(Credit: PARIMA) 

Introduction of Profile: 

As Head of Risk, Compliance, and Control at RMA Group, Orawan Wannadee brings over a decade of experience in risk management across various industries. A yoga enthusiast and a dog lover, she specialises in risk frameworks, regulatory compliance, and promoting risk awareness. Let’s dive into her journey as she shares insights into her career and personal life. 

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(Credit: Orawan Wannadee) 

Orawan graduated with a degree in Applied Statistics from Chulalongkorn University, Thailand, where she discovered her strength in data analysis. She later pursued an MBA in International Business at Chinese Culture University, Taiwan. 

Reflecting on her school days, Orawan shared, “There wasn’t a risk management program available for either my degree or master’s, but I loved math, so I chose to study Applied Statistics.” 

After earning her bachelor’s degree, Orawan began her career as a Control Specialist at ExxonMobil Limited. Through this role, she was introduced to risk management and recognised its importance in protecting organisational value amid uncertainty. 

During that time, a political protest blocked the office entrance and exit, forcing the company to implement a business continuity plan to relocate employees. This event marked the moment the company recognised the need for risk management and assessment. 

Overcoming Resistance: Orawan’s Approach to Implementing Risk Management  

(Credit: Orawan Wannadee) 

“The most challenging part of my career was implementing the risk management framework due to resistance to change. In the beginning, not everyone in the organisation was willing to embrace risk management strategies. It took time to educate people on the principles and process of risk assessment,” Orawan reflected on her experience working with three real estate companies. 

In Orawan’s view, to overcome the resistance to change is a top-down approach, where senior leadership recognises its importance and communicates it across the organisation. This ensures that everyone understands the value risk management brings to the company. 

“I highlighted how it (risk management) can improve decision-making, enhance organisational resilience, and ultimately drive sustainable growth. I presented concrete data and case studies to demonstrate the value of investing in a robust risk management framework.” 

Leveraging expertise to drive impactful results in career  

“My expertise in data analysis was crucial in developing targeted risk management initiatives. For example, I created fraud patterns to identify anomalies in delivery patterns and transaction data, flagging potentially fraudulent activities. This allowed our fraud operations team to intervene early, preventing a quantifiable number of parcel loss and bolstering our overall security measures.” 

(Credit: Orawan Wannadee) 

Orawan shared that implementing a risk management framework takes about six months, three months to establish the risk and policy framework, followed by three months of employee risk education, training, and material preparation. Risk assessment workshops with department heads then help align goals and identify potential risks.  

“Educating people on risk assessment takes time. I found that tailoring the approach to each team’s specific context was crucial. For example, with operational teams, I focused on practical applications and how risk management could streamline their daily work. I emphasised how it could enhance innovation by identifying potential roadblocks early on. I used workshops, training sessions, and one-on-one discussions to foster understanding and buy-in.” 

Achieving Work-Life Balance: Shifting from Career Growth to Self-Care 

(Credit: Orawan Wannadee) 

Orawan’s typical day begins at 5:30am, when she turns on the television to catch the news while working out or practising yoga. She then works from 8:30am to 5:30pm, and after work, she spends quality time with her husband and family over dinner. 

Orawan shared that her toughest personal challenge has been balancing multiple responsibilities, including career growth, personal commitments, and health.   

 “I spent about 1.5 years progressing from a risk specialist to a senior manager, then onto head of risk management, followed by a dual role in risk management and quality assurance. At that time, I prioritised my career growth, neglecting my personal development and health. I didn’t have a work-life balance,” Orawan reflected. 

“I now prioritise self-care. I perform better in other areas when I take care of my health. I also create a weekly and monthly schedule to manage my time, including setting priorities and attending yoga classes,” she shared. 

Journey with Shopee: Leveraging AI to Detect and Manage Risk 

(Credit: Orawan Wannadee) 

“Data-driven and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are the future of risk management. With the help of AI technology, we can work more efficiently and come up with ideas we never considered before, “said Orawan as she shared about her risk perspectives. 

“While working at Shopee, we used an internal AI developed by the company, which was not available for public use. This AI required expertise from the risk management and quality assurance teams, who were familiar with the risk processes. For example, if suspected fraud was detected through AI training, it would flag the case for us to investigate further or to develop a prevention measure before it happens.” 

Lastly, Orawan advises that to become a good risk manager, strong analytical and critical thinking skills are essential. It’s important to identify the root cause of issues, assess the risks, and think ahead on how to prevent them from occurring again. 

“The risks are always evolving, so risk managers must continuously learn. Building strong communication with stakeholders is also crucial. Lastly, with a proactive mindset, risk managers should anticipate risks before they become issues. This is what I have learned throughout my career.” 

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If you have a story that you would like to share, email   louisa.seow@parima.org to get in touch. Subscribe to PARIMA News for the latest updates, expert insights and coverage on risk management.