During the 2025 AICP IOM – Alliance of Isle of Man Compliance Professionals – Manx State of the Nation, Robert Dunn participated as a panelist in the session, “A Day in the Life of an International Sanctions Manager.”

Rob was honoured to join a panel discussing such a broad and internationally significant topic. While he is not our in-house Sanctions Manager, Rob serves as our Compliance Officer and takes a strong interest in sanctions. He focuses on how best to protect and educate the team on these important matters.

His expertise was evident during the panel discussion, where he answered questions from an audience of 250 directors and compliance professionals. Rob’s key points included:

• Tailor Communication: Adjust the language when delivering training. Frontline staff, or “boots on the ground” as Rob calls them, need straightforward guidance. Conversations with compliance professionals can use more technical terms.
• Prioritize Relevant Updates: Sanctions change quickly, especially during geopolitical shifts. Filter out irrelevant news and focus on what directly impacts the business.
• Combine Tech with Human Insight: Automated sanction checks are helpful but should have human oversight for accuracy and context.
• Document Everything: Record findings, decisions, and actions clearly. Proper documentation demonstrates how conclusions were reached.
• Share Knowledge: Collaborate with peers through industry networks like Communities of Practice.
• Investigate Thoroughly: Complex structures often hide risks. If something seems off, investigate further and report any concerns.

Rob appreciated the opportunity to share insights alongside Megan Gardner, Lucie Kennedy, and Erica Humphries, with Martyna Kennish Int.Dip(AML) leading the audience’s questions. The experience was both rewarding and informative, reinforcing the importance of clear communication and proactive compliance strategies.