Profile: Yomi Oduwobi, Me-Dian Credit Union

Yomi Oduwobi, PhD 

Compliance Officer, Me-Dian Credit Union 

Career: 

Start in the credit union system: 2019 

Growing up in an academic family, Yomi was surrounded by role models who nurtured his eclectic career ambitions, from travel journalism and law to lecturing and research. Their support and encouragement laid the foundation for a career path as multifaceted as his interests. 

He began his professional journey in academia, working as an international university researcher and instructor of English literature and English communication skills for law students. Seeking broader experience, Yomi pivoted to a project management role through an internship at Credit Union Central of Manitoba (CUCM), which led to a role as Manuals Project Assistant in the Lending and Compliance department. 

To gain frontline experience, he transitioned to a role in Member Services at Entegra Credit Union, before it merged with Assiniboine Credit Union, and later moved into his current role as Compliance Officer at Me-Dian Credit Union. 

A typical day: 

Yomi begins each workday by reviewing his calendar to prioritize tasks and prepare for meetings. He then checks Me-Dian Credit Union’s intranet, The Lodge, and CUCM’s CUCommunity for the latest news and updates. Once briefed, he turns his attention to investigating suspicious transactions or fraud cases, alongside other operational matters. 

Throughout the day, Yomi collaborates closely with frontline operations and member services, providing support and guidance on regulatory compliance. He also responds to requests or inquiries from associates and teams across finance, lending, commercial, governance, and project management. 

His interdisciplinary background is an asset when consulted on legal issues such as wills and estates, powers of attorney, contracts, fraud and scams, as well as the development and interpretation of policies and procedures. 

Continuous learning and improvement: 

Yomi is a lifelong learner whose academic and professional qualifications reflect his commitment to continuous growth. He holds bachelor’s degrees in both English and Law, a master’s and doctorate in English Literature, and a postgraduate diploma in Project Management. His credentials also include the Project Management Professional (PMP) designation, Canadian Anti-Money Laundering Institute (CAMLI) Compliance Officer and Practicing Associate designations, along with several management certifications. 

An avid reader and world traveler, Yomi approaches every experience as an opportunity to learn. Passionate about acquiring and sharing knowledge, he looks forward to conducting research and creating presentation materials for Me-Dian Credit Union’s monthly compliance training sessions. 

Keys to success: 

Yomi sees knowledge as the driving force behind his success. With a strong academic foundation and a wide range of experience, he is often regarded as a wellspring of insight. Equally important is the support and encouragement he receives from family, friends, and colleagues, who motivate him to continuously improve, pay it forward, challenge assumptions, and subvert stereotypes. 

Recommended reading (or other resources) for young leaders: 

  • Think Big: Unleashing Your Potential for Excellence by Ben Carson 

  • The Gap and the Gain: The High Achievers’ Guide to Happiness, Confidence, and Success by Dan Sullivan 

  • Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell 

Guiding principles: 

  • Keep your dream alive; it will require patience and hard work. 

  • Becoming your authentic self may take time; appreciate the process as you evolve. 

  • Be knowledgeable and resourceful; opportunities may come when you least expect. 

CUYLM participation: 

Yomi served on the CUYLM Executive Committee from 2021 to 2023, an experience that directly paved the way for new career opportunities. During his tenure, he led the subcommittee responsible for launching CUYLM’s Mentorship Program, working closely with fellow committee member Randy Dagasdas, CEO of Me-Dian Credit Union. Recognizing Yomi’s skills, Mr. Dagasdas was elated when Yomi later accepted a position at Me-Dian Credit Union. 

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