Students benefit from expert in risk and people management
Students gained valuable insight into managing risk in global financial services from Citi's Global Head of Governance and Oversight, Abisola Sherwood.
Leeds University Business School welcomed Abisola Sherwood, Global Head of Governance and Oversight at Citi, as part of the International Executive Speaker Series, for an insightful discussion on what managing risk means for emerging graduates.
Interviewed by Rebecca Padgett, Associate Professor at Leeds University Business School, Abisola shared her career journey from politics and compliance into global financial services, and what it truly means to manage risk beyond textbook theory.
Operating across more than 90 countries, Abisola’s role focuses not only on protecting financial institutions but also on safeguarding wider society. She is a multi-award-winning industry leader and one of the youngest ever Directors in the financial services sector. She explained that partnership lies at the heart of effective leadership, particularly when making high-stakes decisions under uncertain conditions.
Reflecting on her approach to decision-making, Abisola outlined three principles she uses to mitigate risk:
- Recognising when information is imperfect
- Making decisions collaboratively
- Remaining open to strategic drift when new insights emerge.
Students were invited to join the conversation during a lively Q&A session, posing questions on differentiating themselves early in their careers, maintaining work-life balance in high-pressure roles, and the risks associated with the growing popularity of ‘buy now, pay later’ consumer finance models.
In response, Abisola encouraged students to embrace individuality and authenticity, and to proactively articulate both their academic and non-academic achievements. She spoke openly about how she remains grounded, journaling through voice notes, pursuing personal projects, and continuously investing in self-improvement.
Particularly inspiring for students was Abisola’s reflection on often being underestimated. Rather than conforming, she brings new perspectives and practices into the spaces she occupies. When challenged, she responds with authenticity and kindness, driven by proving people wrong. She emphasised the importance of remembering that behind every institution and computer screen are real people.
Rebecca Padget commented:
For young professionals, learning from the experience of trailblazers like Abisola is paramount. Abisola’s insight and expertise really resonated with students. We’re delighted to continue to host such strong voices in the industry to prepare our students for their journey in their future careers. We are very grateful to her for giving her time so generously.
The session reinforced the purpose of the International Executive Speaker Series: connecting students with senior global leaders who provide practical insight into the realities of modern business and leadership.
The International Executive Speaker Series gives all Business School students the chance to learn directly from senior executives who work at the highest and most strategic levels in business. The event also allows students to network with peers and the industry.
Find out more about the International Executive Speaker Series.
