Teodora Christova

I have dedicated most of my career to banking and financial services, with the past 14 years spent at LSEG Risk Intelligence. In my current role, I lead the development and execution of Global Strategic Partnerships, collaborating with leading technology companies to deliver integrated and comprehensive solutions for our customers. This work supports their due diligence, KYC, and third-party screening efforts, while also addressing fraud detection and the fight against financial crime. My extensive experience in investment banking has equipped me with a deep understanding of corporate finance, valuation, and contract negotiations, having advised on some of the largest M&A transactions in Central and Eastern Europe. I hold a Masters Degree in Finance and a ICA Certificate in Anti-Money Laundering from the International Compliance Association.

What makes you a Risky Woman?

I consider myself to be an innovative and execution-focused leader, demonstrating resilience and energy in my approach. Embracing change and disruption has allowed me to evolve into a global business leader, and I take pride in contributing to a balanced perspective within our leadership team, particularly in addressing critical risk decisions for our clients.

Name your top 3 achievements

1. Laying the foundations of LSEG Partner Strategy, including processes, policies & procedures and frameworks, to build and end-to-end Partnership Program for Risk Intelligence has been a fulfilling journey over the past 5 years. Witnessing our community of 400 partners across Screening, Digital Identity & Fraud and Enhanced Due Diligence and LSEG joining forces to offer holistic integrated services and diverse tech choices to customers has been rewarding. It is fantastic to be able to execute on that strategy together with our talented sales and partner teams in all regions across the world.
2. One of my greatest achievement lies in cultivating a deep sense of curiosity, resilience and an open minded approach, shaped by my upbringing in communist Bulgaria. This unique background, combined with my international experiences, has enabled me to forge a fulfilling career in one of the major financial centers in the world.
3. I am proud of having leadership and senior management roles within an organization that has a significant societal impact, contributing to our clients’ efforts in identifying and combating financial crime. I also take pride in balancing my professional responsibilities with my role as a mother to two wonderful daughters, aged 12 and 9, and as a supportive wife. Being a role model for my children is of utmost importance to me.

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

Regarding the biggest risk I’ve taken in my career, I made the decision to leave my investment banking position to pursue further studies in the United States, which led to a successful career transition. Relocating to different continents to support my international experiences across Europe, the UK, and the US involved considerable risk and cultural adjustments, often requiring me to start anew. However, these experiences have profoundly enriched my perspectives and shaped me into the global business leader I am today.

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

I hiked “Kom-Emine” – the longest high mountain trek in Bulgaria – 700km (435m) in 18 days.

What is the best quality for successful leaders in Risk?

Curiosity, strategic thinking, innovation and proactive approach. Effective leaders not only take decisive actions but also lead by example. They inspire their teams and foster a collaborative environment, guiding everyone on a shared journey toward success.