In this episode of the Transform Finance Podcast, we speak with Wendy Douglas, Head of AML Program Management at Flagstar Bank, about the evolving landscape of AML transformation, financial crime compliance and technology-led change.

Drawing on more than two decades of experience across compliance, investigations, testing, audit and financial crime leadership, Wendy shares her perspective on what it takes to modernise AML programmes in today’s banking environment. The conversation explores why financial institutions need to move beyond a compliance-only mindset and focus more closely on risk effectiveness, data quality, governance and demonstrable outcomes. Wendy also discusses the importance of breaking down organisational silos, building stronger collaboration across the three lines of defence, and creating scalable programmes rather than short-term tactical fixes.