Rolf Howard is a Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) and Managing Partner of Owen Hodge Lawyers. With more than 35 years of legal and business leadership, he advises firms, boards, and business owners on building compliance frameworks that satisfy AUSTRAC standards and support long-term growth. As an experienced AML compliance specialist, he provides practical solutions that balance regulatory obligations with commercial outcomes.
Rolf’s career spans commercial litigation, dispute resolution, insurance, asset protection, business succession, and corporate governance. He has managed complex, high-profile cases and advised at board level across a wide range of industries. Beyond the courtroom, his focus has been on guiding organisations through strategic planning, governance frameworks, and risk management—always with an eye on long-term stability and performance.
Rolf has served on advisory boards, bringing a governance-first approach to leadership. He is recognised for helping professional service firms, SMEs, and private enterprises embed risk-based thinking, strengthen decision-making, and align compliance with broader business strategy. His practical, solutions-oriented style resonates with founders, directors, and leadership teams who value clarity and accountability.
Specialising in AML/CTF compliance and governance, Rolf works with business owners and boards to design systems that meet AUSTRAC standards while supporting growth. He champions the integration of compliance technology, streamlined recordkeeping, and cultural programs that reinforce accountability and integrity.
Education & Affiliations
- Bachelor of Economics, University of Sydney
- Bachelor of Laws, University of Sydney
- Graduate Diploma in Management, AGSM (UNSW)
- Master of Financial Planning, University of the Sunshine Coast
- Admitted to the Supreme Court of NSW (1986)
- Member, The Law Society of NSW
- Director Institute – Next Generation Directors Australia
Areas of Expertise
Strategic Leadership
Compliance & Governance
Compliance & Governance
Rolf works with firms to shape long-term strategy, improve performance, and build operational efficiency. As an experienced Anti-Money Laundering Specialist and AML compliance specialist, he brings deep expertise in business planning, leadership development, and succession strategies—helping organisations achieve sustainable growth and smooth transitions.
Compliance & Governance
Compliance & Governance
Compliance & Governance
As a Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS), Rolf designs compliance frameworks that meet AUSTRAC requirements while aligning with broader business goals. Recognised as an AML compliance specialist, he helps boards strengthen governance, manage risk effectively, and embed accountability across the organisation.
ADVISORY & COACHING
Compliance & Governance
Litigation Leadership
Rolf serves as a trusted advisor to boards, founders, and senior leadership teams. As an experienced Anti-Money Laundering Specialist and recognised AML compliance specialist, his coaching and advisory work guides organisations through compliance transformation, cultural leadership, and strategic decision-making that delivers clarity, accountability, and long-term results.
Litigation Leadership
Compliance & Governance
Litigation Leadership
As Managing Partner, Rolf oversees the firm’s litigation practice, delivering strategic and commercially focused representation. He has guided teams through complex commercial and insurance disputes, providing direction on high-profile matters while balancing strong advocacy with practical solutions.