Anjola Odunaike, a seasoned financial risk expert with extensive experience across
North American and African financial systems has been recognized with a 2024 Global
Recognition Award for his exceptional contributions to the financial risk management
industry. His work is distinguished by its impact on regulatory compliance, risk
frameworks, and the efficiency of risk models in prominent financial institutions.
Odunaike’s most notable accomplishments are developing and implementing credit risk
models as a consultant for one of the leading financial institutions in the US and building
enterprise risk frameworks for a top Nigerian bank. These models, including Probability
of Default (PD), Loss Given Default (LGD), and Exposure at Default (EAD), were crucial
in significantly reducing the bank’s regulatory risk exposure. His expertise ensured
these models met strict U.S. regulatory standards, strengthening the bank’s overall risk
management. Odunaike’s active leadership in executing key regulatory stress tests
such as Comprehensive Capital Analysis and Review, Dodd-Frank Act Stress Test,
Current Expected Credit Loss and International Financial Reporting Standard 9 further
highlights his strategic insight and technical expertise, as well as his capability to align
complex regulatory requirements with effective risk management solutions.

Odunaike’s work stands out for his focus on improving operational efficiency in the
financial sector. One of his major contributions involved optimizing credit risk models,
resulting in a 20 percent reduction in run time for retail and non-retail credit models. This
enhancement streamlined processes and enabled more timely and frequent risk
assessments, a critical aspect in today’s competitive financial environment. His deep
technical knowledge and innovative methods have enhanced operational efficiency
while ensuring FRG’s risk management solutions remain resilient and responsive to
market shifts. Odunaike’s ability to effectively combine technical precision with real-
world application is a hallmark of his professional excellence.

Milestones in Financial Risk Management

Odunaike’s career is marked by notable achievements demonstrating his extensive
knowledge of financial risk management across different regions and sectors. Beyond
his work as a consultant to big banks at FRG, he played a significant role at Polaris
Bank Limited, where he developed a comprehensive risk management framework
across more than 250 branches. This framework ensured that the bank’s risk appetite
was well-aligned with its strategic goals, allowing for consistent and robust risk
management practices. His experience at Polaris is significant, given the scale and
complexity of managing risks across such a broad network. The framework he
developed was key to standardizing risk management practices and reducing credit and
operational risks throughout the bank’s extensive operations.

Odunaike’s ability to customize risk management frameworks to fit different industries
and regulatory landscapes showcases his versatility. This diverse industry exposure has
enabled him to apply fresh perspectives and proven methods to financial risk
management, establishing him as a respected thought leader.
Odunaike’s international experience, which covers both North American and African financial systems, gives him a comprehensive understanding of diverse regulatory environments, further affirming his leadership in financial risk management.

Recognized Expertise and Thought Leadership

Odunaike’s recognition as a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants (IMC)
Nigeria highlights his leadership and expertise in financial risk management. This
prestigious designation is a testament to his ability to provide strategic guidance and
implement effective risk management solutions that meet business needs. His
recognition by IMC illustrates the respect he commands within the consulting and
financial risk management communities. Odunaike has earned multiple certifications
from the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP), further validating his
expertise. His certifications in Financial Risk & Regulation and Foundations of Financial
Risk reflects his deep understanding of key risk management principles and regulatory
frameworks.

Beyond certifications, Odunaike’s influence extends to academic and industry
discussions. His published works, including financial risk and stress testing articles,
demonstrate his commitment to advancing the field and sharing knowledge with a
broader audience. His research on time series forecasting and market price indexes
adds depth to his position as a thought leader. His active membership in professional
bodies such as GARP, The American Finance Association, and The Association of
Accounting Bodies in West Africa reinforces his prominent financial risk management
community role. Odunaike’s blend of technical expertise, cross-cultural experience, and
commitment to thought leadership positions him as a leading figure in financial risk
management.

Final Words

Odunaike’s receipt of 2024’s Global Recognition Award highlights his sustained
excellence and significant contributions to financial risk management. His ability to
develop and implement complex risk models, enhance operational efficiency, and align
regulatory frameworks with practical business solutions has impacted the organizations
he has supported. His technical skills, global perspective, and innovative mindset set
him apart from his peers. Odunaike’s leadership in the financial risk sector and his
dedication to advancing the field through research and thought leadership exemplify the
qualities that define a Global Recognition Award winner.