Chiara Barbacci

Chiara leads the global partnerships function at EFI, helping firms create meaningful synergies that strengthen collaboration and ultimately deliver greater value to our clients. With deep expertise in financial crime operations — I bridge operational excellence with strategic partnerships.

Chiara’s role is focused on building networks that expand our capabilities, drive innovation, and give clients access to tailored, cost-transparent solutions. I’m passionate about fostering relationships that don’t just meet compliance requirements, but also create long-term growth opportunities.

What makes you a Risky Woman?

For me, risk has never just been about ticking boxes or meeting regulations, it’s about seeing opportunities where others see obstacles. I’ve built my career on connecting the dots: leading EFI’s global partnerships function to bring together firms, expertise, and ideas that spark real synergies. Those collaborations don’t just strengthen financial crime operations – they empower clients to face risk with clarity and confidence.

Being a Risky Woman means daring to push beyond the “safe” path. It’s about challenging conventions in compliance, asking the uncomfortable questions, and designing smarter, more transparent ways of working. I’ve learned that real impact happens when we lean into complexity rather than shy away from it. What drives me is the belief that partnerships — human, professional, global — are the most powerful tools we have in shaping a safer financial system. And that’s where I thrive: at the intersection of courage, curiosity, and collaboration.

Name your top 3 achievements

1. Established EFI’s global partnerships function, building strategic alliances that unlocked new service capabilities and client opportunities worldwide.
2. Designed and launched a price-per-case managed services model in financial crime operations, transforming cost transparency and scalability for clients.
3. Led successful delivery of large-scale financial crime operations projects, from screening to CDD and transaction monitoring, improving efficiency and compliance outcomes.

What is the biggest risk you’ve taken in your career?

The biggest risk I’ve taken was stepping away from a secure role in Europe to start something new in the Middle East, building everything from scratch. It was uncertain — but it opened doors I never imagined.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?

Most people don’t know I captain a tennis team in a national league — channeling my love for strategy, resilience, and team spirit beyond work.

What is the best quality for successful leaders in Risk?

For me, the leaders who thrive in risk are those who balance bravery with humanity.