Her Story
About Niki
Niki Cortina is an accomplished risk governance and compliance leader with more than two decades of experience guiding organizations through complex regulatory, operational, and enterprise risk challenges. As Vice President of Risk Governance for Global Corporate & Investment Banking at MUFG, she leads initiatives that strengthen governance frameworks, ensure regulatory compliance, and mitigate risk across the organization. Known for her strategic mindset and collaborative leadership style, Niki has built a reputation for partnering with stakeholders at all levels to develop effective risk management solutions that support both business objectives and regulatory expectations.
Niki's career began at Bank of America during the mortgage crisis, where she managed a team of specialists handling highly litigated foreclosure cases. She later led a critical bankruptcy cornerstone document project, working alongside internal stakeholders and the U.S. Department of Justice to establish a consolidated framework for global use. Building on that experience, she spent six years with PennyMac Loan Services in servicing compliance, serving as a first-line risk management liaison and collaborating with auditors and regulatory partners. Her career continued to evolve through leadership roles in issues management, policy governance, and risk oversight before joining MUFG's Global Corporate & Investment Banking division, where she now leads risk governance efforts that help safeguard the organization and its clients.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Niki is deeply committed to leadership, mentorship, and community involvement. She credits much of her growth to the guidance of influential mentors and strives to pay that support forward by developing future leaders and fostering inclusive, high-performing teams. A recipient of a Culture of Excellence Award for her leadership on a complex Global Trust remediation initiative, she is passionate about creating environments where employees feel empowered to contribute and succeed. Outside of work, Niki is a devoted mother of three and an active supporter of organizations focused on Type 1 diabetes research and autism awareness. Her career reflects a dedication to resilience, service, and the belief that effective leadership begins with being approachable, supportive, and committed to helping others thrive.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Niki
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to resilience, continuous learning, and the support of exceptional mentors throughout my career. My professional journey began managing a team of litigation specialists at Bank of America during the mortgage crisis, followed by leading the bankruptcy cornerstone document project within the Program Procedures group. I later spent six years at PennyMac in servicing compliance as a first-line risk management liaison before advancing into risk governance leadership roles. Along the way, I balanced career growth with raising a family, overcoming significant personal challenges, and remaining committed to professional development. A key influence has been my mentor, Suzanne Bradshaw, whose guidance, support, and example of thoughtful decision-making helped shape my leadership style. I have always taken a self-directed approach to learning by seeking knowledge, studying policies and regulations, and building relationships with mentors, and I now strive to pay that forward by mentoring others as they develop their own careers and leadership paths.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the banking and risk management industry is to start by defining clear career goals and identifying the area of banking that aligns with your interests and strengths. I encourage taking advantage of internship programs whenever possible, as they provide valuable hands-on experience, help build professional networks, and can often lead to full-time opportunities after graduation. I also believe it is important to seek out mentors and leaders who genuinely care about your growth and well-being. Throughout your career, don't be afraid to ask questions, remain open to learning, and help create an environment where others feel comfortable sharing ideas, seeking guidance, and supporting one another's success.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
One of my most notable professional achievements was receiving a Culture of Excellence Award for leading a complex Global Trust remediation initiative. The project required me to develop a new weekly oversight process, drive meaningful behavioral changes among senior leaders, and build a sustainable framework across multiple lines of defense in less than a year. The recognition was especially meaningful because it reflected the collaboration, accountability, and commitment to excellence demonstrated by everyone involved.
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