Richard Turrin

Richard Turrin is a globally recognised fintech expert, bestselling author and influential voice on the future of finance, technology and artificial intelligence. Ranked as the No. 4 global fintech influencer by Onalytica and consistently recognised among the world’s leading fintech thought leaders, Richard has spent decades helping organisations navigate technological disruption and financial transformation. His unique combination of executive leadership, academic expertise and deep industry knowledge makes him a highly sought-after keynote speaker. Drawing on extensive experience across banking, risk management, innovation and digital finance, Richard delivers valuable insights into emerging technologies, digital currencies, AI and the future of global financial services.

Richard’s career spans more than two decades in investment banking, risk management and financial innovation. He began his professional journey in risk advisory and structured product marketing at Paribas Capital Markets before joining American International Group as Director of International Environmental Liability Risk Management. He later held senior structured credit sales, origination and advisory positions with organisations including IntesaBci, Commonwealth Bank of Australia and Fitch Ratings. Following a period as a private equity advisor and financial consultant, Richard transitioned into academia as a Professor and Lecturer at Hult International Business School before joining IBM, where he served as Risk Solutions Executive and later APAC FinTech Executive for IBM Cognitive Studios.

An accomplished author and respected industry commentator, Richard has written two influential books: ‘Innovation Lab Excellence: Digital Transformation from Within’ and the bestselling ‘Cashless: China’s Digital Currency Revolution‘. His expertise has earned widespread recognition from leading industry rankings, including Favikon’s Top 3 LinkedIn China influencers, Onalytica’s Top 4 Fintech and Top 16 AI influencers, and Thinkers360’s Top 25 Fintech, Top 50 APAC and Top 100 Blockchain and Innovation thought leaders.

Today, Richard is regarded as one of the foremost authorities on fintech innovation, digital currencies and artificial intelligence. His broad experience across banking, technology, academia and consulting enables him to bridge the gap between strategy and implementation. Whether discussing the future of money, AI-driven transformation or innovation leadership, Richard provides audiences with practical insights and a global perspective on the forces reshaping business and finance.

Richard is hired by organisations seeking a clear and informed perspective on the future of finance, fintech, artificial intelligence and innovation. Combining executive experience, academic expertise and thought leadership, he translates complex technological developments into actionable business strategies. His presentations draw on decades of experience across global banking, risk management, digital transformation and emerging technologies. Known for delivering engaging, insight-rich keynotes, Richard helps leaders understand the implications of digital currencies, AI adoption, fintech disruption and innovation management, equipping audiences with practical tools to navigate a rapidly changing business landscape.

Here are some of the key milestones that define Richard Turrin’s remarkable career:

  • 2021 – Published the bestselling book ‘Cashless: China’s Digital Currency Revolution’, exploring the future of digital payments and central bank digital currencies.
  • 2019 – Authored ‘Innovation Lab Excellence: Digital Transformation from Within’, providing a framework for driving innovation in organisations.
  • 2016 – Served as APAC FinTech Executive for IBM Cognitive Studios, leading fintech innovation initiatives across the Asia-Pacific region.
  • 2013 – Appointed Risk Solutions Executive at IBM, helping financial institutions address risk, technology and transformation challenges.
  • 2011 – Became Professor and Lecturer at Hult International Business School, educating future business leaders on finance and innovation.
  • 2007 – Worked as a Private Equity Advisor and Financial Consultant for Changshu Lu Advisors, advising businesses on growth and investment opportunities.
  • 2007 – Joined Fitch Ratings in Structured Credit Sales, supporting institutional clients with complex credit and risk solutions.
  • 2003 – Held Structured Credit Sales and Origination responsibilities at Commonwealth Bank of Australia, focusing on debt financing and credit products.
  • 2001 – Worked in New Products Marketing and Advisory at IntesaBci, developing innovative financial solutions for clients.
  • 1991 – Served as Director of International Environmental Liability Risk Management at American International Group, overseeing global risk management initiatives.