Aarthi Fernandez

Aarthi Fernandez is a Managing Director at Standard Chartered Bank with over 20 years of experience in Corporate & Commercial banking operations and Client service delivery.

She has served in various roles such as Global Head of Trade Operations, Chief Operating Officer (COO) for the South East Trade managing budgets of over $100mio across 45 countries and 2000+ staff globally and regionally in Singapore, London, India & Hubs across India, Malaysia & China.

Aarthi is a recipient of the 'Top50 Women in AI' award and has been recognized for driving innovation in Trade finance through industry awards and publications. She actively participates in 'Accelerated Leadership' programs and sponsors 'Diversity and Inclusion' committee initiatives.

With a passion for client obsession, digital innovation, and strong execution, Aarthi has been involved in designing strategic business roadmaps, large-scale Target operating models, cost optimization programs, organization restructuring, bank mergers, offshore migrations, and implementation of AML/Fraud/Sanctions frameworks.

She excels in accelerating new client outcomes, resolving distressed situations, creating sustainable solutions to complex issues, and enhancing growth in communities.

Aarthi's expertise lies in leveraging her digital mindset and Agile methodologies to translate strategic business vision into tangible client outcomes. She has spearheaded digital transformation programs using technologies like Artificial intelligence and Machine learning to enhance client participation in digital ecosystems and mitigate Financial Crime and Compliance risks.

Believing in diverse and inclusive teams, Aarthi is known for nurturing strong leadership talent within her teams. She actively supports young talent for career progression and scholarships, especially focusing on women.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Aarthi enjoys activities like deep-sea diving, yoga, and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). She is also a seasoned public speaker and panelist in forums discussing topics including digital CX, AI, trade finance, and AML.

Aarthi holds a PGCBM in Business from XLRI Jamshedpur and a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) from Ethiraj College For Women.

She has held various key positions at Standard Chartered Bank including Global Head of Trade Operations&Trade COO SEA, Head Global Operations - Trade finance, Head of Trade finance & Commercial banking operations Gbs, Head of Trade and Lending Operations, Europe, Vice President International Trade Finance Global Shared Services Centre, and Manager.