"Cadana is a unique blend of innovation and impact" - Adelaide, Compliance at Cadana

Have you ever wondered what it's like to be in charge of making sure a tech company can build trust, foster transparency, and enable business growth while mitigating risks?

We caught up with a seasoned compliance manager at Cadana, a leading player in the payroll solutions industry. Adelaide told us all about her day-to-day work, what keeps her motivated, and how she balances adherence to standards and regulations while fostering a culture of innovation and growth. Let's dive in to uncover the fascinating insights and experiences from the frontlines of compliance management.

Can you describe a typical day in your role at Cadana?

As a Compliance Manager, my daily routine begins with reviewing cybersecurity measures across our platforms to ensure robustness and adherence to standards. I then follow up on emerging security trends to develop training materials and sessions for our team, keeping them informed and up-to-date.

Throughout the day, I oversee regulatory compliance tasks, ensuring alignment with industry standards and regulations. I also regularly communicate with staff to reinforce adherence to security protocols and address any security concerns promptly.

What inspired you to choose a career in your field, and how did you end up at Cadana?

I have an unbridled passion for technology, law, and data protection, and what better way to channel this love than in a field that seamlessly combines all these aspects? I get to indulge my inner paranoia by ensuring everything is in order countless times—it's not just allowed, it's encouraged because safeguarding against data/information is essential.

Cadana was on the hunt for the perfect fit for their compliance role, and lo and behold, I happened to be conveniently nearby—like a cosmic coincidence! It was almost as if fate whispered, "Hey, you there! Perfect match for this job." So here I was, ready to bring my skills and enthusiasm to the table in a role that was ideal for both of us. Let's make compliance fun and effective together!

Outside of work, what hobbies or interests do you enjoy pursuing in your free time?

I love traveling and adventuring around the world, Scuba diving, swimming with turtles, and experiencing different cultures, people, and food. It's like embarking on a thrilling quest to uncover the mysteries of our planet—plus, who doesn't enjoy a good adventure? But let's be clear: when it comes to activities, I draw the line at hiking. Nope, not even going there! Who decided that sweating uphill was "fun"? Let's keep it in the realm of exciting and enjoyable, not uphill struggles and sore calves!

Another thing I love is listening to good music, especially the lively highlife tunes from Ghanaian legends like Daddy Lumba, Amakye Dede, and Kojo Antwi. Their music is like a burst of pure happiness and rhythm that lights up my soul.

In your opinion, what is the most exciting aspect of working at Cadana?

I have the firsthand experience of witnessing Cadanas’ unique blend of innovation and impact within the fintech sector. We continuously push boundaries with cutting-edge technology to enhance payroll solutions. Contributing to a company that is reshaping the industry on a global scale, while improving efficiency and security for our clients, is motivating and fulfilling. This dynamic environment makes every day at Cadana exciting.

What tools or technologies do you rely on to streamline compliance processes within the organization?

I leverage compliance management softwares like Vanta and Okta, document management systems like Notion, and risk assessment tools to streamline processes, automate workflows, and enhance transparency across compliance initiatives.

What's a little-known fact about your job that you think our audience might find fascinating?

A common misconception about compliance is that people think it’s solely about rules and regulations. In reality, it's about building trust, fostering transparency, and enabling business growth while mitigating risks - we are strategic partners driving ethical practices.

What measures do you take to ensure that all employees understand and adhere to compliance policies and procedures?

I employ a multi-faceted approach that includes regular training sessions, tailored communications, compliance puzzle and quiz games, and incentivizing compliance. By fostering a culture of accountability and transparency, employees are empowered to make informed decisions aligned with compliance standards.

Are there any particular travel destinations on your bucket list, and if so, what draws you to them?

I'm keen on traveling to Japan to explore its captivating history and incredible cuisine. Venturing through Japan will provide me with an opportunity to immerse myself in its rich traditions of simplicity, known as "Shibui" in Japanese, which permeates various aspects of their daily life. In Japan, simplicity is highly esteemed, symbolizing elegance, refinement, and good taste. I look forward to savoring delicious dishes like sushi and ramen, and marveling at breathtaking sights such as cherry blossoms in full bloom since this happens only once a year and lasts for just up to 14 days.

Additionally, Morocco is on my travel bucket list for its stunning landscapes, vibrant markets, and culture. These destinations promise unique experiences that will broaden my understanding of diverse cultures, introduce me to new culinary delights, and showcase breathtaking scenery.

Can you share a favorite book or movie that has had a significant impact on you?

Two books that rocked my financial world are "The Psychology of Money" by Morgan Housel and "The Richest Man in Babylon" by George S. Clason. These gems aren't your typical boring finance books—they're like the cool kids at the financial literacy party. They've totally reshaped how I think about money and wealth, and now I'm feeling like the next Warren Buffett (well, maybe not quite yet! 😅). Seriously though, these reads have been eye-opening and have definitely influenced my approach to personal finance and investing.

Can you share one piece of advice for individuals interested in pursuing a career in your field?

There is plenty of advice circulating on this topic, but one particular piece of advice I received from my mentor, Jones, resonates strongly with me: "Building a career in information security, like any other career, requires genuine interest, dedication, and effort. Stay persistent, stay curious, embrace challenges, and consistently seek opportunities for growth and development. Don’t forget to have fun"