Ellyn
Higgins

WHO I HELP

Internal team members.

HOW I HELP

Risk management. Compliance. Anti-money laundering. Economic crime prevention.

SECTORS/SUPPORT

Across all AAB departments.

“COMPLIANCE IS SO MUCH MORE THAN A TICK-BOX EXERCISE.”

Ellyn Higgins is a compliance manager based in Leeds. She plays a crucial role in ensuring that AAB and our clients operate safely within regulatory frameworks. Specialising in anti-money laundering (AML) and economic crime prevention, she monitors compliance across AAB, keeping up to date with evolving legislation and ensuring we remain proactive in mitigating risks. By implementing robust compliance strategies and working closely with teams at all levels, Ellyn enables us to meet our objectives without compromising on regulatory integrity.

DRIVING BUSINESS SUCCESS THROUGH KNOWLEDGE SHARING

“The most satisfying part of my role is knowing that what I do directly supports AAB’s growth and success. I thrive on knowledge sharing, and some of my favourite moments happen when I see that ‘lightbulb’ moment on a colleague’s face—when they truly understand why compliance matters. It’s about more than just rules and regulations; it’s about protecting our business, our people, and our clients. I support all colleagues in becoming compliance professionals, equipping them with the tools and knowledge they need to navigate risks effectively.”

AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO COMPLIANCE

“Just because something has always been done a certain way doesn’t mean it’s the best approach. I constantly look for innovative ways to manage compliance responsibilities and ensure we’re always ahead of regulatory requirements. Compliance isn’t about ticking boxes—it’s about making meaningful improvements that protect our business while allowing it to grow. By embracing change and challenging outdated processes, we can create a more resilient and efficient compliance framework.”

ENHANCING THE CLIENT EXPERIENCE USING TECHNOLOGY

“Technology is essential in providing a slick experience for our clients. As we continue to offer services on a more non-face-to-face basis, the ideal relationship is that our clients still feel that personal touch, even though they could be hundreds of miles away. I’m looking forward to supporting AAB in implementing digital processes that enhance client experience whilst remaining within our risk and compliance appetite and obligations.”

THE REGULATORY LANDSCAPE IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING—AND SO ARE WE.

“One of the biggest challenges in compliance is keeping pace with ever-changing regulations. The current geopolitical and economic climate has brought major shifts, particularly in sanctions regimes. As a professional services firm, AAB must be quick to adapt, ensuring we stay ahead of changes and continue to support our clients effectively. I take pride in staying informed and translating complex regulatory updates into clear, actionable guidance for our teams. It’s a challenge, but one that keeps me motivated every day.”

DEVELOPING OUR COMPLIANCE PRACTICES AS WE SCALE

“AAB’s rapid expansion is one of the most exciting aspects of being part of this team. Growth brings increased exposure to new compliance risks, and I’m looking forward to stepping outside of my comfort zone to tackle these challenges. As we scale, I’ll be working to ensure that our compliance processes evolve alongside the business, maintaining our commitment to ethical and responsible operations. The opportunity to shape compliance strategies in a dynamic environment is something I truly value.”

STRENGTHENED BY RESPECT AND TRUST

“AAB’s commitment to its people is one of the reasons I love working here. Trust and respect are the foundation of any high-performing team. We all share a common vision, but it’s our diverse skills and perspectives that drive us forward. I know I can rely on my colleagues for support, just as they can rely on me to help them navigate compliance complexities. By fostering a culture of collaboration and trust, we create an environment where everyone can thrive.”