Yvonne Cheong's journey into risk management was driven by a mix of inspiration, curiosity, and motivation.
When the opportunity to be certified in the IBF Qualified in Risk Management, Operational Risk Management Analyst Role programme presented itself, she made the first big step on the path of continuous learning and professional growth.
For her, it wasn't just a mandatory checkbox to tick - it was a treasure trove of knowledge waiting to be unlocked.
As her career progressed to encompass managing emerging digital risks at OCBC Digital Business, Yvonne viewed the certification as an opportunity to deepen her expertise in the field. Her enthusiasm was further fuelled by OCBC's offering of an internal certification pathway, to support operational risk management practitioners with comprehensive competencies and proficiency levels in Operational Risk Management.
This certification is aligned with the IBF Skills Framework for Financial Services for Operational Risk Management roles.
Yvonne reflects, "The course equipped me with a much-needed compass. Navigating the intricate web of operational risks in the digital age became more manageable, complementing my existing role and helping me chart the course to help achieve our business objectives."
(Photo credit: Yvonne Cheong)
Keeping Pace with Change
In the digital business, adapting to a rapidly changing landscape wasn't just important; it was necessary.
Having launched numerous first-in-market digital products and services amidst intense market competition, Yvonne attests her acumen to the complementary new skills she's acquired through the rigorous IBF-certified programme; namely in the area of operational risk management; given the added focus for these skills in her role.
"The interactive nature of the course, both with the course conductor and peer learning group, has been invaluable," she notes.
She adds, "With great insights from global case studies, it has helped me connect the dots, navigate the evolving landscape, and manage risks more effectively. This ultimately safeguards our business goals and helps us stay ahead of the competition."
The Science and Art of It
Yvonne's journey of growth extends beyond her career. Setting a personal challenge to herself by learning to play a new musical instrument, she discovered parallels between the disciplines of music and risk management - they are both a science and an art.
Yvonne explains, "While quantitative analysis helps understand the numbers behind a risk, qualitative analysis is equally crucial especially when making tough business decisions."
Recognising this in the process of acquiring new knowledge and mastering a skillset, she encourages others to push our of their own comfort zones and constantly challenge themselves.
Not an easy feat, especially for someone with more than 25 years of experience in the business. Yvonne adds, "The programme has enabled me to see new perspectives in risk management."
Effective risk management, like music, requires a balance of both technical and artistic aspects to create harmony.
(Photo credit: Yvonne Cheong)
Ready for Unknowns
In a rapidly evolving digital landscape characterised by technological innovation and ever-changing regulatory requirements, Yvonne emphasises the importance of continuous learning and improvement. "We must keep pace with the shifting landscape through continuous learning," she asserts.
"Staying curious, asking questions, and upskilling ourselves are essential in preparing for the unknowns of tomorrow," Yvonne advises.
In the digital business, the only certainty is almost everything can and will be disrupted.
And for Yvonne, disruptions are a constant. Acquiring and applying new knowledge is her strategy of always striving to stay ahead of the curve.
She emphasises, "We have to stay curious, learn and grow. By being ever ready to learn the insights and skills that are available to us today, we'll always be ready."
Inspiring Others to Chart Their Own Paths
Yvonne stands as a testament to the power of continuous learning and embracing new challenges. With her diverse skill set and unwavering commitment, she serves as an inspiration to those looking to chart their own paths with IBF certification.
"It was challenging to balance a very intensive work schedule and completing the course reading and assignments on time, often through late nights and weekends," Yvonne reflects on the challenges she faced.
Having received commendations for her coursework and exemplary work ethic, she acknowledges her journey towards professional growth was fuelled by hard work and determination.
Her exemplary journey of professional and personal growth underscores the importance of lifelong learning, and serves as a beacon for others to follow.
(Photo credit: Yvonne Cheong)
"When I first embarked on this journey, I wanted to enhance my existing skills in risk management." she reflects. "The IBF-certified Risk Management programme hasn't just expanded my knowledge in my work. The concepts I've learned could be applied to other areas in my life."
IBF Certification is an industry endorsed mark of quality for finance professionals who have successfully completed eligible IBF-STS accredited assessment programme(s) and have attained the requited skills for the selected industry segment and function.
Find out more about IBF Certification .