Catherine Guzzi
Neptune City,NJ
Summary
CAMS-certified banking and audit professional with a strong background in internal audit, BSA/AML compliance, branch operations, and regulatory testing. Expertise in executing comprehensive audit procedures, assessing internal controls, and ensuring adherence to BSA/AML requirements while preparing meticulous workpapers for financial institution clients. Proficient in reviewing Customer Identification Programs (CIP), Customer Due Diligence (CDD), suspicious activity monitoring, and sanctions compliance. Strong ability to communicate observations and regulatory risks effectively to clients and engagement teams. Committed to enhancing operational integrity and compliance within the banking sector through diligent analysis and strategic insights.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Staff Associate
Mercadien
Hamilton, NJ
11.2019 - Current
- Perform audit and compliance testing for financial institution clients, including executing test work, conducting client inquiries, reviewing supporting documentation, and preparing complete and accurate workpapers in accordance with engagement requirements.
- Support risk-based BSA/AML audits by assessing the adequacy of compliance programs relative to the institution’s risk profile, including review of internal controls, independent testing, and overall program effectiveness.
- Evaluate key BSA/AML compliance areas such as Customer Identification Program (CIP), Customer Due Diligence (CDD), suspicious activity reporting, and other regulatory requirements using applicable examination procedures.
- Assist in identifying control deficiencies, exceptions, and reportable conditions within assigned engagement areas and escalate issues to supervisory personnel for further review and resolution.
- Review banking operations and organizational processes to develop an understanding of client business activities, internal control environments, and compliance obligations impacting audit scope and testing.
- Contribute to audit efficiency by managing assigned tasks within 1 budget guidelines, maintaining organized engagement files, and participating in debrief meetings to communicate results and observations.
- Perform testing over higher-risk banking and AML areas, including suspicious activity monitoring, customer due diligence, and sanctions/OFAC-related compliance topics addressed within regulatory examination frameworks.
- Collaborate with engagement teams and client personnel to obtain evidence, analyze exceptions, and support delivery of high-quality audit and compliance reports for financial institution clients.
- Discuss regulatory issues and risks with clients throughout the duration of audit engagements.
- Generated reports detailing findings and recommendations.
Banking Center Supervisor
Provident Bank
Freehold, NJ
01.2017 - 11.2019
- Led and coached Bank Associates; assisted with scheduling, performance management, and training while supporting a positive team environment.
- Performed monthly branch audits, opening and closing procedures, and operational control functions while ensuring adherence to bank policies, identity verification requirements, and service standards.
- Drove customer referrals, cross-selling, and relationship growth through strong product knowledge and proactive customer support.
- Acted as branch leader in the absence of the Banking Center Manager, overseeing operations, sales management, and branch productivity.
- Supervised daily operations, ensuring compliance with banking regulations and policies.
- Oversaw customer account management, resolving complex inquiries effectively.
- Improved team morale and productivity with effective communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
In-Store Customer Service Representative
PNC Bank
Middletown, NJ
10.2013 - 08.2015
- Supported customer service and branch operations in a high-volume in-store banking environment.
- Assisted customers with account servicing needs, banking transactions, and product-related inquiries.
- Maintained compliance with bank procedures, customer identification standards, and operational controls.
- Resolved customer inquiries efficiently, enhancing satisfaction and loyalty.
- Educated clients on financial products, improving account usage and engagement.
- Trained new staff on customer service protocols, fostering knowledge sharing and teamwork.
- Resolved customer complaints with empathy, resulting in increased loyalty and repeat business.
Head Teller / Teller II
TD Bank
Various NJ Branches & Cherry Grove, SC
06.2009 - 09.2014
- Supervised daily teller line operations, served as the escalation point for complex transactions, and supported efficient branch workflow and customer service delivery.
- Managed cash operations, including teller drawer reconciliation, vault balancing, ATM/TCR/TCD balancing, and adherence to branch cash controls.
- Ensured compliance with bank procedures and regulatory requirements, including customer authentication, BSA-related operational controls, and transaction security standards.
- Trained and coached teller staff on operational procedures, customer service expectations, and transaction accuracy.
- Resolved customer issues, investigated balancing discrepancies, and escalated exceptions to branch leadership when necessary.
- Answered inquiries regarding checking and savings accounts and other related products.
Education
Associate’s Degree - Education
Brookdale Community College
Lincroft, NJ01-2010
Skills
- Banking Internal Audit
- BSA/AML Compliance
- AML/CFT Audits
- Customer Identification Program (CIP)
- Customer Due Diligence (CDD)
- Suspicious Activity Monitoring & Reporting
- Sanctions / OFAC Compliance
- Regulatory Compliance Testing
- Internal Controls Evaluation
- Risk Assessment
- Workpaper Preparation
- Branch Operations Oversight
- Teller Operations & Cash Controls
- Staff Supervision & Training
- Client Communication
Certification
Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) – December 2021
Timeline
Staff Associate
Mercadien
11.2019 - Current
Banking Center Supervisor
Provident Bank
01.2017 - 11.2019
In-Store Customer Service Representative
PNC Bank
10.2013 - 08.2015
Head Teller / Teller II
TD Bank
06.2009 - 09.2014
Associate’s Degree - Education
Brookdale Community College