J.D. Cronin is a seasoned risk management and governance expert with over 36 years of experience in the financial services industry, specializing in multi-asset risk management, capital markets, regulatory compliance, and investment strategy. Throughout his career, he has held pivotal roles at top financial institutions, hedge funds, investment management firms, and regulatory organizations, consistently delivering high-impact solutions that prioritize both compliance and growth. His impressive track record in managing complex portfolios, developing risk frameworks, and leading high-performing teams has earned him a reputation as a trusted leader and advisor. J.D. is known for his strategic vision, technical acumen, and hands-on approach to transforming risk management practices into value-driven processes.

J.D. currently serves as a Partner at Palomar Advisors, where he brings his extensive expertise to assist organizations in optimizing their business performance. Leveraging his broad industry knowledge, he poses insightful questions that lead to actionable recommendations and strategies that enhance risk management and compliance across diverse industries. His advisory work reflects his commitment to helping companies transition smoothly through growth phases while mitigating potential risks.

In his previous role as Senior Advisor in Enterprise Risk Management at BMO Financial Group, J.D. developed and maintained the Enterprise Risk Appetite Framework for the multinational institution. He worked closely with executive management and board members to align the institution’s risk-taking with its strategic objectives. His innovative contributions included refining quantitative key risk metrics that provided actionable insights, enhancing BMO’s approach to credit, technology, and operational risks.

At William Blair Investment Management, J.D. served as Head of Investment Risk Management, where he led the risk management strategy for a $65 billion AUM investment firm. In this newly created role, he developed a Python-based framework for real-time risk monitoring, a first for the firm. His role also encompassed compliance with the SEC Liquidity Risk Management Rule 22e(4), collaborating with third-party vendors and firm leadership to ensure consistent regulatory standards.

J.D. was also a key figure at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, where he served as the Risk Management Knowledge Leader within the Financial Markets Utility (FMU) Regulatory Strategy Group. He provided expertise on regulatory policies including Dodd-Frank, BIS Capital Rules, and CPSS-IOSCO principles, particularly in relation to central counterparty clearinghouses. His tenure at the Fed demonstrated his ability to navigate complex regulatory landscapes and offer insights that strengthened the organization’s compliance efforts.

Adept in both the buy- and sell-side of finance, J.D. has held roles across a range of esteemed firms, including founding his own statistical arbitrage trading firm, StarGroves Trading LLC. There, he developed algorithmic trading models that applied sophisticated statistical techniques, coding the entire risk management system from the ground up. This venture underscored his entrepreneurial spirit and deep technical skills in building systems that manage portfolio risk dynamically.

J.D. held the position of Managing Director at Bank One, where he managed a $100 million division and delivered a consistent 22% return on equity annually. Over his 16-year tenure, he demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic foresight, directing 35 professionals across various business lines. His ability to create, implement, and manage strategic plans that drove high returns highlights his commitment to operational excellence and innovation.

Educationally, J.D. earned his MBA in Finance and Econometrics from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, where he was an active member of the Chicago Approach to Portfolio Management (CAPM) team. He also holds an AB in Economics from the University of Michigan, graduating magna cum laude. Further solidifying his expertise, J.D. earned the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) designation, reflecting his commitment to continual learning and specialization in alternative investments.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, J.D. is an active mentor in the University of Michigan’s Literature, Science & Arts mentoring program and serves on the Budget and Economic Development Councils in his town of Hideout, Utah. His community involvement demonstrates his dedication to empowering future generations and contributing to local economic empowerment initiatives.

Character:

J.D. Cronin is dedicated to integrity, responsibility, and a results-driven mindset, consistently prioritizing ethical decision-making and accountability in all his roles. His resilience and hands-on approach make him a trusted leader who inspires confidence among colleagues and clients alike.

Knowledge:

With extensive experience in financial markets, risk management, and regulatory compliance, J.D. combines deep industry knowledge with technical skills in programming, quantitative analysis, and portfolio management. His expertise spans complex financial products and regulatory frameworks, ensuring thorough and informed risk management practices.

Strategic:

J.D. is a strategic thinker, aligning risk management with organizational goals through innovative frameworks and systems that support sustainable growth. His ability to design and implement high-impact initiatives drives long-term value and adapts to evolving market challenges.

Communication:

Known for his clear and concise communication style, J.D. excels in breaking down complex information into actionable insights. His collaborative approach fosters strong partnerships, unifying diverse teams and stakeholders around shared objectives.