Waleed Aldakheel is a seasoned professional in risk management and resilience. With decades of experience helping organizations steer uncertain environments and build robust strategies to mitigate potential threats, his passion for understanding the nature of risks and crafting innovative solutions has made him a trusted advisor.

Professional Background

With a strong finance and strategic planning foundation, Waleed has honed his expertise in identifying, assessing, and managing risks across diverse sectors such as finance, technology, and emergency management. Has successfully guided organizations through crisis and regulatory challenges using strategic foresight and analytical skills.

Expertise in Risk and Resilience

Waleed is recognized for his ability to develop customized risk management frameworks that align with organizations’ unique needs and objectives. Waleed focuses on creating resilient systems that enable businesses to proactively address risks, adapt to changing circumstances, and seize opportunities amidst uncertainty to safeguard organization operations and assets against potential threats, with a track record of successfully steering intricate and high-stakes situations.

Waleed’s journey into risk and crisis management began early in his career, as he recognized the role of effective planning and swift action in mitigating and recovering from unforeseen events. Drawing from his background in Information Technology and strategic management, Waleed honed his skills through hands-on experience, tackling various scenarios – from natural disasters, technology and cyberattacks to supply chain disruptions and pandemic crisis.

Over the years, Waleed has developed a comprehensive approach to risk management that highlights proactive planning, thorough vulnerability assessment, and agile response strategies. By working closely with stakeholders at all levels of an organization, he helps create customized resilience management frameworks that align with the organization’s specific needs and goals.

This tailored approach enables building plans, protecting critical assets, and minimizing the impact of potential risks. In addition to his expertise in risk assessment and strategy development, Waleed is recognized for his proficiency in Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery planning, conducting thorough risk assessments, identifying key dependencies, and outlining clear protocols for action.

Education and Certifications

Waleed holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management Information Systems from Washington D.C., USA, and multiple professional certifications in IT, crisis management, risks, business continuity, and auditing. Waleed holds titles as Chairman of DRI Institute-GCC, Chairman of the Saudi Organizations Business Continuity Committee, and Founder and CEO of a Continuity Consultancy firm (UMM AL Quwain—UAE).

In this interview, Waleed shares his expertise in risk management, resilience, and business continuity, providing insights into steering uncertainty and building robust strategies for organizational success. Let’s explore his experiences and expertise:

With over 31 years of experience in IT service and risk management, what motivated you to specialize in business continuity and crisis management? 

Coming from a technical school and IT work background, I alerted the dependency on technology nowadays in all aspects, at the individual competent level and the organizational operating scheme; what would happen if the technology part malfunctioned partially or as a whole? This ignites my interest in resiliency subjects, leading to an in-depth gravy toward understanding Risks, Continuity of business, disaster recovery and crisis management, where I peruse intensive study, search, training and certification.

Additionally, I had the chance to fully deploy Business Continuity Programs at 3 of the largest financial institutes in Saudi Arabia allowed me to strengthen and transfer my conceptual intention into an actual deployment of the organization’s resiliency. Regarding emergency and crisis management, quick thinking and strategic decision-making are the key factors for successful resubmission of operations through developed crisis and communication plans, conducted training and exercises, and implemented real-time monitoring systems.

As the Head of Business Continuity and Crisis Management at Banque Saudi Fransi, what key responsibilities drive your role day-to-day? 

As the Head of Business Continuity and Crisis Management, key responsibilities typically include:

• Developing and implementing business continuity plans to ensure the organization can continue operating during a disruption or crisis.
• Conducting risk assessments to identify potential threats to the organization’s operations and developing strategies to mitigate those risks.
• Collaborating with key organizational stakeholders to ensure comprehensive and effective business continuity plans.
• Training employees on emergency procedures and protocols to ensure they are prepared to respond to crisis.
• Monitoring and assessing potential threats and staying informed on industry best practices for business continuity and crisis management.
• Leading response and recovery efforts during a crisis, including coordinating with internal and external teams to address the situation effectively.
• Conduct regular testing and exercises to evaluate the effectiveness of business continuity plans and identify areas for improvement.

These responsibilities ensure the organization can effectively steer and recover from disruptions, safeguarding its operations and reputation.

Regarding emergency and crisis management, quick thinking and strategic decision-making are the key factors for successful resubmission of operations through developed crisis and communication plans, conducted training and exercises, and implemented real-time monitoring systems.

What guiding principles do you follow to ensure effective business continuity in a fast-growing industry? 

To ensure adequate business continuity in a fast-growing industry like banking, specific guidelines and principles organizations should followed are:

• Risk Assessment: Regularly assess and identify potential risks to your business operations, including technological, operational, and regulatory risks.
• Business Impact Analysis: Conduct a thorough analysis of how various disruptions could impact your business and prioritize critical functions that must be maintained.
• Comprehensive Planning: Develop a well-documented business continuity plan that outlines procedures for responding to different scenarios, including cyberattacks, natural disasters, and pandemics.
• Training and Awareness: Ensure that all employees are trained on the business continuity plan and that there is a high level of awareness within the organization about their roles and responsibilities during disruptions.
• Testing and Maintenance: Regularly test and update your business continuity plan to ensure its effectiveness and relevance in addressing new challenges and changes in the industry.
• Communication: Establish clear communication channels to keep stakeholders, including employees, customers, regulators, and suppliers, informed during disruptions and recovery efforts.
• Collaboration: Foster collaboration with industry partners, regulators, and other stakeholders to enhance resilience and share best practices in business continuity planning.
• Due diligence and Compliance: To mitigate legal and reputational risks, ensure that your business continuity plan complies with regulatory requirements and industry standards.

By following these guiding principles, you can build a robust business continuity framework that enables your institution to adapt to the challenges of a rapidly progressing industry and minimize the impact of disruptions on your operations.

How important is crisis management in today’s corporate sector, and what trends are you seeing in this area? 

Crisis management is a prominent aspect of today’s corporate sector, as businesses are increasingly susceptible to threats such as cyber-attacks, natural disasters, reputation crisis, and economic downturns. Proactive crisis management can help organizations mitigate risks, protect their reputations, and maintain stakeholder trust.

Some of the trends in crisis management include:

• Digital crisis communication: With the rise of social media and instant communication platforms, organizations must monitor and respond to crisis online in real time.
• Focus on preparedness: Companies are increasingly focusing on developing robust crisis management plans and conducting regular training and simulations to ensure readiness for unexpected events.
• Transparency and accountability: During a crisis, stakeholders expect transparency and timely updates. Companies that demonstrate accountability and open communication tend to manage crisis better.
• Integration of technology: Utilizing technology such as AI, data analytics, and automation can enhance crisis management capabilities by enabling faster decision-making and improving response efficiency.
• Globalization and interconnectedness: Companies operating globally face unique challenges in managing cross-border crisis and navigating diverse regulatory environments.

In conclusion, crisis management is a critical function that can make or break a company’s reputation and resilience. Organizations must stay abreast of emerging trends and continuously progress crisis management strategies to effectively overcome the intricacies of today’s corporate sector.

As a leader, how do you balance work responsibilities and personal life, especially with inherently high-stakes roles? 

Balancing work responsibilities and personal life is key to maintaining overall well-being and effectiveness as a leader, particularly in high-stakes roles. Some strategies that should be adopted to help achieve that balance:

• Prioritize and Delegate: Identify the most central tasks that require your attention and delegate other tasks to capable team members. This allows you to focus on high-impact activities while empowering your team.
• Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal time. Designate specific work-related tasks and dedicate uninterrupted time to individual activities and relationships.
• Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine to reduce stress and stay present in the moment.
• Take Breaks: Schedule regular breaks throughout your workday to recharge and avoid burnout. Use this time to engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
• Stay Organized: Use effective time management techniques, such as creating to-do lists and prioritizing tasks, to maximize productivity and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
• Communicate Effectively: Foster open communication with your team and loved ones about your availability and boundaries. Setting clear expectations can help prevent misunderstandings and reduce stress.
• Invest in Self-Care: Prioritize self-care by engaging in activities that promote physical and emotional well-being. This could include exercise, hobbies, spending time with loved ones, or seeking support from a mentor or coach.

By implementing these strategies, you can effectively balance your work responsibilities and personal life, improving overall satisfaction and performance as a leader.

You hold several certifications and are a certified instructor and auditor. How do you ensure your skills remain relevant and up-to-date in such a specialized field? 

Staying relevant and up-to-date in a specialized field like crisis and auditing is necessary for maintaining professional certifications and providing high-quality services. Specific skills and certifications must be ensured to remain current:

• Continuous Learning: Regularly attend workshops, seminars, and training programs related to auditing and instruction to stay informed about the latest trends, best practices, and regulatory changes.
• Networking: Build a strong professional network with other experts in the field, attend industry conferences, and participate in online forums to exchange knowledge and insights with peers.
• Certification Renewal: To renew your credentials, make sure to stay current with your certifications by completing any required continuing education or professional development activities.
• Self-study: Read industry publications, research reports, and academic journals to deepen your knowledge and stay updated on new developments in the certification field.
• Mentorship: Seek out mentorship opportunities or become a mentor yourself to share knowledge and receive guidance from more experienced professionals in the field.
• Incorporate Feedback: Actively seek feedback from clients, colleagues, and supervisors to identify areas for improvement and adjust your approach to better meet your professional needs.

You can ensure your skills remain relevant and up-to-date by staying proactive and engaged in your professional development.

What advice would you give to professionals starting business continuity and crisis management careers?  

For professionals in the field of business continuity and crisis management, there are a few tips to consider:

• Get Educated: Invest in relevant certifications, training programs, and workshops to build a strong foundation of knowledge in business continuity and crisis management practices.
• Stay Informed: Stay up-to-date with industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in business continuity and crisis management.
• Build a Network: Connect with industry professionals, join relevant associations or groups, and attend networking events to expand your contacts and learn from experienced practitioners.
• Gain Practical Experience: Look for opportunities to gain hands-on experience through internships, volunteer work, or entry-level positions in organizations prioritizing business continuity and crisis management.
• Develop Soft Skills: Effective communication, problem-solving, decision-making, and leadership skills are fundamental in this field. Work on developing these skills to succeed in business continuity and crisis management roles.
• Be Proactive: Anticipate potential risks, identify vulnerabilities, and develop proactive strategies to prevent and mitigate crisis before they occur.
• Stay Calm Under Pressure: Crisis can be stressful and fast-paced. Practice remaining calm, focused, and decisive in high-pressure scenarios to lead effectively during times of uncertainty.

Remember that continuous learning, adaptability, and a proactive mindset are key factors in thriving in a career in business continuity and crisis management. I wish all of you Good luck on your journey!

What are your primary goals for your career and profession in the field of risks and resilience initiatives? 

As I move forward with my career and profession in the field of risks and resilience, it is worthy that I set clear goals to guide progress and development. Some primary goals and initiatives I will be considering are:

• Continuously enhance my knowledge and skills: Stay updated with the latest trends, technologies, and best practices.
• Pursue relevant certifications and training programs to expand my expertise.
• Build a strong professional network: Connect with industry experts, peers, and mentors to exchange ideas, learn from their experiences, and explore collaboration opportunities that can help me advance in this career.
• Lead impactful risk management projects: Aim to lead high-impact projects that demonstrate my ability to assess, mitigate, and manage risks effectively while enhancing my organization’s or clients’ resilience.
• Foster a culture of risk awareness: Advocate for a culture of risk awareness and resilience within my organization or clients by promoting risk management best practices, conducting training sessions, and engaging with stakeholders at all levels.
• Contribute to thought leadership: I will share my insights and expertise through writing articles, speaking at conferences, or participating in industry events to establish myself as a thought leader in risks and resilience initiatives.
• Work toward Saudi next generation in this field to provide them with the necessary and relevant educational program, best practices, certifications and career development
• Assist government and semi-government, public and private sectors with all knowledge in hand and engaging within Saudi 2030 vision to build strong and proactive resiliency for the loved country of Saudi Arabia

You’re also the founder of Continuity Consultancy FZE and the Chairman of DRI-GCC. How has managing this influenced your perspective or approach in your career, and what is your vision for the future of disaster recovery and business continuity across the region? 

As the founder of Continuity Consultancy FZE with an honorary title as Chairman of DRI-GCC, I have contributed to several engagements, providing consultancy advisory and educational program initiation for multiple clients, empowering the region with necessary resources that can embed the concept and importance of risks and resilience, especially in the education program designed for government and semi-government agency in light of the National Risk Framework implementation.

My experience has reinforced the significance of proactive planning, robust strategies, and effective communication in mitigating the impact of disasters on businesses and communities. As well as the collaboration, information sharing, and continuous improvement to enhance overall resilience understanding in the region

My vision for the future of disaster recovery and business continuity is to drive greater awareness, adoption, and advancement of best practices in this field. I envision a future where organizations are well-prepared for various risks and disruptions and able to leverage these capabilities to innovate, grow, and thrive in a rapidly changing environment.

I believe that promoting a culture of resilience, investing in state-of-the-art technology and training (especially for Saudi Arabia’s next generation), and fostering partnerships between the public and private sectors can strengthen the resilience of organizations and communities across the region. Ultimately, I aim to contribute to building a more resilient and sustainable future for all stakeholders.