My days are a mix of structured work and unexpected questions. I spend time reviewing marketing materials, talking with colleagues about fundraising and regulatory issues, and finding practical ways to keep the business moving forward. I also work on improving our technology and workflows and spend time training and developing our team.
CAREER
Compliance Managers
Overview
Salary Median (2023)
$133,560
Projected Job Growth (2023-2033)
+6% (as fast as the average)
Career
What Compliance Managers Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities of an organization to ensure compliance with ethical or regulatory standards.
Other Job Titles Compliance Managers May Have
Accreditation Lieutenant, Accreditation Manager, Compliance Director, Compliance Manager, Compliance Operations Manager, Environmental Health and Safety Director, Environmental Manager, Environmental Program Manager, Health, Safety, and Environmental Manager (HSE Manager), Risk Manager
How Leaders Describe a Typical Day at Work
I respond to email first thing in the morning, review pending orders that are escalated to me, and work on special projects for the President of my company. Mixed in throughout I will talk to the HR directors of our clients (some Fortune 500 companies) and handle any other internal issues. Every day is different.
Tasks & Responsibilities May Include
- Report violations of compliance or regulatory standards to duly authorized enforcement agencies as appropriate or required.
- Identify compliance issues that require follow-up or investigation.
- Discuss emerging compliance issues to ensure that management and employees are informed about compliance reporting systems, policies, and practices.
- File appropriate compliance reports with regulatory agencies.
- Maintain documentation of compliance activities, such as complaints received or investigation outcomes.
Education
Level of Education Attained by Compliance Managers
Most common level of education among people in
this career: Bachelor's degree (63%)
High school diploma or equivalent
Bachelor's degree
Master's degree
Majors Related to Career
Educational Paths Suggested by Leaders
Suggested Path
High School
Bachelor
Doctorate
Suggested Path
High School
Bachelor
Finance, General
Graduate
Business Administration and Management, General
Additional Skills & Experiences That Can Help You Excel
Strong communication is essential in compliance. I need to take complex regulations and explain them clearly. Being a good listener is just as important. Understanding what someone is trying to accomplish helps me find a practical path forward. Curiosity and sound judgment also matter because the answers aren’t always black and white. I have to ask questions, understand the why, and solve problems within the rules.
No matter what you do, you have to be able to communicate. Work hard to become a great writer and speaker and doors will open.
Getting Started
Recommended First Step for:
High School Students
Go after what you are passionate about.
Start as soon as you turn 18. Research behavioral interview questions and practice with a friend. Sometimes taking baby steps to get your foot in the door at a company is necessary. In other words, you can start in another department and as you gain your experience you can reach any occupation you would like.
Research companies that you are interested in working for, and what type of degree will be required to do the type of work you would like to pursue.
Start getting in touch with your creative side. Research not only fashion history but also art history and find what truly inspires you. Start working on illustration and explore different styles, keep going even when you feel you've found your own.
College Students
Everyone
This page includes information from theO*NET 29.2 Databaseby the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under theCC BY 4.0license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
