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Harry Kastenbaum
Head of Bank Regulatory at Square Financial Services, Inc. (Block's Bank)
Professional Background
Harry Kastenbaum is a seasoned legal professional specializing in corporate law and financial regulations, with an impressive background that spans multiple prestigious organizations within the banking and finance sector. He began his career with foundational roles that allowed him to deepen his understanding of regulatory compliance and corporate governance. Harry has held key positions such as Banking Regulatory Counsel at Block, where he currently leads efforts in navigating complex banking regulations and ensuring compliance across the organization.
Before joining Block, Harry showcased his expertise as the U.S. Bank Regulatory Director & Senior Counsel at RBC. In this pivotal role, he was responsible for overseeing compliance with federal regulations that impact banking operations, an essential function in today's highly regulated financial environment. His ascent at RBC also included serving as the U.S. Bank Regulatory Associate Director & Senior Counsel, demonstrating a deep commitment to ensuring that the bank operated within the legal frameworks established by financial authorities.
Previously, he held the role of Vice President in the Global Compliance Regulatory Office at TD, where he was instrumental in developing compliance strategies that adhered to both national and international banking regulations. During his tenure at TD, he gained valuable experience working on critical projects such as the Dodd-Frank Act and G20 compliance initiatives, where he further honed his skills in risk management and compliance.
Harry's legal foundation was built early in his career at WestLB as a Legal Associate, where he engaged in various legal matters affecting the bank's operations. His career began with an internship at Nasdaq, where he first embraced the legal challenges of the financial markets, providing him with unique insights into the compliance needs of trading platforms and financial institutions.
Education and Achievements
Harry Kastenbaum's educational journey laid the groundwork for his successful career in law and finance. He earned a Juris Doctor (JD) degree with a concentration in Corporate Law from Cardozo School of Law, a program renowned for its comprehensive curriculum and its emphasis on practical experience. Harry's legal education was complemented by a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Political Science and History from Bucknell University, where he developed a strong analytical framework that continues to guide his approach to legal issues today.
Further enriching his academic credentials, Harry's formative education began at Riverdale Country School, where he built a foundation that fostered critical thinking and effective communication skills – both crucial attributes for a successful legal career.
Harry’s achievements extend beyond his professional experience. He is recognized within the legal community for his contributions to compliance best practices and guidance on navigating the complexities of banking regulations. His expertise in interpreting and applying legislative guidelines is not only pivotal in his roles but also serves as a resource for colleagues and peers in the industry.
Achievements
- Banking Regulatory Expertise: Harry has established himself as a trusted advisor in banking regulation, showcasing his ability to navigate and manage the intricacies of federal compliance requirements, particularly around recent reforms and legislation like the Dodd-Frank Act.
- Leadership Roles: His previous senior roles across several financial institutions, including positions at RBC and TD, highlight Harry's capability in leadership and strategic guidance within compliance frameworks.
- Corporate Law Acumen: With a concentration in corporate law from Cardozo, Harry adeptly addresses the legal requirements of businesses, ensuring their operations align with changing laws and policies.
- Impact on Compliance Practices: Throughout his career, he has implemented compliance programs that have significantly improved the operational integrity and regulatory posture of the organizations he has worked for, yielding recognition from industry peers and regulatory agencies.
Harry Kastenbaum's journey through both education and professional experience showcases a commitment to excellence in the legal field, particularly within banking and corporate law. His ongoing contributions continue to shape the legal landscape, proving indispensable to the financial industry's ongoing commitment to regulatory compliance.