CEO Insights Magazine

In the fast-paced and highly regulated world of finance, Chief Legal and Compliance Officers serve as the protectors of legal and ethical integrity within financial institutions. Their presence, armed with a deep understanding of the intricate nuances that govern the financial landscape, is indispensable. By possessing comprehensive knowledge of ever-evolving laws, regulations, and industry best practices, these astute professionals play a crucial role in ensuring compliance, mitigating risks, and safeguarding the reputation of their organizations.

With their expertise, such leaders proactively identify and manage potential legal and compliance challenges, fostering a culture that adheres to regulatory requirements. One exceptional Chief Legal & Compliance Officer who exemplifies this is Boren KORK.

The Chief Legal & Compliance Officer at J Trust Royal Bank, Boren KORK is a formidable force in the realm of legal and compliance. With an illustrious career spanning a year of exemplary service, Boren has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of legal integrity and regulatory compliance within the banking sector.

You possess over twelve years of experience. How has been your path to success and what is your success mantra?

In my view, true success in both career and life transcends mere monetary gain or extravagant living. It is a symphony of four interlocking puzzle pieces: proficiency in your endeavors, impassioned dedication, tangible rewards, and harmonizing your actions with your life's mission. My journey towards this meaningful success involves key steps: self-discovery, venturing into diverse options, seeking support from loved ones, embracing opportunities, and rejoicing in accomplishments while inspiring others. By amalgamating these pieces, I am forging a path toward a fulfilling existence that goes beyond material pursuits.

Tell us about your leadership approach. What are the guidelines or methodologies you follow as a leader?

In terms of leadership, I align with a participative/democratic style. I strongly believe in the biblical wisdom that 'If the whole body were an eye, how would you hear? Or if your whole body were an ear, how would you smell anything?' Recognizing that no individual possesses all knowledge, collaboration, and mutual support are paramount. Embracing this philosophy, I foster an environment where we work collectively, leveraging our unique strengths to achieve shared success.

How do you keep yourself up-to-date with ongoing industry trends to steer your organization toward the future?

While reading may not feature prominently among my hobbies, it holds an intrinsic role in my life as a means of acquiring knowledge. I embrace the weighty responsibility of learning through reading, with a particular fondness for the tangible allure of paper-based content over digital alternatives. Proficiency in foreign languages, particularly English, grants me access to a trove of insightful and up-to-date information. Moreover, I am courageous to seek wisdom from those around me, be it friends, colleagues, juniors, or even my children. In my quest for knowledge, I eagerly enrolled in workshops, seminars, and training that delve into topics that pique my curiosity.

What are the major challenges you have encountered initially while establishing yourself as a successful leader in the legal domain? How did you overcome them to emerge as a successful professional?

Certainly, the transition from a legal practitioner to an in-house lawyer in the banking sector posed significant initial challenges. Embracing this new chapter, I found myself immersed in a sea of unfamiliarity, requiring diligent learning, extensive reading, and a firm grasp of financial and business concepts. However, I consider myself fortunate to be surrounded by a network of knowledgeable and astute individuals who willingly offer their guidance whenever needed. Another biblical wisdom 'walk with the wise and become wise' resonates deeply with me, as their invaluable support has enabled me to overcome obstacles and thrive in my evolving role.

What is the future destination you are heading towards?

Driven by an insatiable thirst for growth, I aspire to transcend the boundaries of my legal expertise and venture into the realm of business leadership. With a firm determination, I envision myself evolving into an accomplished executive leader, equipped with a diverse range of knowledge, skills, and experiences.

Boren KORK, Chief Legal & Compliance Officer, J Trust Royal Bank

An alumnus of Nagoya University, Boren KORK stands as an exemplary legal and compliance luminary, with a remarkable track record of achievements and a great passion for upholding the highest standards of legal excellence within the banking sector. Currently, Boren is the Chief Legal & Compliance Officer at J Trust Royal Bank, apart from that she has been part of organizations like JICA and ANZ.

• Hobbies: Violin, Yoga, Swimming
• Favorite Cuisine: Khmer Noodle (popular Cambodian food you must try)
• Favorite Book: 'The Debt-Free Lifestyle' by Andrew Liuson, 'Millionaire Parents, Millionaire Sons' by Amy Yip
• Awards & Recognition: Listed in the Legal 500’s GC Powerlist 2019 as one of the most influential and innovative in-house lawyers in Southeast Asia