Mike Finlay is a distinguished Chief Executive with over 35 years of expertise in banking and finance, specializing in risk management. Based in London, UK, Mike has built an impressive career, beginning with pricing equity derivatives on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange and evolving into a global leader in operational risk.

Since joining RiskBusiness in March 2003, Mike has played a pivotal role in the firm’s growth and success. As Chief Executive, he has overseen the development and implementation of sophisticated risk management frameworks across international banking institutions and large corporations. His work includes designing the initial risk management framework for the Bond Market Exchange of South Africa and integrating risk management activities across major mining and industrial conglomerates. Mike has also made significant contributions to the insurance sector by developing methodologies to support Solvency II requirements.

In addition to his executive role, Mike is the Publisher of The Risk Universe, a highly regarded e-magazine that addresses operational, strategic, business, and environmental risk issues. His editorial work ensures that the publication remains at the forefront of industry developments, providing valuable insights to practitioners and regulators alike.

Mike’s expertise extends beyond risk management to include global regulatory frameworks, governance, and control environments. He has authored numerous articles and white papers on these subjects and has co-authored three influential books on operational, non-financial, and reputational risk management. His extensive speaking engagements have included lectures at prestigious institutions such as Judge Business School, Cambridge University, and the University of South Africa, as well as keynote addresses at industry conferences worldwide.

Mike’s international exposure is vast, with experience working in the UK, US, Australia, South Africa, Netherlands, Greece, and Germany. He is multilingual, fluent in English, Afrikaans, Dutch, and has limited proficiency in German and Xhosa.

Throughout his career, Mike has demonstrated a commitment to giving back, leveraging his extensive knowledge to mentor and advise others. His personal passions include scuba diving and wildlife conservation, reflecting his deep commitment to environmental causes.

Mike holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of the Witwatersrand and an MBA from Henley Management School/Brunel University. He is a Fellow of the South African Institute of Bankers and the Institute of Operational Risk, among other professional affiliations. Recognized as one of the “Top 50 Faces of Operational Risk” by OpRisk & Compliance magazine, Mike has also earned accolades for his contributions to the field, including being named one of the world’s 20 most promising ERM solutions by CIO Review in 2015.

Mike Finlay’s career is a testament to his profound expertise in risk management and his dedication to advancing the field through thought leadership, innovative frameworks, and global engagement.

Character: Mike Finlay is renowned for his integrity and dedication to advancing risk management practices globally. His career reflects a commitment to ethical leadership and a drive to mentor others by sharing his extensive knowledge and experience.

Knowledge: With over 35 years in banking and finance, Mike possesses deep expertise in operational and financial risk management, regulatory compliance, and corporate governance. His extensive work across diverse sectors and international environments underscores his broad and profound understanding of risk.

Strategic: Mike’s strategic acumen is evident in his successful development of risk management frameworks and his leadership in major risk and control projects. He excels in devising innovative solutions and guiding organizations through complex regulatory and operational challenges.

Communication: As a frequent speaker and lecturer, Mike effectively conveys complex risk concepts to diverse audiences, including industry professionals and academic institutions. His ability to articulate and disseminate knowledge is enhanced by his publications and contributions to prominent risk management discussions.