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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
Scaling, Strategy & The Future of Compliance with Ross Osborne - Ep. 4
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In this episode of Voices in Compliance, host Jason Thomas sits down with Ross Osborne, UK CEO of Rippling, to explore the complexities of scaling compliance functions within high-growth fintech environments. Ross shares his perspective on why compliance should be a business enabler rather than a "policing" unit and discusses the critical importance of building a "compliance culture" from the ground up.
The conversation covers the tactical realities of international expansion, the "red flags" to watch for during rapid hiring, and how to maintain a strong relationship with the regulator while moving at pace. Whether you are navigating a new license application or managing a global compliance footprint, Ross provides a roadmap for balancing commercial ambition with regulatory integrity.
Episode Timestamps:
- [00:00:15] Introduction: Jason welcomes Ross Osborne, CEO of Rippling, to discuss his extensive background in the fintech and payments space.
- [00:01:30] The Growth Friction: Ross explains how to manage the natural tension between commercial targets and compliance guardrails.
- [00:03:45] Compliance by Design: Why tech and product teams must be aligned with compliance goals from the very beginning of the development lifecycle.
- [00:06:20] Navigating Global Footprints: Tactical advice on managing different regulatory requirements across multiple jurisdictions.
- [00:09:50] Building the Right Team: The qualities Ross looks for when hiring compliance professionals who can thrive in a fast-paced environment.
- [00:13:10] The Role of Technology: How automation and AI are being utilized to streamline the "first line" of defense.
- [00:16:45] Engaging the Regulator: Why transparency and proactive communication are the foundations of a successful relationship with the FCA.
- [00:20:15] The Strategic MLRO: Shifting the perception of the MLRO role from a cost center to a value-add for the business.
- [00:24:40] Quick Fire Section: Ross reveals his favorite morning habits, his "Queen for a day" regulatory change, and his guilty pleasures.
