With almost 25 years of experience in the banking industry, Salvatore Zerilli is Managing Director and head of the firm’s Financial Institutions Services Group. He is a subject matter expert in numerous topics relating to the banking industry. As Chair of the Financial Institutions Services Group, Sal stays up-to-date on the strict policies and regulations affecting these institutions and focuses on helping his clients navigate any concerns they may have. He provides oversight and direction to his team out in the field, takes clients step-by-step to guide them through whatever challenge they are currently facing, and keeps his team in house running as smoothly as possible, all while making his clients feel valued and attended to, as if they are his only client. Sal knows that leveraging good talent is the best thing a leader can do. He gives his team the control they need, but is always there to help them through any challenges.
Sal’s experience allows him to live by his motto, “Don’t be afraid to take calculated risks.” He is a sought-after expert in his field, specializing in the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) and USA PATRIOT Act, bank operations, asset and liability management, liquidity management, information technology, and regulatory compliance. Sal works closely with his clients, assuring they implement and execute operational and compliance programs appropriately and meet the strict guidelines of the federal and state regulators. He works with his clients to think strategically on how to mitigate concerns brought on by examiners, develops a game plan, and leverages his team to execute the plan.
Before joining Mercadien, Sal was able to gain invaluable experience at a small to mid-sized New York City bank, working in everything from IT to Human Resources to Accounting, and even pitching in on customer service. He worked at another New Jersey firm as a director, where he built out the BSA practice and helped grow the company. Sal also worked for a Big Four firm where he provided external bank audits. Continuing to grow at Mercadien, he participates on the firm’s executive committee and mentors his team and other associates.
Personal Fact: Sal’s grandfather opened Court Pastry in Brooklyn, NY in 1948. He worked in the bakery from 9 years old through college, helping his family make pastries and stuff cannolis. Sal is married, has two children, and lives in Millstone Twp., NJ. He enjoys spending time with his family, watching both the Yankees and the Mets.
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