I’m excited to share my executive biography—a reflection of my 28-year journey through operations, information governance, privacy compliance, and AI strategy. From my beginnings in litigation support to leading national-scale engagements and launching AABCO Consulting, it’s been a rewarding path of leadership, growth, and impact.

I'm honored to share my professional biography, reflecting a lifelong journey through risk management, corporate governance, and public service. Over the decades, I’ve had the privilege to lead transformative initiatives in Fortune 500 companies, serve on nonprofit boards, and mentor tomorrow’s leaders.

In today’s financial services landscape, regulatory compliance is more than just a legal necessity — it’s a strategic driver of trust and growth. At Simple Financial LLC, we’ve embedded compliance into every layer of our operations, from onboarding to marketing, transforming it from a check-the-box task into a competitive advantage. By integrating compliance early in planning, tying it to individual performance, and maintaining a proactive risk checklist, we ensure that regulatory alignment supports—not stifles—our scalability and client confidence. When compliance is built into your culture, it becomes the foundation for sustainable success.

After 27 years in law enforcement—including 23 years with the DEA—I’ve transitioned into a new chapter as a leadership coach, speaker, and consultant. I’m proud to share my journey and purpose as I continue to serve others through Kairos Coaching and Consulting. Here is my biography.

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, building a culture of compliance has become a critical cornerstone for sustainable success. It's no longer just about adhering to regulations; it's about fostering an environment where ethical decision-making is embedded into every level of the organization. As George Chamberlain highlights, the most successful compliance initiatives are championed from the top, where leadership sets the tone through actions and accountability. By integrating compliance into core business processes, providing transparent communication, and emphasizing continuous improvement, organizations can transform compliance from a checkbox exercise into a strategic advantage. Ultimately, a robust culture of compliance not only mitigates risk but also enhances reputation, strengthens stakeholder trust, and positions businesses for long-term growth in an era of heightened transparency and scrutiny.

Terence Johnson is an accomplished Risk and Compliance Testing professional with over a decade of experience ensuring financial institutions adhere to federal and state regulations. As a licensed attorney, he brings a strong analytical and legal foundation to his work, specializing in risk assessments, control testing, and regulatory change management. Throughout his career, he has played a key role in developing compliance frameworks, identifying control gaps, and implementing proactive solutions to strengthen regulatory oversight. His ability to bridge legal expertise with operational compliance has made him a trusted advisor in the financial services industry, ensuring organizations remain compliant while optimizing efficiency and mitigating risk.

I’m excited to share my executive biography, highlighting my experience in corporate strategy, international negotiations, contract management, and financial operations. With a passion for governance, compliance, and business transformation, I’ve dedicated my career to helping organizations navigate complex business landscapes with integrity and strategic foresight.

Daniel Warren, Esq., is a legal and privacy executive specializing in technology, artificial intelligence, data protection, and gaming. With a strong foundation in corporate compliance, contract negotiation, and international privacy regulations, he advises organizations on mitigating legal risks while fostering innovation. Holding multiple privacy certifications, Daniel is a recognized authority in AI governance, data security, and regulatory compliance. His expertise spans jurisdictions across the United States, Europe, Australia, and Latin America, making him a valuable asset for businesses navigating global privacy challenges. Passionate about ethical AI practices and legal strategy, Daniel is actively seeking board and advisory roles where he can apply his knowledge to drive compliance, risk management, and sustainable growth.

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.

Excited to share latest article by Tonnis Poppema, "Navigating the Complexities of Global Legal Compliance." In it, he discusses the growing importance of compliance and ethics in today's business world and the need for compliance officers to transition from reactive problem-solvers to proactive business advisors. If your company is serious about building an ethical, values-based culture, it's time to make room for compliance at the decision-making table. #Compliance #Ethics #Leadership CorporateGovernance #TonnisPoppema