Olufemi Patrick Dada’s career is a testament to the quiet, meticulous work that keeps the financial world spinning safely. With 17 years in banking compliance, risk management, and anti-money laundering (AML), Dada has carved a path from Nigeria’s bustling commercial banks to the heart of the UK’s financial sector. His journey is one of rigor, instinct, and an unwavering commitment to rooting out financial crime.
Born and raised in Nigeria, Dada’s academic roots lie in Agricultural Economics, earning a bachelor’s degree from the University of Ibadan before pursuing an MBA at Obafemi Awolowo University. But it was his pivot to compliance that defined his calling. Certified as an Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) and a Business Analyst Professional (CBAP), he honed a sharp eye for dissecting complex financial data and spotting the faint trails of suspicious transactions.
Dada cut his teeth in Nigeria’s banking scene, working with heavyweights like Intercontinental Bank, Access Bank, First Bank, and Stanbic IBTC. There, he built a reputation for designing compliance programs that didn’t just check boxes but slashed regulatory risks. His knack for identifying red flags—transactions that could signal money laundering or terrorism financing—helped protect institutions and, by extension, the broader financial system.
Now in the UK, Dada serves as a Senior Compliance Consultant for institutions like BNY Mellon, Monzo, NatWest, and others. His work harnesses advanced technologies—machine learning, AI-driven transaction monitoring, and blockchain-inspired traceability—to fortify compliance frameworks. His contributions align with industry trends, such as AI-powered fraud detection and scalable KYC solutions, as seen in global efforts by firms like EY and PwC. He’s led initiatives to overhaul digital compliance systems, collaborated with regulators, and flagged illicit activities that could destabilize financial ecosystems. His tech-driven approach has made him a linchpin in the fight against money laundering and terrorism financing.
Dada’s story isn’t just about credentials or accolades—it’s about a man who sees the financial system as a trust to be guarded. In an era of increasingly sophisticated financial crime, his work feels more vital than ever.