A data scientist and generative AI specialist with experience in the health care, biotechnology, and banking industries, Etienne N. Ndedi is currently a data scientist with Anti-Money Laundering (AML). Etienne N. Ndedi previously worked as a data scientist for several other companies, including IQVIA and Gilead Sciences.
A graduate of the University of California, Berkeley with a master’s degree in information and data science with a focus on Generative AI, Mr. Ndedi is skilled in three programming languages, machine learning, deep learning, and generative AI. In his previous roles, he led data collection, processing, and engineering, as well as the implementation of technology-based solutions for various purposes.
In addition to a master’s degree in information and data science, Mr. Ndedi holds a master’s in econometrics, a program management certificate from Stanford University, and a certificate in algorithm and data structures from Carnegie Mellon University. In his free time, he is a soccer fan and supports Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Real Madrid.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
My day begins at 6 a.m. with meditation, followed by tuning in to world news, and then a deep dive into the alignment of my work process area’s tasks with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) corporate initiatives that have been prioritized by leadership. Anti-Money Laundering requires an open mind, teamwork, and discipline to name just a few must-haves.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I bring ideas to life through a thinking process that involves an open mind that includes incorporating tools that are available to me such as teamwork, rigorous conceptualization, my own wall-based processing, and testing. In risk, an “idea” is usually a thesis about a criminal pattern. I conceptualize the idea first, consult with others, make an inventory of the tools at my disposal, find reliable data, do some exploration, and run theoretically sound processes that will be tested in a quest for widespread acceptance
What’s one trend that excites you?
The integration of AI in AML. We are reaching a point where large language models (LLMs) are reading investigators’ narrative, the “who, what, where, when, how” of transactions, as we strive to identify emerging criminal patterns.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
Maintaining a “zero inbox” policy and staying engaged.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Care about others, be curious, keep an open mind, and make the world your canvas.
Tell us something you believe that almost nobody agrees with you on.
As a former economist, I believe that there wouldn’t be a north and south demarcation and migratory crises if pricing was dictated more by natural resource owners and less by markets. Not all pests expire after a chemical application; some will migrate elsewhere. Humans are no different.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
Meditation and regular exercise.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
I step away from the screens, go on a spiritual journey, or go exercise.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
Never stop learning.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
Early on in my career, I relied on my education, hard work, and burning the midnight oil to get things done. Unfortunately, that did not get me where I wanted to be. I quickly realized that companies are networks. Consequently, growing my emotional intelligence became a top priority so I could better understand my environment and learn about the common currencies, which help me build great relationships to get things done.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
Creativity, hard work, and relationships in a great environment do the trick.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
Microsoft Outlook to communicate and stay connected.
What is the best $100 you recently spent? What and why?
I recently joined the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital circle of givers. It was my first $100 and certainly not the last. St Jude Hospital is that sanctuary for our little ones who are facing cancer. We should all help.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
The Bible. There is no better book for wisdom and intelligence.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
Sinners. It’s a movie that blends entertainment, creativity, and a sense of history for an unforgettable moment of needed reflection.
Key learnings
- Curiosity and an open mind are intrinsic to professional development and growth.
- Conceptualization can facilitate understanding for better data-driven decision making.
- Emotional intelligence is key to knowing others and getting things done.