Sally Savoia: A Journey of Excellence in Compliance and Risk Management

In the ever-evolving world of finance, where regulations shift and markets fluctuate, only a select few professionals can navigate the complexities of compliance and risk management with the grace and proficiency that Sally Savoia has demonstrated over her 25-year career. Based in London, Sally’s journey in the world of finance, compliance, and risk management reflects her dedication to excellence, her pursuit of innovation, and her unyielding focus on creating value through strategic initiatives.

Foundations of Knowledge: Education and Expertise

Sally’s rise to prominence began with her solid academic foundation. She holds both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s Degree in Statistical Science from the University of Bologna, one of Italy’s oldest and most respected universities. This strong educational background laid the groundwork for her analytical abilities and attention to detail, qualities that have proven indispensable throughout her career. Her in-depth understanding of statistical methods not only enabled her to assess risks and develop strategic insights but also provided her with the technical skills needed to excel in compliance roles in a fast-paced and data-driven industry.

In addition to her academic qualifications, Sally has earned several notable certifications, including the ICA Diploma in Governance, Compliance & Risk. This globally recognized qualification underscores her expertise in corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and managing risks, setting her apart as a leader in her field. Moreover, her deep understanding of algorithmic trading has enabled her to stay at the forefront of technological advancements in financial markets, which increasingly rely on complex algorithms to execute trades and assess risks. This unique blend of statistical acumen, technical prowess, and compliance expertise has made Sally a vital asset in every organization she has worked with.

Career Milestones: Leading the Charge in Compliance and Risk Management

Sally’s professional journey began in Italy, but her influence quickly spread across Europe as she took on increasingly senior roles in compliance and risk management. Her career is marked by a series of high-profile positions, each of which allowed her to refine her skills, broaden her experience, and make significant contributions to the institutions she served.

Sally’s contributions at StoneX didn’t end there. She was promoted to Senior Compliance Development Manager, a role in which she oversaw compliance reporting and led several key projects aimed at enhancing the company’s compliance infrastructure. One of her major achievements in this position was her ability to align the company’s compliance initiatives with its broader business objectives. By working closely with senior management and regulatory bodies, she ensured that StoneX met all regulatory requirements while also achieving its growth targets. Her leadership in this role earned her a reputation as a forward-thinking compliance leader capable of balancing regulatory obligations with business needs.

Beyond StoneX, Sally held positions at TRADING 212 and ActivTrades Plc, where her focus remained on regulatory compliance, risk management, and client support. At these firms, she played a critical role in ensuring that all regulatory policies were properly implemented and followed, especially as both companies were expanding into new markets. Her ability to manage client relationships, support operational compliance, and navigate the regulatory landscape helped these firms mitigate risks while maintaining strong, trusting relationships with their clients.

A Decade at Fineco: A Defining Chapter

Perhaps the most significant chapter in Sally’s career was the decade she spent at Fineco, one of Italy’s most prestigious and respected banks. As a Financial Advisor, Sally provided critical financial guidance to a diverse range of clients, helping them navigate the complexities of the financial markets. Her expertise and professionalism allowed her to earn the trust of her clients, many of whom relied on her for long-term financial planning and investment strategies.

During her time at Fineco, Sally became a registered Financial Advisor with the Italian financial registry, further cementing her credentials as a trusted expert in the field. Additionally, 20 years ago, she earned the European Financial Advisor certification (EFPA), a distinguished certification that recognizes her expertise and commitment to providing the highest standards of financial advice.

Sally’s decade-long tenure at Fineco not only allowed her to hone her advisory skills but also gave her a deep understanding of the Italian financial landscape. This experience proved invaluable as she moved into more senior roles in compliance and risk management, where her advisory background provided her with a unique perspective on the challenges that financial institutions face.

Current Role: Leading Compliance at a Liquidity Provider

Today, Sally holds a key leadership role as Deputy to the Head of Compliance at a prominent liquidity provider based in London. In this capacity, she assists in managing the compliance team, oversees the documentation process for new financial products (particularly Key Information Documents (KIDs)), and supports the company’s first line of defense. Her responsibilities include ensuring that all new products meet regulatory standards before they are introduced to the market, as well as collaborating with various internal departments to maintain compliance with industry regulations.

One of Sally’s primary focuses in her current role is optimizing compliance frameworks. By streamlining processes and introducing new technologies, she has been able to increase efficiency and reduce the risk of regulatory breaches. Her leadership in this area is driving her organization to become more agile and responsive to the ever-changing regulatory landscape, ensuring that it remains compliant while also staying competitive.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Excellence

Sally Savoia’s career is a testament to her passion for compliance, her dedication to risk management, and her commitment to excellence.