Karen Pimentel
About Karen Pimentel
Karen Pimentel is a Principal ERM Analyst at Patelco Credit Union, with extensive experience in operational risk management across various financial institutions. Her career spans over two decades, including roles at Bank of the West, MUFG, and East West Bank, where she developed expertise in risk assessments, control monitoring, and third-party risk management.
Current Role at Patelco Credit Union
Karen Pimentel serves as the Principal ERM Analyst at Patelco Credit Union since 2022. In this role, she focuses on enterprise risk management, leveraging her extensive background in operational risk analysis. Her responsibilities include identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks across the organization, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and internal policies.
Previous Experience at Bank of the West
Prior to her current position, Pimentel worked at Bank of the West as the VP Principal Operational Risk Analyst from 2017 to 2022. During her five years there, she played a significant role in enhancing the bank's operational risk framework and contributed to various risk management initiatives.
Expertise in Risk Management
Pimentel possesses specialized knowledge in Third Party Risk and the Bank Secrecy Act. She has significant experience in Issues Management and Action Plans within the banking industry. Her expertise extends to credible challenge of Risk and Control Self-Assessments (RCSA), control monitoring, and Key Risk Indicators (KRI's).
Educational Background
Karen Pimentel studied at James A. Garfield High School and furthered her education at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM). Her educational background has contributed to her analytical skills and understanding of risk management in the financial sector.
Comprehensive Work History
Pimentel has a diverse work history in the banking industry, having held various positions that include AVP Operational Risk Management Analyst and AVP Vendor Risk Analyst at MUFG, Risk Management Supervisor at UMS Banking, and Vice President at East West Bank. Her career spans over two decades, with roles focusing on risk analysis, operational risk, and vendor management.