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- Julien Haye
Coding the Future: Digitalisation and AI in Risk Management and Trading with Britta Achmann
In the second episode of RiskMasters, I had the privilege of sitting down with Britta Achmann, a seasoned Market Risk expert. Her journey from actuarial consultant to investment banking offers a unique perspective on the financial industry's evolution. Here are some key takeaways from this insightful conversation.
Britta's career trajectory was marked by a willingness to adapt. Realising that the traditional path of an actuarial consultant wasn't for her, she pursued an MBA to open doors to new opportunities. Landing in investment banking at J.P. Morgan, she found herself in a dynamic and creative environment.
The financial crisis of 2008 led to a pivotal shift for Britta. She transitioned from structured products to risk management, discovering a passion for ensuring that risks are properly assessed and managed. This journey has shaped her role as a defender against unwarranted risk transfer.
Britta's commitment to her career doesn't overshadow her role as a mother of twin daughters. She emphasises the importance of using mornings effectively, whether for a hot yoga class or networking events. Her ability to balance personal and professional responsibilities is a testament to her strategic approach.
Britta candidly shares that her divorce was a turning point in her life. It propelled her to approach her career with a new focus on financial stability. This shift led her to take on roles that not only excited her but also provided the financial security she needed for her family.
Two books have left a profound impact on Britta's career: Managing with Power by Jeffrey Pfeffer and The Hundred Year Life by Linda Gratton. These titles have broadened her understanding of power dynamics in the workplace and provided crucial insights into planning for a longer, more dynamic career.
Britta highlights the unique opportunities women have in risk management, particularly in areas like stress testing and governance. She encourages women to embrace roles that may not initially seem attractive, as they have the potential to be transformed into valuable career paths.
Britta urges the industry to invest in risk management research and reimagine how risk is approached. She emphasizes the potential of technologies like AI to revolutionize risk management and calls for a more holistic, business-aligned approach to risk.
Britta Achmann's journey from actuarial consulting to risk management is a testament to the power of adaptability and strategic planning. Her insights shed light on the evolving landscape of risk management in a rapidly digitalising financial world. As the industry continues to transform, Britta's holistic approach to risk will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping its future.
Listen to the full episode
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/riskmasters/id1709495792?i=1000633667001
RadioRepublic: https://radiopublic.com/riskmasters-GboaZk/s1!23d86
Overcast: https://overcast.fm/+BEBk7att_0
Please Enjoy!
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The transcript of all the episodes can be found here: https://www.julienhaye.com/riskmasters-transcripts-shownotes