In the ever-evolving field of ethics and compliance, one question remains: What kind of education do you need to become a great compliance officer? This topic was at the forefront of an episode of Great Women in Compliance. In this fascinating episode, hosts Hemma Lomax and Lisa Fine welcomed two guests: Barbara-Ann Boehler, Senior Director of Compliance and Ethics at Fordham Law, and Cindy Marsh, Senior Manager of Global Trade and Compliance at Victaulic, who shared their unique journeys and the educational paths they took.
Boehler has over 20 years of experience in financial services compliance. Before joining Fordham, she spent many years teaching compliance practice skills at Suffolk Law School and Boston University. Her extensive financial services and education background made her transition to Fordham a natural fit, where she now directs the corporate ethics and compliance program.
On the other hand, Marsh has been working in compliance since the 1990s, when the field was relatively unknown. Her career began in importation for an ocean carrier, and she is a licensed customs broker. To expand her knowledge, Cindy pursued a Master’s in Studies of Law (MSL) in Corporate Ethics and Compliance at Fordham. Her focus on trade compliance highlights the niche areas within the broader compliance field.
Boehler and Marsh underscored the significance of advanced studies in compliance. Boehler explained Fordham’s offerings, including a Master’s in Studies of Law for non-lawyers and an LLM in Corporate Compliance for lawyers. These programs are tailored to address the needs of highly regulated industries such as financial services, healthcare, and human resources.
One key benefit of these advanced studies is learning from peers equally passionate about compliance. Marsh noted that being surrounded by like-minded individuals who understand and respect the nuances of compliance was an invaluable aspect of her education at Fordham. This community fosters rich discussions and a deeper understanding of complex regulatory issues.
The practical application of compliance education was another focal point of the discussion. Boehler highlighted the importance of capstone courses, where students can engage in real-world compliance scenarios. These courses are designed to be highly interactive, with students often leading the discussions based on their experiences and insights.
Marsh shared her experience with the MSL program, noting how it allowed her to delve deeper into areas of compliance she hadn’t previously explored. For instance, a crisis management class opened her eyes to the compliance aspects of public relations and crisis communication. This broadened perspective is crucial for compliance professionals navigating various challenges.
Both Boehler and Marsh emphasized the importance of community in the compliance profession. Boehler articulated how Fordham fosters community among its students, including lunch-and-learn sessions and networking events. These initiatives help students and alumni stay connected and continue learning from each other.
Marsh’s experience with her cohort, which she affectionately called “Compliance Force Five,” exemplifies the lasting bonds formed through the program. Her connections with her peers have been instrumental in her professional development, providing a support network beyond the classroom.
The compliance landscape constantly evolves, and educational programs must adapt to keep pace. Boehler discussed how Fordham continuously updates its curriculum to reflect the latest developments in the field. This includes adding new courses on emerging topics such as cannabis compliance and market regulation.
Flexibility is also key. Marsh praised Fordham for its responsiveness to student feedback, noting how the program has expanded to include more diverse subject areas based on student interests. This adaptability ensures the program remains relevant and valuable to current and future compliance professionals.
Not everyone can pursue a formal degree program, but there are numerous other ways to enhance one’s knowledge and skills in compliance. Both guests highlighted the wealth of resources available to those interested in the field, from podcasts and webinars to professional organizations and certifications.
The guests advised a thoughtful approach to those considering further education. Understanding one’s career goals and how a specific program aligns with those goals is essential. Boehler emphasized that the MSL program is ideal for those passionate about compliance, but there may be a better fit for someone aiming to become a litigator.
Both Boehler and Marsh’s experiences underscore the multifaceted nature of a career in compliance. There is no right or wrong path. Indeed, there is no One Path. Whether through formal education or ongoing professional development, the path to becoming a successful compliance officer is paved with continuous learning and community engagement.
This discussion offers valuable guidance for compliance professionals on the importance of advanced studies, practical skills, and the supportive community that makes this profession unique. As the compliance field continues to grow and evolve, so must the educational opportunities and professional networks that support it.
By being endlessly curious and staying informed and connected, compliance professionals can not only navigate the complexities of their roles but also contribute to advancing the field.
