EP3 - Fintech's Risk Frontier: A Conversation with Divya Eapen, Chief Risk Officer

"The most important thing about this world that we move into is to be open-minded, think outside the box, and be flexible and agile." Anna Rosenberg In this episode of RiskMasters, host Julien Haye engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Anna Rosenberg, the Head of Geopolitics at Amundi Asset Management. Anna shares her extensive journey, from her early days studying history to becoming a prominent figure in geopolitical risk analysis. She provides valuable insights into the intersection of personal resilience, gender dynamics, and strategic risk management in today's complex world. In this edition of RiskMasters, you will learn: Resilience and Career Growth: Anna recounts how entering the job market during the financial crisis shaped her career. She emphasises the importance of persistence, analytical thinking, and seizing opportunities amidst uncertainty. Gender and Leadership: Anna reflects on the impact of gender on her career, discussing both the challenges and the empowering aspects of being a woman in a senior role. She highlights how motherhood has equipped her with unique strengths and resilience. Strategic Geopolitical Risk Management: Anna explains the crucial role of structured analysis in managing geopolitical risks. She advocates for a proactive approach, outlining the need for organisations to develop comprehensive frameworks and stay informed on global developments. More about Anna Rosenberg: Anna Rosenberg is the Head of Geopolitics at Amundi Asset Management, one of Europe’s largest asset managers. Anna, with a history background and extensive experience in political risk analysis, helps investors navigate and predict political risk through research, data, and strategy. Her analytical approach and commitment to continuous learning define her leadership style. For more insights from Anna, connect with her on LinkedIn, where she welcomes discussions on geopolitical risks and strategic analysis. Tune in to this episode for a comprehensive understanding of resilience, leadership, and the strategic management of geopolitical risks in today’s dynamic environment. Find out more about Anna Rosenberg LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-rosenberg-39320612/ ​Discover connected risk management and oversight topics: 1/. 2024 Risk Management Mega-Trends 2/. Necessary vs Unnecessary Risks 3/. How to Identify and Manage Emerging Risks?

“Risk doesn't belong to the risk department; it belongs to everybody. And the management of risk can only happen if people are aware that it is a key ingredient into every recipe.” – Katie Smith   In this episode of RiskMasters, host Julien Haye engages in an enlightening conversation with Katie Smith, a seasoned legal and compliance leader with extensive experience in asset management. Katie shares her remarkable journey, from her early career beginnings to overcoming a major health crisis, and her perspectives on inclusive leadership and strategic risk management. In this edition of RiskMasters, you will learn: ·       Resilience and Growth through Adversity: Katie discusses how a life-threatening heart attack profoundly changed her outlook on life and work. She emphasises the importance of resilience, patience, and relying on others during challenging times. ·       Authentic Leadership and Diversity: Katie reflects on her experiences as a woman in senior roles, highlighting the importance of leading with kindness, creating space for diverse voices, and encouraging inclusivity in the workplace. ·       Strategic Importance of Risk Management: Katie explains how integrating risk management into all aspects of business is crucial. She advocates for continuous dialogue about risk and views it as a strategic enabler for organisational success. More about Katie Smith: Katie Smith is the General Counsel at Buffer and Asset Manager. With a career spanning roles at Vanguard and Deutsche Bank and beginning at Clifford Chance, Katie has extensive experience in the financial services industry. She is passionate about helping others, leading with curiosity, and fostering a culture of inclusivity and strategic risk management. Her personal experiences and dedication to creating supportive and innovative business environments inform Katie's approach to leadership and risk. For more insights from Katie, connect with her on LinkedIn, where she welcomes conversations over coffee to discuss her journey and insights further. Tune in to this episode for an inspiring look at resilience, leadership, and the strategic role of risk management in today’s business landscape. Find out more about Katie Smith LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-smith-93a67412/ ​Discover connected risk management and oversight topics: 1/. 2024 Risk Management Mega-Trends 2/. Necessary vs Unnecessary Risks 3/. Going Digital: A Paradigm Shift in Risk Management

“Established boards understand risk governance but want simpler updates, while start-ups need education on the value of risk management” – Kathy Griffin In this episode of RiskMasters, join host Julien Haye as he converses with Kathy Griffin, an experienced Chief Risk Officer and compliance leader with a diverse background that spans traditional financial institutions and innovative start-ups. Kathy shares her unique journey into the world of risk, the lessons learned from navigating both start-ups and established companies, and her approach to leading with empathy and innovation in risk management. In this episode of RiskMasters, you will discover:  Leadership Challenges and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome - She candidly reflects on her early management failures due to imposter syndrome and immaturity, and how stepping back into team roles was pivotal for rebuilding her confidence and eventually taking on leadership roles again. Communication with Boards: Established Companies vs. Start-ups - She contrasts her experiences with boards in established companies, which understand risk governance but prefer simplified updates, against start-ups that often require education on the value of risk management. The Risk Function as an Innovation Enabler - Kathy advocates for risk teams to collaborate closely with business units from the initial idea stages, emphasising the shift towards outcomes-based regulation and the importance of building customer-focused cultures. More about Kathy Griffin: Kathy has worked in financial services for nearly 30 years, the last 18 of which have been in risk and compliance. She’s currently the Chief Risk and Compliance Officer at Uber (Payments UK) and was previously the Director of Compliance at Monzo.  Kathy is passionate about risk and compliance being an enabler for innovation and growth and believes that embracing diversity and inclusion is key to the success of any business. Find out more about Kathy Griffin ​LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathy-griffin-b3a69512/ Please Enjoy! Don't miss out on future episodes! Hit that subscribe button on your favourite podcasting platform, and stay tuned for fascinating discussions on risk management – ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Google Podcasts⁠⁠⁠, or follow on my website ⁠⁠⁠www.aevitium.com⁠  

Welcome to another insightful episode of RiskMasters, where we delve into the world of risk management with leading experts in the field. In this episode, I have the pleasure of hosting Michele Wucker, a renowned strategic advisor, global economic policy expert, and author of the critically acclaimed book THE GRAY RHINO. Michele brings her wealth of knowledge and experience to discuss the fascinating world of risk management, decision-making, and the concept of the Gray Rhino. In this episode of RiskMasters, you will discover:  Michele Wucker's professional evolution from media executive to becoming a global economic policy expert and the founder of Gray Rhino and Company. The concept and significance of the "Gray Rhino" in risk management, and how Michele's diverse cultural experiences have shaped her approach to understanding and addressing global risks. Her insights into the future of risk management, particularly the role of psychological safety in organisations and the importance of self-awareness for emerging risk leaders. More about Michele Wucker:  Michele Wucker is the founder of the Chicago-based advisory firm Gray Rhino and Company and the author of THE GRAY RHINO and its sequel, YOU ARE WHAT YOU RISK. Her work focuses on strategic advisory and global economic policies.  A former media and think tank executive drawing on decades of experience in global finance and economics, she works at the nexus of policy, behavioural science, and business strategy. Her approach is unique in that it integrates these diverse areas to provide comprehensive insights into risk management and decision-making. Outside her professional life, Michele enjoys walking her dog along Lake Michigan, cooking, and engaging in creative and systems thinking activities. Her personal interests and experiences play a significant role in her approach to understanding and communicating complex risk management concepts. Find out more about Michele Wucker ​LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wucker/ Website: thegrayrhino.com ​ Please Enjoy! Don't miss out on future episodes! Hit that subscribe button on your favourite podcasting platform, and stay tuned for fascinating discussions on risk management – ⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Google Podcasts⁠⁠, or follow on my website ⁠⁠www.aevitium.com⁠

“A lot of people think that we can put risk in a box and assign it to the risk committee, and then it's done with. Then the risk committee does a bunch of magic, and then, suddenly, risk is managed. The truth is, clearly, that's not how it works. Risk is part and parcel of return.” – Terri Duhon Tune in for a captivating discussion on the world of risk management and board dynamics with the fantastic Terri Duhon in the premiere episode of RiskMasters Podcast!  In this episode, you will discover:  Her career path and the choices she had to make How to get on the board and board dynamics The view from the board when it comes to risk management, corporate culture and psychological safety About Terri: Terri played a pivotal role in the global development of the credit derivative market. Her expertise and contributions have garnered attention from notable media outlets, including the books “Fool's Gold” and “PBS's Frontline”.  She is award-winning educator and TEDx speaker, and author of the acclaimed book How the Trading Floor Really Works.  She currently serves on 4 boards including as Non-Executive Chair of Morgan Stanley Investment Management Ltd and non-executive director on the board of Wise the payment company.  Terri's influence extends further as she is also the Ambassador for Women on Board, an Associate Fellow at The Said Business School; a motivational speaker for Speakers for Schools. Book: How the Trading Floor Really Works? Contact Information: Website: https://www.terriduhon.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terriduhon/ Please Enjoy! Don't miss out on future episodes! Hit that subscribe button on your favourite podcasting platform, and stay tuned for fascinating discussions on risk management – Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, Google Podcasts, or follow on my website www.aevitium.com

Join us in this meaningful conversation with Britta, a remarkable market risk leader. Her insights shed light on the evolving landscape of risk management, emphasising the potential of automation and digitalisation in market risk management and trading activities. As we learn from Britta, the future of risk management lies in proactive strategy rather than mere compliance. In this episode, you will discover:  Britta's unconventional career path Her insights into risk management in both big players like Bank of America and smaller institutions like FlowTraders. The game-changing impact of market digitalisation, automation, and the rise of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. Now more about Britta: Britta has had a dynamic career in finance, commencing at JPMorgan in New York in structuring and trading diverse derivative products.  Following her move to London, Britta spent a decade at RBS and Deutsche Bank, spearheading regulatory initiatives in response to 2008 crisis.  Before joining Bank of America as Co-Head of Market Risk, Britta served as Chief Risk Officer at Flow Traders. Her role spanned Risk, Compliance, Operations, and Legal departments. In her personal life Britta is the proud mum of twin girls and in her spare time, she delves into personal development and leadership literature, and is a devoted hot yoga practitioner.  Contact Information: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittaachmann/ Please Enjoy! Don't miss out on future episodes! Hit that subscribe button on your favourite podcasting platform, and stay tuned for fascinating discussions on risk management – ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠, ⁠Spotify⁠, ⁠Amazon⁠, ⁠Google Podcasts⁠, or follow on my website ⁠www.aevitium.com⁠

Tune in for an immersive discussion with Divya Eapen, a seasoned risk management consultant, and Chief Risk Officer, sharing her invaluable journey in the ever-evolving world of Fintech. With experience spanning from global institutions like Citibank to innovative financial technology, Divya offers unique perspectives on risk management in this rapidly changing landscape.  In this episode, you will discover:  Divya’s career in risk management, and how to bounce back from failure Her insights into working with Fintechs and payment companies How Artificial Intelligence and machine learning are reshaping risk and compliance strategies in the Fintech space and payment industry Now more about Divya:  Divya is a commercial and experienced credit led Chief Risk Officer (SMF4 equivalent) across the consumer and wholesale space. She has recently set up a risk consultancy focused on two segments: Provision of risk management advisory largely to fintechs and regtechs, especially around projects involving risk culture, governance, framework and appetites  Advisory to SMEs and MMEs on optimising debt finance to support growth or turnaround, and connecting them with sources of these funding options She is passionate about inspiring teams with a shared purpose to build and transform businesses in a positive and sustainable manner.  She embraces the usage of technology and data to enable smarter and faster decision making.  And finally, Divya has strong sense of fairness, and dedicated to make improving diversity and inclusion. Outside of work, Divya has two young boys that keep her very active, and as a result is learning to play tennis and piano with them.  She has a keen interest in wine, and has studied it to a high level. Contact Divya: LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/divya-eapen/ Website: https://www.riskstrategyconsulting.com Please Enjoy! Don't miss out on future episodes! Hit that subscribe button on your favourite podcasting platform, and stay tuned for fascinating discussions on risk management – ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠, ⁠Spotify⁠, ⁠Amazon⁠, ⁠Google Podcasts⁠, or follow on my website ⁠www.aevitium.com⁠

In this inaugural episode of the RiskMasters podcast, host Julien Haye, a seasoned risk expert, invites you on a journey of mastery in risk leadership. As Warren Buffett once wisely said, 'Risk comes from not knowing what you're doing,' and today, we're here to ensure you're well-equipped with the knowledge you need. Julien introduces the podcast's mission: to provide a platform for meaningful conversations that unravel the complexities of risk management. Whether you're a business executive, a seasoned risk practitioner, or just stepping into the world of risk, this podcast is your gateway to informed decision-making and impactful leadership. In the first episode airing in October, Julien sits down with Terri Duhon. We'll dive into her career, exploring her invaluable experiences serving on the boards of financial institutions like Rathbone and Wise. The following interview will take place with Britta Achmann, a leading market risk expert where will discuss the impact of AI and ML on market risk management and trading activities.  Whether you're a seasoned risk practitioner, a business leader, or someone eager to enhance their understanding of risk management, this podcast is tailored for you. Julien encourages a two-way conversation, welcoming your feedback, questions, and comments through the feedback page or by email. Visit Julien's website, www.aevitium.com, for more information, including transcripts and episode notes, along with a wealth of thought leadership articles on risk management. Thank you for becoming a part of the RiskMasters community.  Don't miss out on future episodes! Hit that subscribe button on your favourite podcasting platform, and stay tuned for fascinating discussions on risk management – Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, Google Podcasts