Technology Staffers Receive FINRA’s Award of Distinction Honors

Each Spring, FINRA CEO Robert Cook announces the recipients of the FINRA Award of Distinction. The Award of Distinction recognizes a select group of exceptional performers who have significantly influenced or impacted one or more of FINRA’s strategic enterprise goals or key objectives through their sustained efforts. This year, 18 staff members were selected to receive the award, including four members from FINRA Technology.

“The Award of Distinction is, what I would consider... our highest honor,” said Rainia Washington, Chief Human Resources Officer at FINRA, “and these are the folks [who] have... taken performance and achievement to the next level. It’s an opportunity to bring teams together and step back and say, ‘job well done!’”

Steve Randich with Stephan Diamond

Stephen Diamond, Senior Director of Technology supporting the Consolidated Audit Trail (CAT) was recognized for running his dedicated Technology group. In 2023, Stephen inherited significant Customer and Account Information System (CAIS) scope under CAT. 

“The highlight, other than the awards dinner, is simply meeting and networking with FINRA coworkers you might never meet,” said Stephen. “We spent two days together, and that is really memorable.”

Bharadwaj (Braddy) Aryasomayajula, Associate Director and Lead Developer in Test, was recognized for his grassroots support on CAIS.

Steve Randich with Bharadwaj Aryasomayajula

“I led the assurance team of 20 engineers assisting in successful completion of historic reload,” said Braddy, noting this was the successful delivery of an important milestone for the project. 

“My favorite part of it was receiving the award from Steve Randich (FINRA’s CIO),” he said, noting that he appreciated the CIO’s thoughtful and personal involvement. “I equally loved the management discussion sessions with Executive leadership on various topics like Blockchain and Market Regulation.”

Steve Randich with Lisa Broe

Lisa Broe, Director of Product Management, was recognized for playing a key role in the scoping effort for the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System Modernization, which secured a multi-year contract with the Conference of State Bank Supervisors to modernize the existing system.

“We are now engaged in a multi-year effort to modernize significant pieces of system functionality to provide an improved user experience, reduce administrative and operational costs for users, and update the underlying technology,” explained Lisa.

Steve Randich with Nazzie Sayani

“I appreciated the recognition from the company. I enjoyed spending time with other recipients – whether it was catching up with an old colleague, finally putting a face to a name that I’ve been hearing for years, or meeting someone brand new – getting the time to socialize and network with other employees with similar drive and goals was great. The round table discussions were especially insightful. During a discussion on talent development, many of us were able to voice concerns and receive thoughtful and actionable feedback from both executive leadership and colleagues.”

“I was nominated on behalf of the Diversity Leadership Committee who, as a body, recognized all of the impact I have had on increasing FINRA’s diversity, equity and inclusion capabilities,” said Nazzie Sayani, Program Manager of Technology Internal Communications and is the diversity, equity and inclusion workstream lead for FINRA Technology.

“It was an incredible experience to have been recognized in such a personal, intimate gathering,” Nazzie said. “I had wonderful conversations and working sessions with the Management Committee members, but what I enjoyed most was meeting the fellow recipients and getting to know them. This dynamic group was so inspiring - not just for all that they have achieved here at FINRA, but also for who they are and how they show up in their everyday lives. I left feeling so energized and inspired. We keep conversation going now on a Teams channel between all the 2024 AOD recipients - and look forward to meeting up at a reunion!”

The Award of Distinction program was established approximately 13 years ago. To be considered for the award, nominees must demonstrate a commitment to FINRA's values (Collaboration, Expertise, Innovation and Responsibility) and culture and contribute to the advancement of FINRA's mission either through a leadership or supporting role.