Directing compliance realities: the determinants of compliance officer effectiveness in Cypriot organizations

Purpose This study, an empirical study, aims to rigorously investigate the intricate dynamics influencing the effectiveness and performance of compliance officers (COs) within organizations in Cyprus. By delving into the interplay between jurisdictional complexities, industry-specific regulations, organizational size, professional experience, artificial intelligence-based tools and readiness for technology adoption, this research adopts a comprehensive approach to elucidate the multifaceted factors shaping COs’ roles. Using a structural equation modeling framework, data was meticulously gathered through a questionnaire survey distributed to COs across diverse sectors. Design/methodology/approach This empirical study rigorously investigates the intricate dynamics influencing the effectiveness and performance of COs within organizations in Cyprus. By delving into the interplay between jurisdictional complexities, industry-specific regulations, organizational size, professional experience, artificial intelligence-based tools and readiness for technology adoption, this research adopts a comprehensive approach to elucidate the multifaceted factors shaping COs’ roles. Using a structural equation modeling framework, data was meticulously gathered through a questionnaire survey distributed to COs across diverse sectors. The findings reveal that industry-specific regulations, organizational size and professional experience significantly affect COs’ effectiveness. Furthermore, the mediating role of AI-based tools and the moderating influence of technology adoption amplify these relationships. These results offer substantial contributions to theoretical knowledge and practical applications, providing valuable insights for organizations and policymakers aiming to enhance compliance efforts. Despite recognizing certain limitations, this study lays the groundwork for a deeper comprehension of COs’ roles in the contemporary regulatory landscape. Findings The findings reveal that industry-specific regulations, organizational size and professional experience significantly affect COs’ effectiveness. Furthermore, the mediating role of AI-based tools and the moderating influence of technology adoption amplify these relationships. Originality/value Directing compliance realities, policy implications, compliance strategies, Cypriot organizations.