Manager, Affiliate Relationship & Contract Management

American Express National Bank (AENB) is American Express’ U.S. banking operation serving consumer and small business customers with payments, financing, and savings products. AENB accounts for more than 60% of the overall company’s revenues and net income. AENB HQ drives the administration of programs and services provided by AENB, in partnership with the various businesses, functions and executive officers. The AENB COO Office also plays an enterprise role in driving greater consistency, effectiveness, and efficiency across the first line via its Strategic Planning, Control Management, Program Management, and Governance functions.

The Manager, Affiliate Relationship & Contract Management will support affiliate relationships across both AENB and Enterprise affiliate programs through the third-party risk management lifecycle, including planning, due diligence, contract management, ongoing monitoring, issue management, and termination activities. This role will partner closely with internal stakeholders and affiliate partners to promote effective governance, operational discipline, transparency, and compliance with applicable regulatory and policy requirements, including Regulation W and Interagency Guidance on Third-Party Relationships: Risk Management.

This position requires strong relationship management, risk management, collaboration, and communication skills, as the role regularly interfaces with cross-functional business partners, governance teams, and senior leadership. The successful candidate will have experience supporting affiliate or third-party management programs, governance frameworks, contracting processes, and risk-based oversight activities within a highly regulated environment. An understanding of American Express products, processes, organization, and governance processes is required.

• Manage affiliate relationships and contractual activities across the third-party risk management lifecycle for both AENB and Enterprise programs
• Execute risk-based due diligence and ongoing monitoring activities aligned to established governance standards and risk assessments
• Monitor adherence to the enterprise and AENB Third-Party Management Policy (AEMP 10 & AENB 10) and Transactions with Affiliates Policy (AENB 58)
• Facilitate regular engagement with affiliate partners and internal stakeholders to review performance, risks, issues, and remediation activities
• Create, maintain and monitor contractual documentation, service level agreements and related performance metrics
• Support affiliate management governance processes that identify and address risks, gaps, and action plans.     
• Ensure all activities are executed in accordance with applicable regulatory expectations, including Regulation W-23B and the Interagency Guidance on Third-Party Relationships: Risk Management
• Identify, escalate, and support remediation of governance gaps, risks, and control issues
• Maintain strong working relationships with key business partners and stakeholders, including but not limited to: US Consumer Services, Global Commercial Services, Global Servicing Group, Credit and Fraud Risk, Technology, Legal, and Finance/Controllership.
• Work closely with the Affiliate Management Governance and Monitoring and Reporting teams to share monthly, quarterly, and annual performance results with Bank and Affiliate Operational and Executive Owners as well as the Business Unit Affiliate Owners and Legal Entity Affiliate Owners.

• 3 – 5+ years of banking, operational risk, third-party risk management, and/or relationship, vendor, or contract management experience, with a focus on developing and executing risk-based governance solutions
• Strong relationship skills including the ability to effectively and professionally communicate and build positive working relationships with all levels within the organization
• Effective written, verbal, and presentation skills with the ability to influence partners and stakeholders
• High attention to detail and superior organizational and follow-through skills
• Ability to work independently while contributing collaboratively within a team environment
• Proven collaboration skills along with the ability to influence without authority
• Demonstrated initiative and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, highly regulated environment
• Understanding of U.S. banking systems and processes, technical skills/computer knowledge (including excellent Microsoft suite skills) a plus
• Understanding of legal contracts and related governance activities a plus
• Undergraduate degree preferred, graduate degree a plus

Employment eligibility to work with American Express in the United States is required as the company will not pursue visa sponsorship for these positions.

At American Express, our culture is built on a 175-year history of innovation, shared values and Leadership Behaviors, and an unwavering commitment to back our customers, communities, and colleagues. From delivering differentiated products to providing world-class customer service, we operate with a strong risk mindset, ensuring we continue to uphold our brand promise of trust, security, and service.

As part of Team Amex, you’ll experience our powerful backing with comprehensive support for your holistic well-being and many opportunities to learn new skills, develop as a leader, and grow your career. Here, your voice and ideas matter, your work makes an impact, and together, you will help us define the future of American Express.

We back you with benefits that support your holistic well-being so you can be and deliver your best. This means caring for you and your loved ones' physical, financial, and mental health, as well as providing the flexibility you need to thrive personally and professionally:

• Competitive base salaries
• Bonus incentives
• 6% Company Match on retirement savings plan
• Free financial coaching and financial well-being support
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and disability benefits
• Flexible working model with hybrid, onsite or virtual arrangements depending on role and business need
• 20+ weeks paid parental leave for all parents, regardless of gender, offered for pregnancy, adoption or surrogacy
• Free access to global on-site wellness centers staffed with nurses and doctors (depending on location)
• Free and confidential counseling support through our Healthy Minds program
• Career development and training opportunities

For a full list of Team Amex benefits, visit our Colleague Benefits Site.