cross-border payments.
Career Evolution: The personality traits needed to move from banking into compliance consulting.
Episode Timestamps
00:00 – Intro: Meet Heather O'Gorman, Head of Digital Assets at FSCOM
01:25 – Restructuring compliance teams for the UK market
02:27 – AI in Compliance: Replacing admin vs. replacing experts
03:55 – The "Live" Document: Mastering Business Wide Risk Assessments (BWRA)
05:48 – FCA Guidance: Best practices for methodology and control
06:30 – EMI Applications: Why success rates are picking up
07:48 – Finding the right expertise for the MLRO role
08:43 – "Act like a regulated firm before you are one"
09:30 – Why interim MLROs are difficult to approve
10:15 – Building a transparent relationship with the FCA
10:55 – Top 3 tips for a successful EMI application
12:55 – The MLRO as a business enabler, not a "police officer"
13:42 – Innovation and managing up: Advice for future MLROs
14:59 – Banking vs. Consulting: Does your personality fit the pace?
17:43 – 2026 Horizon: Safeguarding and the new Crypto Asset Regime
18:32 – Stablecoins and the future of cross-border payments
20:20 – The UK's regulatory roadmap for crypto firms
21:30 – Quickfire Round: Morning routines, Adam Lambert, and career "what ifs"
