Banks’ risk-culture aspiration and values should identify specific attributes that are desired, as
well as those that are not. Such a statement is often developed by engaging many stakeholders
at the bank. After identifying the aspiration, the bank assesses the current risk culture and
identifies its strengths and improvement opportunities. Strengthening the risk culture also
requires changing individual’s mind-sets and behaviors. First, the bank is expected to foster
understanding and conviction about what changes are needed and why they are important
to individuals and the bank. Second, various initiatives would develop the talent and skills that
are needed to fulfill the various changes. Third, formal mechanisms would reinforce the new
processes and procedures. These could include evaluation and compensation mechanisms,
governance, and the accountability of the front line. Finally, role-modeling of desired behaviors
by senior management would supplement all of these. This is one of the most important and
impactful levers for change.