A Hands-On Approach to Credit Risk Supervision
As a Senior Examiner in the Division for Assessment of Credit Risk Management at the Central Bank of Montenegro, Milena Dakic recognized the unique relevance of the recent workshop on credit risk supervision to her professional responsibilities. In today’s rapidly evolving financial landscape, the role of supervisors is both increasingly vital and increasingly complex. This made the workshop's focus especially valuable. The event provided a well-structured exploration of the entire on-site supervision process, combining technical expertise, regulatory insight, and a strong emphasis on the soft skills required for effective supervision. This reflection outlines the key lessons learned, the practical applications, and the professional development gained through participation in what proved to be a dynamic and collaborative learning experience.
"As a Senior Examiner in the Division for Assessment of Credit Risk Management at the Central Bank of Montenegro, I was highly motivated to participate in this event because the topic directly aligned with my professional responsibilities. In today’s dynamic and interconnected financial world, the role of supervisors has never been more critical, or more complex: we are safeguarding trust in the system. That’s why initiatives like this are invaluable. Every session of this event was well-prepared and followed a clear agenda. We went through every phase of the on-site supervision process: the decision to conduct the on-site inspection, preparation, investigation, and reporting. Each step was examined both technically and from a regulatory standpoint, with a valuable emphasis on the soft skills required for effective communication and problem-solving.
The most valuable output of the workshop was the open, honest, and highly practical exchange of ideas. These conversations, both structured and informal, offered fresh insights into common supervisory challenges across different countries. Through these discussions, we gained new ways of thinking about issues we encounter regularly, as well as approaches to framing and addressing them more effectively. Open discussions allowed us to truly connect with each other, share experiences, and seek advice from the lecturers, who were not only highly knowledgeable but also approachable and supportive. Their use of practical examples and interactive sessions kept us engaged and inspired us to participate actively.
This experience meaningfully enhanced my professional capacity in the field of credit risk supervision. The workshop reinforced the relevance of integrating both quantitative analysis and qualitative assessment when evaluating an institution’s credit risk management framework. I’ve already applied several concrete elements from the workshop in my daily work, particularly during the preparation phase of on-site inspections, thanks to a clearer prioritization of risk indicators. Discussions around judgment-based assessments were especially relevant for evaluating the qualitative aspects of credit risk governance frameworks.
This was one of the most valuable learning experiences I’ve had. It left a lasting impression on me, inspired me for days afterwards, and broadened my understanding of supervisory practices. Supervision requires analytical precision, regulatory knowledge, and strong interpersonal skills. And the only way to keep up with evolving risks and expectations is through open dialogue, collaboration, and shared learning. This workshop reminded me that although we come from different countries, we face remarkably similar challenges, and together, we can find smarter, stronger ways to overcome them. The professionalism of the CEF team, the engaging format, and the inspiring environment make this initiative truly exceptional."