3LoD Unlocked

Leveraging AI in Risk and Compliance with Manoj Kulwal

In this episode of 3LoD Unlocked, host Ghassan Zeidan sits down with Manoj Kulwal, Chief Risk and AI Officer at Risk Spotlight, to explore the impact, risks, and transformative opportunities of Generative AI in risk management and compliance. The conversation delves into the distinct differences between traditional AI and Generative AI, highlights pressing risks, and emphasizes practical AI use cases. Key Highlights & Timestamps: * 00:00 - Introduction to Episode 7 and Guest Manoj Kulwal * 03:12 - Manoj’s background and journey into AI and risk management * 07:45 - Differentiating between Traditional AI and Generative AI * 13:30 - The primary risks of Generative AI, including trust issues and data privacy * 21:10 - Benefits of using Microsoft Co-Pilot vs. other AI tools * 27:25 - Top 3 AI use cases in risk management: 1. Control Library Optimization (cleaning and refining controls) 2. Enhanced Risk Reporting (summarizing data efficiently) 3. Policy Management and Regulatory Compliance (automating updates and mappings) * 44:55 - Importance and role of Prompt Engineering * 52:30 - Risk Spotlight's innovative Copilot training for risk professionals * 58:40 - Closing thoughts and future insights Notable Quotes: > "Generative AI is completely changing risk management. Within the next three years, risk management will be entirely different because of these tools." > > "AI can significantly reduce the effort in risk reporting, allowing professionals to focus on high-value activities rather than tedious data summarization tasks."   Conclusion: In this insightful episode, Manoj Kulwal clearly illustrates the transformative potential of Generative AI in risk management and compliance. By addressing practical use cases, highlighting essential risks, and emphasizing proper training and prompt engineering, professionals across the three lines of defense are equipped to leverage AI effectively. Stay ahead by understanding and adopting these powerful tools in your GRC processes. Connect with Us 📌 Follow 3LoD Unlocked on LinkedIn 🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform 📧 For enquiries or to suggest topics, contact Ghassan Zeidan

Third Party Risk Management Essentials with Linda Tuck Chapman

In this insightful episode of 3LoD Unlocked, host Ghassan Zeidan sits down with Linda Tuck Chapman, CEO of the Third Party Risk Institute and a leading voice in third party risk management (TPRM). Linda brings decades of experience to the conversation, sharing essential strategies, common pitfalls, and actionable insights to help organizations manage their third party risks effectively. The discussion covers critical components of robust TPRM frameworks, practical approaches to vendor segmentation, the nuances of fourth-party risk management, and real-world scenarios demonstrating the importance of proactive risk management. Key Highlights & Timestamps: * [00:35] – Introduction to Linda Tuck Chapman, her background, and the importance of third-party risk management. * [02:05] – Defining third-party risk management and its increasing importance in the modern enterprise. * [05:30] – Clarifying the scope of third-party relationships beyond vendors. * [09:40] – The power of segmentation in managing third-party relationships and risks effectively. * [17:20] – Common challenges and critical mistakes organizations make in their third-party risk management programs. * [26:15] – Discussing the importance of clear risk reporting and practical KRIs (Key Risk Indicators). * [32:45] – Real-world examples of impactful risk incidents, highlighting lessons learned. * [40:05] – Deep dive into managing fourth-party risks, practical guidance, and best practices. * [45:25] – How to evaluate and enhance your organization's TPRM capabilities. * [48:00] – Where listeners can connect with Linda and explore further resources. Notable Quotes: * "Your company is actually the smallest part of the equation when considering your third-party relationships."  * "If everything is risky, nothing matters. Proper segmentation is key to effective third-party risk management."  * "We’re not risk police—we’re enablers of risk-informed decisions."  Conclusion: This conversation underscores the necessity for businesses to evolve their approach to third-party risk management from reactive to proactive. Effective TPRM not only safeguards an organization but also enhances its operational resilience and competitive advantage. Linda's insights emphasize clear segmentation, actionable reporting, and the strategic alignment of TPRM practices with broader enterprise risk management efforts. Listeners are encouraged to leverage these best practices to elevate their third-party risk management capabilities. Connect with Us 📌 Follow 3LoD Unlocked on LinkedIn 🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform 📧 For enquiries or to suggest topics, contact Ghassan Zeidan

Mastering Governance: The Board’s Role with Abdullah Al Ghamdi

Episode Summary: In this insightful episode of 3LoD Unlocked, I sit down with Abdullah Al Ghamdi, an expert in governance to discuss the critical role boards and other governance forums play in shaping effective governance frameworks. We explore key responsibilities, risk oversight, regulatory challenges, and best practices that every board member should know. Tune in to gain actionable insights on how boards can enhance culture, improve accountability and drive strategic initiatives. Timestamps: [02:15] - Understanding the Board’s Role in Governance [06:30] - Risk Oversight: What Boards Must Prioritize [12:45] - Compliance Challenges in Today’s Regulatory Landscape [18:20] - Best Practices for Board Members [24:50] - The Future of GRC and Digital Transformation Quotes to Remember: * "Governance isn’t just about policies—it’s about setting the right tone from the top."  * "Boards that integrate risk oversight into strategy are the ones that drive sustainable success."  * "Regulations will keep evolving, but a strong governance foundation ensures adaptability and resilience."  Connect with Us 📌 Follow 3LoD Unlocked on LinkedIn 🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform 📧 For enquiries or to suggest topics, contact Ghassan Zeidan

Internal Audit of Financial Crime and Building Careers with Kyle McMullen

In this episode of 3LoD Unlocked, Ghassan Zeidan welcomes Kyle McMullen, a seasoned audit expert with over 25 years of experience in internal audit, financial crime, and compliance. Kyle shares his journey from Deloitte to senior roles at Goldman Sachs and Citi, and discusses the evolution of third line functions in areas like financial crime and governance. He offers insights into the changing role of internal audit, the importance of specialization, and future trends in a data-driven environment. Kyle also introduces The Audit Hub, a platform designed to connect and support audit professionals through resources and networking opportunities. Whether you’re an aspiring auditor, GRC professional, or industry veteran, this episode offers valuable insights on career development, audit innovation, and emerging trends. Timestamps         •        00:00 – Introduction to Kyle McMullen         •        03:12 – The Role of Internal Audit in Financial Crime         •        06:11 – Evolving Expectations from Internal Audit         •        08:20 – Specialists vs. Generalists: Which Path to Take?         •        12:54 – AI and the Future of Internal Audit         •        14:45 – Growth of GRC in the Middle East         •        17:45 – The Audit Hub: A New Platform for Auditors         •        20:00 – Wrap-up and Where to Connect with Kyle Quotes to Remember         •        “The best learning curve you’ll ever have is through firsthand experience—try everything at the start of your career and specialize later.”         •        “Regulators are expecting third-line auditors to lead in remediation efforts—ensuring sustainable control environments are in place.”         •        “AI won’t replace auditors, but it will transform how we work—enabling deeper insights and better testing of controls.” Conclusion This episode offers an in-depth look at the evolution of internal audit and the role of financial crime compliance in today’s fast-changing landscape. With expert advice on career paths, specialization, and emerging trends, Kyle McMullen provides actionable insights to enhance audit careers. As the GRC landscape evolves, platforms like The Audit Hub will play a crucial role in supporting professionals across industries. Connect with Us 📌 Follow 3LoD Unlocked on LinkedIn 🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform 📧 For enquiries or to suggest topics, contact Ghassan Zeidan

The Evolution of Financial Crime Compliance with Shawki Khawash

In this episode of 3LoD Unlocked, host Ghassan Zeidan is joined by Shawki Khawash, a leading expert in financial crime compliance with over 20 years of experience. Shawki brings deep insights into cross-border payments, correspondent banking, KYC, trade finance, sanctions, and AML/CFT (Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism). Having served as an MLRO and Head of Sanctions in the Lebanese banking sector for a decade, Shawki now focuses on training and consulting, working with institutions across the globe, including PwC’s Academy and ACAMS in the Middle East. Shawki and Ghassan discuss the shifting landscape of financial crime compliance, the impact of global sanctions, and how geopolitical events shape financial regulation. Shawki explains the importance of staying ahead of financial crime risks by going beyond surface-level compliance and embracing ethical standards. He also shares practical career advice for compliance professionals, emphasizing emotional intelligence, creativity, and continuous learning as critical skills for the field. If you want to understand how financial crime compliance is evolving or are looking to advance your career in the GRC space, this episode offers essential insights. Timestamps         •        [0:00] – Introduction to Shawki Khawash and Overview of His Career         •        [3:04] – Regulatory Compliance vs. Financial Crime Compliance         •        [7:55] – Impact of Geopolitics on Sanctions and Financial Crime         •        [10:07] – Expansion of Predicate Offenses and New Criminal Risks         •        [13:18] – UAE’s Removal from the FATF Gray List: Lessons Learned         •        [17:04] – Importance of Certifications, Training, and Continuous Learning         •        [22:10] – Key Skills for Compliance Professionals: EQ, Creativity, and Stress Management         •        [27:26] – Ethics in Compliance and the Role of ESG Quotes to Remember         •        “Financial crime compliance is about going beyond rules—it’s about understanding the risks behind the transactions.”         •        “Compliance professionals must embrace continuous learning—there’s always something new to understand in this evolving field.”         •        “Emotional intelligence and creativity are just as important as technical knowledge in compliance roles.”         •        “The UAE turned gray listing into an opportunity for improvement—showing resilience and commitment to global standards.” Conclusion This episode offers a deep dive into the world of financial crime compliance, with Shawki Khawash providing expert insights on regulatory trends, sanctions, and career development. Shawki emphasizes the importance of going beyond surface-level compliance by focusing on ethics, continuous learning, and emotional intelligence. Whether you’re new to the field or an experienced professional, this conversation provides valuable takeaways on building a successful career in the evolving GRC space. Connect with Us 📌 Follow 3LoD Unlocked on LinkedIn 🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform 📧 For enquiries or to suggest topics, contact Ghassan Zeidan