Saunders named chair of IRM Operational Risk Group

Paul Saunders, founding owner and managing director of GDFM Consulting has been appointed as the new Chair of the IRM’s Operational Risk Group, taking over from Tony Chidwick. 

Saunders has implemented global business control frameworks to meet regulatory requirements from within a firm and as a consultant.

In past roles he has developed operational risk and compliance functions in all aspects and has functioned as a deputy Money Laundering Reporting Officer. He has also been subject to the FSA’s approved persons regime. 

The IRM’s Operational Risk Group (which has been brought over from the Institute of Operational Risk) provides a forum for risk managers to exchange views and experiences on operational risk management, methods, and development, to share best practice, and to learn from and network with people interested in operational risk. 

Saunders commented: “I am delighted to be taking up this role at a time where risk management has become ever more important to businesses globally.  

“We will be using the Group as voice for operational risk managers and to professionalise and raise the profile of the discipline across all sectors. 

“The profession is changing fast, with greater demands on our skills and insights. Covid brought sharply into focus the need for risk management in all parts of the economy and subsequent impacts such as supply chain challenges, geopolitical tensions and the cost-of-living crisis only add to the need for greater skills in managing the risks we face.  

”The new strategy being rolled out will enable us all to better benefit from the collective wisdom of our community through thought leadership and greater connectivity across the membership and wider risk management community.” 

The IRM has a diverse range of risk management community groups covering all regions/sectors from the Armed Forces to Zimbabwe.