In the intricate world of finance and compliance, Soe Wai Naung has crafted a career grounded in unwavering dedication to excellence, ethical leadership, and strategic foresight. With a trajectory that began as a Loan Officer, his rise to Chief Risk and Compliance Officer at Myanmar Citizens Bank is a testament to the power of continuous learning and purposeful ambition.
A Career Rooted in Growth and Leadership
Soe’s journey in the financial sector reflects a steady progression through key roles that each contributed to his well-rounded expertise. Beginning in microfinance and fintech, he gained hands-on experience as a Loan Officer and later advanced to roles like Risk Officer, Branch Manager, and Regional Risk Officer. These positions provided invaluable insights into the multifaceted challenges of banking and risk management.
Today, as Chief Risk and Compliance Officer, Soe leads with a strategic vision focused on implementing robust risk management frameworks, enhancing compliance protocols, and building organizational resilience. His academic foundation in finance and risk management complements his practical experience, embodying a lifelong commitment to refining his craft.
Guided by Values in Complex Decision-Making
For Soe, integrity and accountability are more than buzzwords—they are the cornerstones of his leadership. When faced with complex compliance issues, he prioritizes transparency and ethical decision-making. In a rapidly evolving regulatory environment, Soe ensures that his strategies align with legal requirements while upholding the organization’s reputation and stability.
By fostering a culture of “doing what is right,” he empowers his teams to navigate ambiguity with confidence, always placing the greater good above short-term gains. His proactive approach to risk management ensures that the bank not only complies but thrives within a competitive and dynamic financial landscape.
Balancing Innovation and Compliance
The rise of transformative technologies like AI and blockchain presents both challenges and opportunities. Soe sees this as a chance to align innovation with responsibility. By encouraging collaboration among compliance, technology, and business teams, he bridges the gap between regulation and progress.
“We carefully assess emerging technologies within existing frameworks and engage regulators early,” he explains. This forward-thinking approach allows Myanmar Citizens Bank to innovate responsibly, leveraging cutting-edge tools while maintaining stakeholder trust. For Soe, compliance and innovation are not at odds but complementary forces driving sustainable growth.
A Defining Moment in Compliance
An early career experience profoundly shaped Soe’s understanding of compliance. A seemingly minor oversight revealed significant regulatory risks, prompting a swift response. “We gained valuable insights that went beyond the regulatory fix,” he recalls. This pivotal moment underscored the role of compliance as a safeguard for stakeholders and a foundation for ethical business practices.
The lesson was clear: compliance is more than a necessity—it is a commitment to integrity and societal well-being. This philosophy continues to guide Soe in embedding ethical principles into every aspect of his work.
Understanding Human Behavior and Organizational Dynamics
One of Soe’s most surprising discoveries as a compliance leader has been the human response to change. “People often resist change not because they oppose it, but because of the uncertainty it brings,” he observes. This insight has been critical in implementing new regulations, where clear communication and empathy play pivotal roles.
By framing compliance as a tool to protect the organization and its customers, Soe fosters a sense of shared purpose. His leadership turns resistance into collaboration, enabling teams to embrace change with confidence.
Maintaining Resilience Amid Regulatory Fatigue
In the face of relentless regulatory changes, Soe prioritizes resilience—both personally and within his team. He builds a culture of adaptability, underpinned by continuous learning and the use of technology to streamline compliance efforts.
To combat burnout, he emphasizes open communication, celebrates successes, and ensures a balance between performance and well-being. “Our work is crucial for the institution’s stability and customer trust,” he shares, instilling a sense of pride and purpose in his team.
A Vision for Ethical Growth
Soe Wai Naung’s story is one of dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to ethical leadership. His ability to navigate complex challenges while staying true to core principles makes him a beacon of inspiration in the financial sector. Under his guidance, compliance is not merely a regulatory function but a strategic pillar of trust, resilience, and sustainable growth.
For Soe, the journey continues, driven by a vision to shape the future of banking with integrity and innovation at its heart.
