Deborah Bailey

Background

About Deborah Bailey

As an executive at the Federal Reserve and with KPMG and Deloitte, I’ve developed a reputation for anticipating trends and building long-term strategies. I provide candid assessments of tough issues and envision the next best steps. Sometimes those assessments and opinions are unpopular! Often the way forward is challenging. But just as often, the results have benefited my firm, our clients, American citizens, and the global financial community. For example … >> At KPMG, we’ve added several new practice areas in anticipation of shifts in the industry and the overall business environment. As challenges emerge for our clients, we’re ready with solutions.>> When I joined Deloitte, banks were becoming investment advisors and investment firms were adding banking. Yet our advisory services comprised separate groups serving the two industry segments. I suggested creating a dedicated practice area that could serve both—thus streamlining our processes while creating a broader pool of expertise for clients.>> The 2008–2009 crisis affected every financial institution in the country. I was part of the leadership team at the Federal Reserve that pushed for remedies that meant new regulations and greater scrutiny—such as the large-bank stress tests that increased transparency, led to recapitalization, and helped stabilize the markets. Like most people, I didn’t grow up dreaming to be a banking expert! I was fortunate to be recommended for my first professional job, as an analyst with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, by a college professor. My work on a prominent insider trading case captured attention and led to many steps up the ladder of the OCC and eventually the Fed before I moved into the professional services industry. Every step of the way I’ve focused on building great teams and creating a culture of respect, inclusion, and collaboration. What’s next? Our world of constant change means constant challenges. I’m excited to take them on.