Silvia Merino-Topley, senior vice president and chief compliance officer at Kearny Bank, has been selected as the Eastern Region recipient of the prestigious 2026 Compliance Leader Award.
The annual honor is presented by Compliance Alliance, a leading nationwide compliance service provider. The award is designed to recognize industry professionals who demonstrate an exceptional commitment to their institutions, their local communities, and the broader banking landscape.
A resident of Garfield, Merino-Topley brings over three decades of expertise to her role. Her career in the banking sector began in 1990, and she joined the Kearny Bank leadership team in 2020. Since then, she has been instrumental in navigating the complex regulatory environment that defines modern finance.
“The award recognizes outstanding compliance professionals who’ve made significant contributions to their companies, communities, and the banking industry,” noted the award committee.
The formal presentation of the award will take place this May during the American Bankers Association (ABA) Risk and Compliance Conference in Charlotte, N.C. This national stage highlights the significance of Merino-Topley’s contributions to the field of risk management and regulatory adherence.
As Chief Compliance Officer, Merino-Topley continues to oversee the strategic implementation of compliance programs for Kearny Bank, ensuring the institution maintains its standard of integrity and service within the Eastern Region.
