Behind the Risk Episode 1 – powered by Cedar Rose

Navigating the complex world of Compliance and Technology with Alina Ward

In a debut episode of "Behind the Risk," Frederic Paquay, Chief Operating Officer at Cedar Rose, engages in a deep and revealing conversation with Alina Ward, the Director of Legal & Compliance at Jetex. This insightful episode not only sets the stage for a series dedicated to clarifying the complexities of risk management across various sectors but also zooms in on the ever-evolving landscape of compliance and legal frameworks within the logistics and aviation industries.

Alina Ward, an expert and innovator in her field, offers her valuable insights and experiences, steering Jetex - a leader in executive aviation - through the complex landscape of global regulations and risk management strategies. With her extensive international experience and a profound understanding of diverse legal systems, Alina offers a rare global perspective on the challenges and opportunities that define the current state of compliance and risk management in the UAE.

The essence of compliance and technological synergy

The discussion begins with an insightful examination of the crucial role that legal and compliance departments play in ensuring the seamless operation of logistics and aviation services. Alina Ward emphasizes the importance of not only adhering to regulations but also fostering a culture of compliance within the organization. She argues that compliance transcends mere rule-following; it is about cultivating an ethos of ethics and integrity at every level of the business. "Compliance is not just a checklist or a set of rules to follow; it's about creating a culture where ethics and integrity are at the core of all we do," Alina explains, highlighting the nuanced approach needed to navigate the complex regulatory environment effectively.

Embracing technology while valuing human insight

Alina delves deeper into the transformative role of technology in bolstering compliance efforts. From automating due diligence to utilizing advanced software for sanctions compliance, technology stands out as an indispensable ally. Yet, she cautions against an over-reliance on technological solutions, advocating for a balanced approach that values human judgment as much as algorithmic precision. "In the world of compliance, technology can be a powerful tool, but it should not replace the nuanced understanding and ethical judgment that only humans can provide. It's about finding the right balance," she asserts, underscoring the irreplaceable role of human insight in the compliance equation.

Charting the global regulatory landscape

A significant portion of the conversation is dedicated to unraveling the complexities of the global regulatory framework. Ward discusses her direct experiences with the international scope of laws, including those from the US and UK, providing insight into the challenge of complying with a variety of international regulations while ensuring operational efficiency across different regions. "The challenge lies in not just understanding a wide array of international laws but in strategically navigating them to ensure global compliance without hindering the agility of our operations," Ward reflects, offering a glimpse into the strategic mindset required to manage compliance on a global scale.

Empowering the next generation

Looking ahead, Alina Ward discusses emerging trends in compliance, including the increasing focus on data protection and the potential of technologies like blockchain to revolutionize the field. Her forward-thinking insights provide a roadmap for organizations aiming to stay ahead of the compliance curve. Moreover, Alina shares empowering advice for aspiring compliance professionals, emphasizing the importance of ethical integrity, lifelong learning, and an unquenchable curiosity about the world. "The journey in compliance is one of continuous learning and adaptation. Embrace it with integrity and an open mind," she advises, inspiring the next generation of compliance leaders.

Stay tuned

Tune in to the premiere episode of "Behind the Risk" featuring Alina Ward and hosted by Frederique Paquay, for a comprehensive and accessible exploration of compliance and risk management within the logistics and aviation industries. Stay tuned for more insightful discussions to come.