Blazing the Trail During Heightened Uncertainty
GRI convened risk leaders from across the financial sector to exchange insights on today’s most pressing threats—from macroeconomic instability and geopolitical fragmentation to cybercrime and governance challenges. This event offered thought-provoking presentations, valuable networking opportunities and tangible strategies for senior executives and risk professionals to apply within their organizations.
Macroeconomic and Geopolitical Insights
Speakers highlighted the need for adaptive strategies as Canadian institutions navigate inflation volatility, trade disruption, and the evolving role of the U.S. dollar. Action items included stress-testing portfolios, adjusting for tail risks, and preparing for a long-term structural shift in global power dynamics. Organizations were urged to diversify geographically, reframe investment models, and align with jurisdictions prioritizing national security.
Optimizing Risk Roles Across the Organization
Reimagining the three lines of defence was a central theme, with emphasis on collaboration, agility, and diverse perspectives. Risk professionals were encouraged to:
- Improve coordination between the lines of defence
- Use agile “SWAT” teams for fast-moving risks
- Reinforce “tone at the top” to build trust
- Integrate feedback loops with board and audit functions
Navigating the Rise of Financial Crime
With threats ranging from AI-enabled fraud to data localization roadblocks, actionable insights included:
- Creating unified security teams across cybersecurity, privacy, and fraud
- Strengthening incident response registers and KYC practices
- Investing in AI and cryptocurrency training
- Improving communication between FIs and law enforcement
- Updating internal policies to meet new AMF requirements
What GRI Members Said:
“Lots of pertinent and up-to-date information. The guests were all experts in their fields.”
“Excellent event. Subjects were very pertinent and timely. I am leaving with good information and a lot to think about.”
“Good opportunity to meet colleagues from different financial institutions; It is good to highlight the role of women in risk management in the financial services sector.”
Program Highlights
Opening Remarks
- Vanda Vicars, Executive Consultant, Global Risk Institute
Welcome Remarks
- David Latour, Chief Risk Officer, CDPQ
Macroeconomic and Geopolitical Insights in a Shifting Global Landscape
- Timothy Lane, Former Deputy Governor, Bank of Canada
- Kari Pries, Senior Manager, Geopolitical Risk, PSP Investments
- Marie Gruttadauria, Senior Advisor, Geopolitical Analysis, CDPQ
Optimizing Risk Management Roles and Relationships Across the Organization
- Chiara Borrelli, Global Senior Financial Services Executive, CGB Risk & Governance Advisory
- Alba-Justina Secrist, Head, Risk Governance and Strategic Risk, BMO
- Marylène Roy, Chief Audit Executive, CDPQ
Navigating the Rise of Financial Crime
- Marie-Andrée Alain, Vice-President and Chief Compliance and Privacy Officer, Risk Management, Desjardins Group
- Ndèye Astou Ndao, Vice President of Cyber, Technology and Data Risk Management, National Bank
- Véronique Martel, Supervision – Governance and Management Practices Director, AMF
- Inspector Nancy Roberge, Officer in Charge of Money Laundering Investigative Team (MLIT), RCMP