The hidden impact of risk: Insights for boards and tough questions for managers

Overview

Why Risk Matters to Strategic Objectives 

• Defining risk in line with strategic goals (ISO/COSO frameworks). 
• Highlighting risk’s composite impact on organizational objectives.
• Addressing common board blind spots in linking risk to strategy. 

 Objective-Centric Risk Management (OCR) Framework 

• OCR aligns risks with mission-critical objectives, moving beyond traditional risk registers. 
• Case studies of successful OCR adoption. 

 Strategic Questions Boards Must Ask 
Key questions often avoided by risk managers: 

• Are risks to strategic objectives managed effectively? 
• How do uncertainties affect goal confidence? 
• Are resources focused on high-impact risks? 
• Driving accountability, transparency, and informed decisions. 

 Bridging Risk and Strategy
Tools for boards to enhance oversight: 

• Framing actionable questions. 
  Spotting early warning signs of risks. 
• Fostering a risk-aware, strategy-aligned culture. 

 Conclusion 
Why boards must embrace tough questions to align risk, opportunity, and strategy for better performance. 

Rodney Young

MInstD 

Rodney Young is a recognised audit and risk leader with extensive experience in organisational risk, assurance, and strategic leadership. As GM Risk and Assurance at Gallagher Group Limited, Rodney leads enterprise risk, internal audit, and organisational resilience across global operations. He has pioneered innovative approaches such as AI-enabled risk frameworks and objective-centric models, enhancing organisational agility and performance. 
  
Rodney has also held key risk and assurance leadership roles at Te Pūkenga, and Te Wānanga o Aotearoa. His contributions have earned him accolades such as the RiskNZ Risk Professional of the Year Award (2024) and runner-up for RMIA's Risk Leader of the Year (2023). He currently serves as a National Board Director for the Institute of Internal Auditors New Zealand, and on the Board of Trustees for Community Link Trust, where he contributes to building resilient and high-performing organisations. 
  
With advanced qualifications in leadership communication, internal audit, and risk management, Rodney combines strategic insight with cultural competence, including mātauranga Māori, to deliver inclusive and impactful governance solutions. 

Additional information

Covid-19 precautions

By registering for this event you are confirming that you agree to adhere to our Covid-19 health and safety measures. If you are unwell or have any Covid-19 symptoms please do not attend this event.

Additional requirements

Should you have any dietary, mobility, cultural or other requirements, you can let us know on the registration form.

Branch event cancellation policy

Regrettably, registration fees cannot be refunded when cancellations are received within two working days prior to any branch event.

See our standard terms and conditions for more information.

Contact

Megan Beveridge
Waikato and Bay of Plenty Branch Manager

+64 21 358 772
megan.beveridge@iod.org.nz

Our sponsors

The Waikato branch acknowledges the generous support of