Michele Wucker

Global risk expert Michele Wucker helps businesses to manage enterprise risk to seize opportunities in today’s volatile, uncertain world of shifting geo-political, social, and economic realities. She coined the term “gray rhino” to focus attention on and counter leaders’ surprising vulnerability to obvious, probable, impactful risks: the subject of her 2016 global bestseller which has influenced central banks and other government policy makers; financial risk, ESG, and business continuity professionals; first responders; C-suites and boards of directors.

Michele founded the Chicago based strategic advisory firm Gray Rhino & Company to help decision makers ask the tough questions that lead to better choices and effective responses to threats and opportunities instead of mere “box ticking.”

Drawing on decades of experience in sovereign risk analysis in both emerging and developed markets and as a former think-tank CEO, Michele takes a dynamic systems approach to recognizing economic, social, and policy trends, their operational impacts, and their strategic risk implications. Her finance expertise ranges from global capital markets to migrant remittances and expanding financial access. She draws on a diverse, sophisticated global network to inform her forward-looking, actionable risk insights.

Living with celiac disease, Michele is especially keen to help food companies seize opportunities and avoid missteps in fast-growing allergy-friendly markets. She also has a strong interest in inclusive finance.