In the world of compliance, integrity isn’t just a core value—it’s the foundation upon which everything rests. One of the most critical qualities a good compliance officer must have is the ability to maintain integrity, even when external pressures are high. The temptation to compromise can be strong, whether from fear of losing a paycheck or not wanting to create tension within the team. But if you don’t stand firm in the face of risk, you compromise more than your own role—you endanger the entire organization.
Often, I witness compliance professionals torn between two choices: Should I speak up and risk being disliked, or compromise and stay silent to keep the peace? This is particularly true in environments where open discussion on risk is avoided at all costs. However, silence can lead to disastrous outcomes. Organizations need to mature and realize that addressing risk head-on is a sign of strength, not conflict. Mature teams understand that real discussions—including those about risk and governance—are crucial for sustainable success.
It’s easy to be pressured into staying quiet, especially if you want to avoid being labeled as the "bad news" bearer. But this role isn’t about being liked; it’s about ensuring the organization is safe, compliant, and ethically sound. In some cases, you might be the only person holding the line. But if you don’t act, who will? As a compliance officer, it’s your responsibility to speak up when there’s a risk, even if it means standing alone.
This brings to mind a powerful verse from the Quran:
"O believers! Stand firm for justice as witnesses for Allah even if it is against yourselves, your parents, or close relatives. Be they rich or poor, Allah is best to ensure their interests. So do not let your desires cause you to deviate from justice. If you distort the testimony or refuse to give it, then know that Allah is certainly All-Aware of what you do." (Quran 4:135)
This verse is a profound reminder that integrity and justice must be upheld, even when it’s uncomfortable or unpopular. It emphasizes that we should never let personal desires—or the fear of confrontation—distract us from doing what’s right.
Too often, I’ve witnessed compliance professionals compromise, staying silent when they know the organization is heading toward a risky path. They aim to avoid confrontation or tension, but this only allows risks to fester. A healthy organization must foster an environment where risks are discussed openly, and this starts with the compliance team. Compliance officers must be empowered to call out issues without fear of repercussion.
Ultimately, the true value of your role lies in your ability to act with integrity, regardless of the consequences. You are the gatekeeper of governance and transparency, ensuring that the organization stays true to its values and is compliant with regulations. If you compromise, the entire system starts to erode.
So, the next time you find yourself standing at the crossroads, ask yourself: Will I stand firm or fall for convenience? The choices you make don’t just protect the organization—they protect its people, its reputation, its future, and, most importantly, your own integrity as a compliance professional.
Thank you for taking the time to reflect on this. Integrity in compliance is not always the easy path, but it’s the one that leads to long-term success. Let’s stay committed to doing what’s right, even when it feels like we’re the only ones standing. True impact is made when we pair integrity with action, and when we refuse to waver in our pursuit of doing the right thing. May Allah grant us the strength to uphold our principles in all that we do. Until next time, JazakAllah Khair!
Rahimah Kashim
Practicing leader At Oktriz