As the landscape continues to shift, companies must prioritize talent development, embrace new technologies, and recognize the growing role of soft skills in compliance leadership. Nic Sterck, Associate Director at Morgan Philips Belgium, describes the new compliance market and what skills the next compliance professionals will need to develop.  

Understanding the Compliance Workforce in Belgium 

In Belgium, there are approximately 1,700 compliance professionals and about 106 compliance officers who hold the legal responsibility for overseeing regulatory compliance within financial institutions.  

Compliance has never been more important. With regulatory requirements increasing and financial institutions facing new risks, demand for compliance professionals is rising fast. But like many markets, Belgium struggles to attract and retain the right talent. 

So, what’s driving this challenge? 

Key Challenges in Attracting Compliance Talent

• A competitive job market – The need for specialized compliance expertise is growing, but the talent pool remains small. 

• Shifting perceptions of compliance – Once seen as a back-office function, compliance has become a strategic driver in financial services. However, more work is needed to position it as a business partner within financial institutions. 

• Commitment to Continuous Learning and Improvement – As regulatory landscapes evolve, compliance professionals must not only stay updated on new regulations but also embrace continuous improvement in their approach. Beyond technical expertise, ongoing development and coaching of soft skills—such as communication, critical thinking, and leadership—are essential for navigating complex regulatory environments and driving a strong compliance culture within organizations. 

To build strong compliance teams, organizations need to rethink their approach to talent. Investing in career development, training, and a strong employer brand will be key to attracting and retaining top professionals. 

Compliance is Transforming – Are We Ready? 

Compliance is no longer just about following the rules—it’s about shaping business strategies, leveraging technology, and staying ahead of risks. Some key trends leading this shift include: 

• Technology as a game-changer: AI, machine learning, and automation are reducing manual work and making compliance more efficient. 

• A proactive approach: Compliance is moving from a reactive function to an integrated part of business strategy. 

• Closer collaboration with business teams: Compliance professionals are now working hand-in-hand with leadership, ensuring compliance is seen as a value driver rather than a cost center. But Compliance Officers must also work closer with the business in general, to better understand the challenges within the organization. 

To keep up with these changes, organizations must equip their compliance teams with the right tools, knowledge, and strategic support. 

Soft Skills: A growing importance for Compliance Professionals 

Technical expertise is critical, but today’s compliance professionals need much more. To be effective, they must be strong communicators, strategic thinkers, and influencers. 

Key soft skills shaping the future of compliance include: 

• Communication – Turning complex regulations into clear, actionable insights for different stakeholders. 

• Critical thinking & problem-solving – Finding solutions that balance regulatory requirements with business needs. 

• Leadership & influence – Driving a strong compliance culture and making an impact at the decision-making level. 

As compliance evolves, professionals who develop these soft skills will stand out and thrive in this dynamic field. 

Read more: Skill-Based Hiring in Today's Dynamic Workforce 

Building the Right Compliance Team: Expertise Matters 

As compliance roles are becoming increasingly strategic, partnering with the right talent experts is essential. At Morgan Philips Belgium, we specialize in recruitment for the financial services sector, helping institutions identify and attract high-potential compliance professionals who combine technical know-how with strong interpersonal skills. Our deep understanding of the Belgian regulatory environment and talent market allows us to support organizations in building resilient, future-ready teams. Learn more about our tailored recruitment solutions in financial services and discover how we help businesses navigate change with confidence. 

* This article is inspired by the exchange of ideas that took place during the Compliance Lunch Debates organized by Talent Integrity, where Nick Sterck was one of the speakers.