OCBC Taps Risk Veteran as New CRO

OCBC Taps Risk Veteran as New CRO

In a bold move that reinforces its risk leadership amid turbulent global conditions, OCBC appoints a new Group Chief Risk Officer, succeeding long-time stalwart Noel DCruz. Her mandate: fortify the bank’s position as a Southeast Asian powerhouse in the face of rising intra-regional financial flows.

OCBC announced on Wednesday that Carina Lee will take the helm as Group Chief Risk Officer starting 1 January 2026. Currently serving as Group Chief Credit Officer for the bank’s wholesale business, Lee steps in as veteran Noel Gerald DCruz retires after a 36-year tenure.

«Carina Lee’s appointment testifies to our deep bench strength,» said Group CEO Helen Wong, highlighting the bank’s strategic foresight in leadership succession.

New Era

Lee brings over 28 years of experience spanning both business and risk functions. Since joining OCBC in 2021, she has sharpened the bank’s credit risk frameworks, expanded exposure to growth sectors such as technology and telecommunications, and laid the groundwork for an enlarged SME lending footprint across ASEAN and Greater China.

Her experience on the board of OCBC China and in global banking positions her uniquely for the Group CRO role.

Regional Titan with Global Discipline

With this leadership shift, OCBC underscores its reputation as one of the safest banks globally, the firm stated in a media release.

Formed in 1932, the bank ranks among the top 50 safest banks worldwide and carries stellar credit ratings from Moody’s, Fitch, and S&P. Operating across 19 countries, OCBC’s regional footprint, spanning Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Greater China, is firmly anchored by disciplined risk management and a commitment to innovation.

Signal to Markets and Stakeholders

Lee’s appointment comes at a time of renewed focus on intra-ASEAN and ASEAN-Greater China financial flows. By installing a seasoned risk professional with a regional and international track record, OCBC sends a clear message: it intends to lead the region not just in size, but in safety, agility, and foresight.