From detective to risk manager: leadership in raising the bar of risk management towards greater resilience of the financial ecosystem

This thesis examines the personal and professional journey of the researcher as a leader in risk management, focusing on strengthening the resilience of the financial sector against modern (cyber) threats. Central to this work is the development of innovative strategies to address key challenges, particularly in the areas of cybercrime and financial crime prevention.

Through extensive consultation, collaboration, and research, the thesis explores how these strategies contribute to safeguarding the financial ecosystem. While initially intended for implementation within the banking sector, the principles and approaches developed have broader relevance, affecting both business and private life at a global scale.

The thesis also delves into leadership dynamics, investigating how risk management can be effectively integrated into organizational frameworks. It reflects on key leadership challenges, such as maintaining a balance between trust and mistrust in decision-making processes. The critical role of leadership in fostering a resilient risk culture is explored, with an emphasis on handling situations where trust may be compromised, yet systems must continue to function effectively.