BankB & BDO: towards successful DORA implementation

The power of pragmatism and expertise in regulation

BankB is Belgium’s smallest bank with a unique position in the market. With a traditional banking model, the bank attracts deposits through savings books and term accounts, and uses these funds to provide tailored mortgage loans.  

As a niche player, BankB focuses specifically on more complex cases and a solution-oriented approach for clients who cannot find help from large banks. Led by a passionate team, BankB offers customisation where standard solutions are not enough. 

The collaboration between BankB and BDO started from a concrete need: navigating the growing regulatory environment in the financial sector, with a specific focus on DORA (Digital Operational Resilience Act) and the EBA (European Banking Authority) guidelines on outsourcing. 

Navigating complex regulations

In early 2025, DORA, a European legislation around IT risk management and digital operational resilience, officially entered into force. BankB was looking for a partner with in-depth industry knowledge and experience for the practical implementation of this complex regulation. Patrick Herwegh, Chief Information Officer at BankB, explains: ‘We were looking for a partner with knowledge of the legal texts to translate them into procedures and policies tailored to our bank. And one that also does this for multiple parties, so we can take best practices from other financial institutions.’ 

A tailor-made partnership

BDO experts are frequently physically present at BankB, ensuring close integration into the organisation for this partnership. ‘To me, it almost feels like they are an addition to the team, as internal colleagues', Kimberly Vergucht, Head of Risk, notes. ‘There is a strong relationship and very open communication.’ 

A key aspect of the project was the alignment between the three lines of defence within the bank. Kimberly explains: ‘There are various building blocks within DORA. One of these is ICT risk management, which does not mean that it is only the responsibility of the second line of defence. Risk management must be incorporated by all lines, and especially management, with different roles for each line.’ 

Together with partners like BDO, we can continue to build a bank that not only complies with all regulations, but more importantly, makes a difference for clients with non-standard needs.

Patrick HerweghChief Information Officer at BankB

Pragmatism and trust as a basis

According to BankB, what makes the partnership with BDO special is the pragmatic approach and mutual trust. ‘We generally do not make such a big difference between internal and external co-workers', says Patrick. ‘We are very approachable by nature, and that is extended to the consultants we work with.’

The success of the partnership is also evidenced by the fact that BDO regularly gives presentations to BankB’s Executive Committee and Board of Directors. ‘That speaks to the trust we have and that we see BDO as a partner or part of the organisation rather than an external consultant’, Patrick emphasises. 

BankB also appreciates the transparency and quality assurance at BDO. ‘With other consultants, you often see a difference between who gives the pitch and who actually executes the project’, says Patrick. ‘BDO has been transparent about the colleagues working on the project since the beginning. In addition, the Partner in question also carries out quality checks on all deliverables and actively mentors the team, which builds trust.’

Building the future

BankB continues to work towards its mission of providing tailor-made solutions in the banking sector thanks to BDO’s expertise. With the successful implementation of DORA, the bank is now even better prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future, with a solid foundation in regulation and risk management.