Promoting ethical leadership, economic empowerment, and social impact in financial services with Armel Roméo Kouassi #podcast

Armel R. Kouassi is Senior Vice President and Global Head at Northern Trust, a leading global financial services firm. In his role, Armel is responsible for optimizing balance sheets, managing financial risks, generate growth, earnings and driving portfolio performance across Northern Trust’s diverse business lines. With a focus on wealth management, asset servicing, and fiduciary services, Northern Trust serves institutional investors and high-net-worth individuals worldwide. Armel’s leadership philosophy blends transformational and servant leadership, with an emphasis on resilience, ethical decision-making, and creating a balanced, values-driven culture where teams can thrive.Throughout his career, Armel has garnered extensive experience across banking, corporate finance, fintech, and financial risk management. Having held senior roles at major institutions such as State Street Corporation, M&T Bank, Citi, and GE Capital, Armel has built a comprehensive understanding of global finance. His entrepreneurial spirit and senior banking experience have allowed him to lead across multiple sectors in the U.S., Europe, and Africa. Armel is deeply committed to community involvement and philanthropy. He is a passionate advocate for economic empowerment, the arts, and music and serves on the board of the Edmond Town Hall Theater, cultural landmark that enriches the lives of Connecticut residents. Board of Directors of the Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra in Connecticut. He serves on the board of the scholars of finance, an organization on a mission to inspire character and integrity in the young finance leaders of tomorrow. He serves in the FinTech Advisory Board for the Center for Financial Professionals. Armel was named Presidential Leadership Scholar 2023 as a bold, principled and visionary leaders in US making a difference in the world; and learning the presidential leadership of George W. Bush, William J. Clinton, George H.W. Bush, and Lyndon B. Johnson and their administrations. Outside of work, Armel is a father of three daughters, a private pilot and enjoys lifelong learning, supporting youth leadership, and promoting ethical leadership in the financial sector.