Krista Santoro, MD; Head of North America Currencies and Emerging Markets Compliance, JP Morgan, won Excellence in Compliance at Markets Media Group’s 2025 U.S. Women in Finance Awards.

What does this recognition mean to you personally and professionally?

It is an honor to be recognized by this organization for my role in Compliance.  Often the work done outside of the front office is perceived as being less exciting , so is fantastic to see Compliance getting the recognition it deserves.  It was also an amazing experience to be at an iconic venue like the Plaza surrounded by so many other impressive and accomplished women.  

Have you had mentors who’ve shaped your approach to leadership and compliance?

I have had the tremendous benefit of having so many managers and mentors over the years who have helped me to learn and grow; including women who have led through their example and men who have been allies.  In particular, the managers I had in my first sales and trading coverage role, both women, were instrumental.  I often think about how their expertise helped me to navigate novel issues during the financial crisis in 2008 and how that translates to how I do my job today.  

How do you see the role of compliance professionals changing as technology reshapes markets and regulation?

Technology will change the Compliance role in so many ways.  We will need to enhance our skill set to analyze and try to anticipate emerging issues for technology use cases. It is also critical for compliance professional to develop their skills in using technology such  as artificial intelligence and machine learning..    Technology will aid compliance to do its job more effectively  in areas such as risk assessments freeing up time to focus on proactive, substantive Compliance solutions.

What advice would you give to young professionals looking to build meaningful careers in finance and compliance?

First, Compliance is a great career with many different paths, options and opportunities for growth.  Second, ask the questions.  Sometimes, particularly in the early part of our careers, people do not feel confident asking questions when being asked to give a compliance view. However, understanding context as fully as possible is essential to giving thoughtful answers, helping to mitigate risk and in succeeding in the role.