In a fast-paced world of evolving regulations and disruptive technologies, compliance can often feel like an uphill battle. But for Josh Quinto, Chief Risk and Compliance Officer at PayMongo, compliance isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s a strategic enabler of trust, innovation, and growth. His journey into this field, marked by curiosity and resilience, has shaped a vision of compliance that’s as much about ethics as it is about business.
From Chance to Calling: The Journey of a Compliance Leader
Josh didn’t set out to become a compliance officer—it was an unexpected turn that defined his career. “I became a compliance officer by chance,” he shares. With no one else willing to lead the compliance team, Josh stepped up, embracing the challenge head-on. “I was eager to learn and grow in a new area,” he explains.
What started as a leap into the unknown became a career built on deep expertise and impactful leadership. Over the years, Josh has worked with various financial institutions, honing his skills in risk management and compliance. “I’ve seen how the right risk management programs don’t just protect organizations—they help them grow responsibly and sustainably,” he says.
Navigating Complex Decisions with Integrity and Collaboration
When facing murky or ambiguous compliance issues, Josh turns to his core values to guide him. “Integrity is my compass,” he explains. “I focus on what’s fair and ethical, even when the situation is challenging or unclear.”
This focus on ethics doesn’t mean working in isolation. Josh prioritizes teamwork and open communication, believing the best decisions come from collaboration. “It’s not about just doing what’s required—it’s about doing what’s right,” he emphasizes, a philosophy that has earned him trust and respect in his field.
The Dance Between Compliance and Innovation
In an era where technologies like AI and blockchain are outpacing regulations, compliance leaders are often caught in a tug-of-war between risk and innovation. For Josh, this isn’t a conflict—it’s an opportunity.
“Compliance and innovation go hand in hand,” he says. His approach? Integrating compliance into the innovation process from the outset. “By addressing risks early, we avoid costly fixes down the line and ensure compliance isn’t seen as a roadblock but a partner.”
Josh also stays ahead of the curve by engaging with regulators and peers. “We don’t just follow the standards—we contribute to shaping them,” he explains. His vision is to help organizations adopt emerging technologies responsibly, creating a balance between opportunity and accountability.
When Compliance Became More Than a Rulebook
One pivotal experience shaped Josh’s view of compliance as more than a regulatory requirement. “I once worked with a small corporation that was struggling because it didn’t meet compliance standards,” he recalls. “It wasn’t just a legal issue—it was a barrier to their growth and sustainability.”
This moment reframed compliance for Josh. “I realized compliance is about much more than rules. It’s about protecting people, fostering trust, and enabling businesses to grow responsibly.” That understanding has become a cornerstone of his work, as he helps organizations see compliance as a foundation for long-term success.
The Surprising Power of People in Times of Change
Through his career, Josh has gained a deep understanding of human behavior, especially when implementing new or disruptive regulations. “People resist change because they’re unsure how it affects them,” he says. But when you explain the “why” behind a regulation and its impact on the business, something remarkable happens. “People adapt—and not just that, they become creative and resourceful when they feel supported.”
This insight has shaped how Josh leads. He doesn’t just manage compliance—he empowers teams to embrace it. By fostering a sense of ownership and collaboration, he transforms challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation.
Staying Resilient in a Sea of Regulations
With regulations constantly evolving, burnout can be a real risk for compliance teams. For Josh, the antidote lies in staying connected to the bigger picture. “I remind my team that every effort we make contributes to building trust and creating a positive impact,” he shares.
He also creates a supportive environment where team members feel valued and heard. “Motivation comes naturally when people know their work matters,” he says. This approach keeps his team energized, even amid the most demanding challenges.
The Future of Compliance: Ethics, Trust, and Growth
Josh Quinto’s journey is a masterclass in how to transform compliance from a regulatory burden into a strategic advantage. His leadership demonstrates that compliance isn’t just about avoiding risks—it’s about fostering trust, enabling innovation, and creating a fairer business environment.
For Josh, compliance is a driving force for good. “When approached with the right mindset, compliance can unlock potential, build trust, and drive meaningful change,” he says. And with leaders like him at the helm, the future of compliance looks brighter than ever.
