Sophie Bowler

As Group Chief Risk & Compliance Officer at Zodia Custody, I lead the global risk and compliance agenda for one of the most trusted institutional digital asset custodians. My remit spans seven jurisdictions, where I design and implement enterprise-wide frameworks that enable safe, compliant, and resilient operations in a rapidly evolving digital asset ecosystem. I relocated to Sydney in 2025 to co-lead and build Zodia Custody Australia, embed executive compliance and risk leadership as a Responsible Manager under the AFSL framework, establish AFSL-ready compliance and risk systems, and secure the AFSL license - while supporting broader APAC operations. I sit on the Executive Committee, advising the Board on risk, compliance, and regulatory strategy. I have built and scaled Zodia’s global risk and compliance capabilities from inception to a mature, multi-jurisdictional model, delivering frameworks that meet stringent regulatory standards for Digital Assets while supporting innovation and growth in a rapidly developing Digital Asset ecosystem. This includes:- Redesigning Zodia’s Enterprise Risk Management Framework into a globally aligned, robust structure that strengthens governance, culture, and risk ownership.- Developing and implementing comprehensive and tailored digital asset compliance programs covering financial crime prevention, blockchain analytics, Travel Rule compliance, conduct, conflicts of interest, third-party risk, data privacy, and whistleblowing.- Spearheading regulatory strategy and licensing for expansion from 2 to 7 countries.- Leading engagement with global regulators including ASIC, AUSTRAC, HKMA, MAS, VARA, FSRA, FCA, CBI, and CSSF, influencing regulatory frameworks for digital assets.- Designing risk and compliance controls to enable the design of innovative digital asset products. Prior to Zodia, I spent 7 years at EY UK as a Director in the Financial Crime Consulting practice, advising global banks and crypto firms on financial crime compliance transformation, regulatory remediation, and risk governance. I led the EY team's UK crypto offering and served as a trusted advisor to C-suite executives on AML/CTF, sanctions, and risk management. Passionate about shaping the future of digital assets, I combine deep regulatory expertise with strategic leadership to drive innovation, resilience, and trust in the Digital Assets industry.