Description:
The Senior Principal Investigator in Crypto Asset Investigations (CAI) conducts high-complexity investigations into crypto asset activities of FINRA member firms and their associated persons; provides subject matter expertise to Regulatory Operations staff on crypto asset matters and initiatives; assists in the development and delivery of crypto asset training for FINRA staff and the securities industry; and assist in external engagements and intelligence sharing initiatives to raise awareness of emerging and priority threats related to crypto asset and blockchain technology, and highlight related challenges and effective practices.
This is an advanced expert level, professional role that requires an expanded skill set, and the ability to work independently with minimal guidance and supervision while managing and leading a complex caseload and other priority initiatives.
- Independently leads investigations specific to tokenized securities and other crypto asset activities of FINRA member firms and associated persons.
- Timely document investigative strategies, findings, and results; and provide recommendations based on identified findings.
- Serves as a subject matter expert for FINRA staff across the organization on crypto-asset-related matters and initiatives, as well as on external engagements, including as a public speaker at FINRA and industry-sponsored events.
- Participating in or leading the development and delivery of training on tokenized securities, crypto assets, and blockchain technology for FINRA staff and external stakeholders.
- Participates in industry engagement initiatives focused on effective practices, common challenges, emerging trends and other regulatory considerations related to broker-dealer activity in tokenized securities, crypto assets and blockchain technology.
- Proactively identify and share intelligence with internal and external stakeholders on emerging threats and trends involving tokenized securities, crypto assets and blockchain technology activities of broker-dealers and associated persons.
- Demonstrates FINRA’s values, always acting with integrity and professionalism.
- Collaborates, both in-person and virtually, in furtherance of FINRA’s mission of investor protection and market integrity.
Education/Experience Requirements
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience required; advanced degree or law degree preferred; professional certifications (e.g., blockchain certifications, CAMS, CFE) valued.
- Expertise in onchain investigations using blockchain analytics and forensics platforms and other open-source intelligence, including transaction tracing, and wallet attribution.
- Advanced knowledge of crypto assets, blockchains and onchain technology.
- Advanced knowledge of common schemes and threats that leverage crypto assets and blockchain technology, as well as onchain obfuscation tactics.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; ability to explain complex crypto concepts to non-technical audiences.
- Ability to work independently on multiple time-sensitive matters with minimal supervision.
- Expert proficiency with computer programs, data analysis tools, and Office suite applications.
- Strong relationship management and collaboration skills.
Work Conditions
- Hybrid work environment, with a defined in-person presence requirement of 3 days in the office per week.