CCO Insight: Future of Compliance

“What's old is new. Innovative technology and emerging risks drive the need for the role of compliance to continually evolve and reshape to be fit-for-purpose.”

Laura Byerly

Managing Director

As the Chief Compliance Officer (CCO) role becomes more future-focused, CCO priorities are evolving to meet a changing risk landscape. A recent discussion among a cross-industry group of CCOs focused on this evolution, prompted in part by the findings in the KPMG 2026 CCO Survey. The following outlines top of mind topics, common themes, and popular concepts from that discussion.

Talent & Workforce: Continue to identify future skills needed to best support technology and business operations, and pair compliance skills with an understanding of the regulatory environment and data science.

Operating Model: Contingent on deploying a consistent approach to identify and measure risks across the organization, which may include efforts to expand oversight to non-compliance risks; integrate compliance controls into business processes; utilize offshore resources such as a Global Capability Center (GCC); and respond to emerging risks (e.g., prediction markets).

Budget Prioritization & Investment: Analyze resources to include the appropriate complement of staff with technology tools while anticipating the future role of Compliance.

CCOs are focused on fortifying operational resilience against all kinds of risks, threats, and financial crime. Looking ahead, improving identification and management of cybersecurity risks and integrating data analytics for proactive third-party risk management (TPRM) are likely to be primary investment drivers for their organizations.

The role of the CCO has shifted from a traditionally reactive steward of rules and procedures to a proactive, data-driven leader who not only manages risk but also enables growth. CCOs are keen to change the perception of the compliance function from a cost center to a strategic business unit that can enhance brand reputation and drive value. CCOs are increasingly collaborating across functions to support business objectives.