(Credit: PARIMA)
Introduction of Profile:
Currently at Aboitiz Foods, Patricia Anne Alvaran plays a key role in strengthening organisation’s resilience against crisis. As a Business Continuity Management (BCM) specialist, she oversees resilience across countries in Philippines, Southeast Asia and China. Transitioning from accounting studies to cybersecurity consulting, she eventually finds her calling in risk management.
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From Accounting Graduate to Cybersecurity Consultant
Patricia’s professional journey began far from the world of risk. As a Certified Public Accountant, she initially studied accounting and expected to pursue the traditional path in the field. However, she soon realised she was drawn to a career that offered more diversity and dynamism. This led her to join SGV & Co., where she started as an Associate and later became a Senior Cybersecurity Consultant.
(Credit: Patricia Anne Alvaran)
“I didn’t have any experience in cybersecurity, and it was a completely new career path for me.”
Under the firm’s resilience programme, she supported clients on IT recovery, business continuity assessments and operational resiliency, work that ultimately laid the foundation for the BCM specialist she would later become.
A New Chapter, Integrating BCM into Risk Management
When Patricia began exploring new opportunities, she was specifically searching for a role focused on Business Continuity Management. This led her to Aboitiz Foods, where BCM sits within the organisation’s broader risk management structure.
(Credit: Patricia Anne Alvaran)
“When I was interviewed by Aboitiz Foods, they explained that their structure places BCM under a risk management programme.”
This transition meant deepening her understanding of enterprise risk management and the various programmes supported by the team.
“In our team, we support different programmes such as ERM, risk finance and incident management. Since we are a small team, I had to learn quickly.”
Guided by her Chief Risk Officer, Annacel Natividad, Patricia strengthened her foundations by pursuing the RIMS CRMP certification, which significantly boosted her confidence and technical grounding in risk.
(Credit: Patricia Anne Alvaran)
RIMS CRMP Preparation to Achieving the Certificate
Balancing full-time work and exam preparation was not easy, but Patricia made it work through discipline, teamwork and determination.
“I took around three to six months to prepare, but I only became serious two months before the exam. I also had discussions with my teammates so we could help each other prepare.”
Her successful completion of the certification marked an important milestone in her career in risk management.
Overcoming Challenges: Language Barriers and Preparing for the Unexpected
Managing BCM across China and Vietnam means regularly navigating language differences.
“In China, not many stakeholders speak English, in Vietnam they understand English but may not speak it.”
With support from cross-border teammates and the use of AI for quicker and more accurate translations, Patricia has significantly improved efficiency in preparing materials and communicating with stakeholders.
(Credit: Patricia Anne Alvaran)
One of Patricia’s most memorable experiences was conducting comprehensive simulation exercises, such as a multi-scenario simulation drills at sites. The exercise combined a terrorist attack, a fire and an oil spill into a single connected storyline, with participation from local government agencies.
Purpose and Motivation: Why She Loves What She Does
Patricia’s greatest motivation comes from the very heart of business continuity. For her, BCM is not just a framework or a checklist, it is meaningful work that directly protects people and preserves stability.
“What inspires me is knowing that my work translates into safeguarding jobs and allowing the company to serve its customers during a crisis. Protecting people and ensuring continuity provides a profound sense of purpose.”
As she looks toward the next phase of her career, Patricia hopes to guide and empower the next generation of professionals in business continuity.
She shares three key lessons she believes are essential for anyone entering the field of risk and resilience. First, build strong foundations in risk. Second, know your business well because every organisation faces risks differently. Lastly, stay updated and continue learning.
“Risk is constantly evolving, especially with emerging threats such as AI. Continuous learning is crucial.”
