Simone Maitland
Simone Maitland is an accomplished financial crimes professional with more than a decade of experience in the financial industry, including leadership roles at JPMorgan Chase and MUFG. She currently serves as Assistant Vice President for Global Financial Crimes at MUFG, where she oversees quality testing programs and assesses risk to safeguard the organization against financial crime. With expertise in risk assessment, policy development, budgeting, and strategic management, Simone has built a reputation for her analytical precision and her ability to develop forward-looking solutions that strengthen compliance frameworks and protect organizations from emerging threats.
Beyond her technical expertise, Simone is deeply committed to leadership, communication, and diversity as catalysts for innovation. She has played key roles in the Global Financial Crimes Women’s Leadership Program and the Contest and Community pod, championing opportunities for professional growth and inclusion. She attributes much of her success to her mentor, Danny, who instilled in her the importance of continuous learning and resilience. Passionate about guiding the next generation, Simone advises young women entering her field to sharpen their communication skills, embrace reinvention, and build strong, collaborative teams.
Simone’s academic achievements include both a bachelor’s degree and an MBA in business from the University of Phoenix, complemented by eight business-related certificates. She is also a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success. Recognized with multiple awards, including the Obsession Award from JPMorgan (2017–2019) and honors for outstanding service with the Department of Child Support in Arizona (2014), Simone continues to distinguish herself as both a leader and mentor. Raised in Jamaica, she credits her upbringing for shaping her passion for lifelong learning, problem-solving, and creating opportunities. Outside of her professional career, she is actively involved in organizations such as the EPA Track Club and Junior Achievement, where she shares her love for community building—and often her Jamaican cooking—while inspiring others to pursue their own paths with determination and purpose.
• University of Phoenix - MBA
• Bachelor of Business
• Project Management, Negotiating, Budgeting
• Digital Intelligence
• Strategy Planning and Execution
• NSLS
• GFCD Women Network
• CAB
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my mentor, Danny, who encouraged me to embrace continuous learning and avoid complacency. He taught me that growth comes from being open to new challenges and never settling for what is comfortable. His guidance gave me the confidence to take risks, reinvent myself when needed, and stay committed to becoming a stronger leader and professional with every experience.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to prioritize strong communication skills, as they are fundamental to effective leadership and collaboration. Focus on building and nurturing high-performing teams, and never hesitate to reinvent yourself when new opportunities or challenges arise. Embracing adaptability and continuous growth will allow you to excel and create lasting impact in the field.