James Thomas
Risk & Compliance Executive | Enterprise Risk Management | Governance, Risk & Control (GRC) Leader | Board & Regulator Engagement | Building Risk Cultures
- Role
- Director of Internal Audit at American Express
- Location
- Garden City, NY, US
- LinkedIn followers
- 500 followers
About James Thomas
I am a seasoned Risk and Compliance Executive with over 15 years of experience shaping enterprise-wide risk management frameworks across global financial institutions including American Express, New York Life, AIG, Zurich, and Bank of America. Recognized for demonstrating a natural aptitude for risk governance, as well as for designing integrated frameworks and GRC programs, I have a verifiable history of advancing corporate resilience, strengthening oversight, and building governance cultures that empower organizations to make informed, risk-based decisions. My professional focal points include enterprise risk management, operational resilience, governance frameworks, regulatory engagement, and emerging risk identification, as well as leadership of key risk programs such as RCSA, Issues Management, and Emerging Risk. Delivering superior administration in these areas requires a deep understanding of business strategy, risk analytics, communication, and stakeholder management to align enterprise objectives with regulatory expectations.Currently, I serve as Corporate Vice President, Enterprise Risk Management at New York Life Insurance, where I lead the strategic advancement of enterprise-wide GRC capabilities. Under my leadership, we have delivered 80+ platform enhancements, standardized key risk programs, and embedded risk ownership across all lines of business. I also partner with senior executives and board committees to integrate risk insights into decision-making, ensuring that governance structures are not only compliant but value-adding.Colleagues describe me as a progressive, pragmatic, and collaborative leader who brings clarity to complexity and can be relied on to offer practical, high-impact solutions that protect both performance and reputation.I am always open to connecting with peers, former colleagues, and other leaders in the risk and compliance community. Please feel free to contact me through this profile.
Experience
Director of Internal Audit
Dec 2025 — Present · NY, US
Education
University of North Texas
BBA, Business Finance
2006 — 2008
Zicklin School of Business
Master of Science - MS, Financial Risk Management
2020 — 2021
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