I’m proud to share a comprehensive look at my professional journey across sports, law, and organizational leadership. Throughout my 45-year career, I’ve had the privilege of serving in executive roles within the NFL, guiding universities and organizations through complex challenges, and shaping policies that strengthen the integrity of sports. As I move into the next chapter of my work, I remain committed to leadership grounded in integrity, strategy, and service. Here is my biography.

Implementing a robust compliance program requires a deliberate, structured approach that embeds integrity into every layer of an organization. It begins with strong executive leadership that sets a clear tone at the top, supported by defined governance and empowered compliance officers. Regular risk assessments help organizations stay ahead of evolving regulations and emerging technologies, informing the development of clear, practical policies and procedures. Ongoing training and open communication ensure employees understand their responsibilities, while continuous monitoring, auditing, and incident management safeguard the effectiveness of controls. By enforcing standards consistently and embracing continuous improvement, organizations build a resilient compliance framework that not only meets regulatory requirements but also strengthens trust, mitigates risk, and enhances long-term competitive advantage.

Valerie Towery is an accomplished financial services compliance executive with extensive experience in regulatory compliance, risk management, and operational efficiency. As Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer at Visa Global Services Inc., Valerie oversees AML/BSA compliance and manages teams across the U.S. and the UK, driving initiatives to enhance compliance frameworks and mitigate financial crime risks. Her expertise spans a range of financial sectors, having held leadership roles at Worldpay, SquareTwo Financial, and Western Union, where she developed and implemented robust compliance programs, navigated complex regulatory landscapes, and optimized compliance operations. A U.S. Army Reserve veteran and fluent Russian speaker, Valerie’s global cultural awareness, strategic insight, and commitment to ethical standards continue to make a significant impact in the financial services industry.

Thomas Tutaj, MBA, CHC, CHPC, is a seasoned compliance and business operations leader with over 30 years of experience in healthcare, insurance, and financial management. Known for his integrity and commitment to fostering ethical practices, Thomas has a proven track record of designing and implementing effective compliance programs across Medicare, Medicaid, and managed care environments. His strategic vision, combined with deep regulatory expertise, enables him to align compliance initiatives with organizational goals, ensuring both operational excellence and regulatory adherence. A skilled communicator and relationship builder, Thomas leverages his leadership to drive business success while maintaining the highest standards of accountability and transparency.

Jeffrey Miller is a seasoned expert in governance, risk management, and compliance with over two decades of experience leading corporate compliance initiatives in the healthcare and life sciences industries. Currently serving as Director-in-Charge at Granite Governance, Risk and Compliance, LLC, Jeffrey has built a reputation for integrity and strategic leadership. His career spans senior roles at notable organizations including Saxton & Stump, LLC, Asterion Consulting, and Biomet 3i, where he oversaw complex compliance programs and corporate integrity agreements. Jeffrey’s deep knowledge of healthcare law and regulatory compliance is complemented by his ability to craft innovative solutions to navigate evolving legal landscapes. In addition to his executive roles, he contributes to the field as an adjunct professor at Villanova University and through publications on compliance and cybersecurity, reinforcing his position as a thought leader in the industry.

I’m excited to share my professional biography with you all. With over 36 years in global legal, compliance, and business operations, I’ve had the privilege of working extensively in private equity, hedge funds, and fund formation. My career has been dedicated to creating and expanding legal teams and compliance programs, advising on investment transactions, and ensuring effective governance. I take pride in balancing commercial and legal considerations while also focusing on mentoring and elevating team members. My strategic insights and communication skills have been integral in driving organizational success and fostering a collaborative environment. I invite you to read more about my journey and the work I’ve done in the industry.

Whether you’re a start-up or an international conglomerate, a robust Governance Risk and Compliance (GRC) program is essential to protect against financial, regulatory, and reputational risks. As the landscape evolves with advanced technologies and regulatory changes, organizations must adopt a proactive and collaborative approach. Effective GRC programs address key questions regarding internal responsibilities, expert involvement, and strategies for mitigating threats. Managing vendor relations, consolidating systems, and aligning to meaningful metrics are crucial. A strong GRC framework requires ongoing revision, adaptation, and commitment from senior leadership to ensure resilience and effectiveness across the enterprise.