U.S. Compliance Market Update – Navigating Compensation Trends
The 2024 hiring market began with strong demand across various Compliance functions in the U.S. However, as the U.S. Presidential Election approached, both clients and candidates grew cautious, causing hiring processes to slow through late November and early December.
As we entered 2025, hiring activity resurged, with firms moving quickly to fill open roles and candidates becoming more active. This renewed momentum aligns with the traditionally busiest hiring season of the year.
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2025 U.S. Compliance Compensation Report
Several Key Hiring Themes Emerged in 2024:
Buy-Side Compliance Hiring – Despite the overturn of proposed SEC Private Fund Rules, Buy-Side Private Markets remained a key area of Compliance hiring, accounting for 80% of our completed searches. Continued regulatory scrutiny and the growth of the SEC’s Private Funds Division drove demand for roles such as Compliance Manager, Director of Compliance, and Chief Compliance Officer (CCO).
Financial Crime Hiring – Preparing for the AML Program Rule – With FinCEN’s adoption of the AML Program Rule for Investment Advisers—scheduled to take effect in January 2026—many Investment Advisory Firms began formulating hiring plans to address new Financial Crime requirements. These plans are expected to evolve further as the deadline approaches.
Specialist Compliance Roles in Investment Management – In addition to regulatory changes, Investment Managers continued to bolster their Compliance teams by hiring specialists in areas such as:
- Regulatory Reporting
- Marketing Review
- Investment Compliance
- Regulatory Examination Preparation
Sell-Side Compliance Hiring – Last year, we saw robust hiring activity on the Sell-Side, particularly in the following areas:
- Monitoring & Testing
- Regulatory Relations
- Sales and Trading Advisory
- Financial Crimes
Looking Ahead
We anticipate continued high demand for Compliance talent across both Buy-Side and Sell-Side firms as regulatory expectations evolve and firms proactively address Compliance risks.
For tailored solutions to your hiring needs in this dynamic U.S. Compliance market, contact Grant today. His expertise and insights can guide you through navigating the current landscape and securing the right talent for your team.
Grant Potter
Managing Director, Head of Americas
E: gpotter@thedanosgroup.com
