Interview with Edwin de Heij on the DSI AML register
Meet Edwin de Heij, Senior Analyst and Quality Checker Client Lifecycle Management at InsingerGilissen a Quintet Private Bank S.A. On July 1, he received his diploma for the FEC Risk Expert course at the VU and was the first to register for the new DSI AML Register. We spoke with Edwin about his experiences, motivation and vision for the future of compliance in the financial sector and his registration in the DSI AML Register.
My role at InsingerGilissen
“At InsingerGilissen, I monitor the quality of client investigations as a Quality Checker Client Lifecycle Management. My role revolves around checking that client files comply with all laws and regulations, and I work closely with Client Advisors and CDD analysts to ensure this. My approval is essential before files are further reviewed by compliance and ultimately by the Client Acceptance Committee for final approval,” Edwin explains.
InsingerGilissen asked Edwin to come to help because of his experience at the front end of the chain. “As a private banker myself, I have experienced how difficult it can be to ask sensitive questions, such as to a widow of 85 about her late husband’s fortune. That experience allows me to empathize well with bankers and support them with compliance questions. My experience helps me ask the right questions and make sure everything is compliant.”
After working at ABN AMRO for 26 years, Edwin discovered his passion for client integrity. “As a Private Banker at ABN AMRO, my responsibilities included the integrity of my client portfolio. This led my move into this field,” says Edwin.
Why did I get certified in the DSI AML registry?
Edwin explains why he is getting certified in the DSI AML Registry: “It’s not just a little game that allows me to say, ‘look how much knowledge I have.’ It’s about being able to demonstrate my professional competence and being able to show as a professional that you are certified. What sets me apart from others is that I do appear on the DSI register.” Edwin believes that the DSI register helps to emphasize the value of expertise in the profession and distinguish professionals in an increasingly complex financial world. “The beauty of DSI is that you can separate the wheat from the chaff,” he adds.
It’s about being able to demonstrate my professional competence and being able to show as a professional that you are certified.
The added value of the FEC Risk Expert course
“The FEC Risk Expert Course at VU Amsterdam has deepened my understanding of the entire CDD chain,” says Edwin. “It has helped me to be a serious interlocutor and I use the knowledge gained immediately to better assess risks and thoroughly evaluate customer files. The discussions with guest speakers such as the OM, DNB, FIU, FATF and AFM have helped me link the WWFT legal texts even better to practice.”
Customer contact and collaboration in KYC and CDD
Edwin emphasizes the crucial importance of personal customer contact in KYC and CDD, even in a time of increasing digitalization. “A personal conversation with the customer can make all the difference in assessing their risk profile. This direct contact helps to get a complete and accurate picture.”
In addition, Edwin emphasizes the need for cooperation between CDD analysts and bankers. “Collaboration is essential for accurate and complete customer information. CDD analysts and bankers must combine their knowledge and insights to ensure that all information is correct and compliant with regulations. We are a special group of people who need to connect the commercial and risk sides.”
Tips for future AML professionals
Edwin advises future AML professionals to invest in training, gain experience, and always remain curious and critical. “Ask questions and dig deeper to really understand your client,” he says.
Certification with DSI is crucial, according to Edwin: “It not only demonstrates your personal expertise, but also shows that your organization has senior professionals who stand out. This is especially important for senior positions looking to gain a distinctive advantage.”
The future of compliance
Edwin sees the future of compliance as a dynamic field with increasing influence of new legislation and international developments. “Keeping abreast of these changes and understanding the rationale behind certain procedures is essential. The DSI AML Register provides the necessary clarity and helps professionals and organizations stand out in a complex landscape.”
More about the DSI AML Register
Do you work in the financial sector and focus on money laundering and anti-terrorist financing? The DSI AML Register offers you independent recognition as an expert in this field. Certification and registration in the DSI Register Integrity confirms your knowledge and skills, increases your career opportunities, and emphasizes your commitment to integrity. For details and application, visit www.dsi.nl/aml.
