Paulette Mullings Bradnock was a Jamaican-born chief audit executive at the Bank of New York Mellon, one of the largest and most prestigious financial institutions in the world. She was also a former police officer, a social activist, and a proud alumna of Excelsior High School in Kingston. She died from COVID-19 complications on her birthday, September 19, 2022, while on a visit to Jamaica. Her death has shocked and saddened many people who knew her personally and professionally, as well as those who admired her achievements and contributions.
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A Brilliant Career in Banking
Bradnock had a remarkable career in banking, spanning over three decades. She joined BNY Mellon in 2015 as the chief audit executive, overseeing a team of 380 auditors and leading various initiatives to modernize and improve the audit function. According to American Banker, a banking trade publication, she was one of the most powerful women to watch in American banking, and an innovator who reimagined all aspects of the audit cycle.
One of her notable achievements was the adoption of robotic process automation (RPA) to perform audit testing and automate routine administrative tasks. This enabled her team to handle large volumes of data without adding more staff, and to focus on more value-added activities. She also developed a specialized internal audit workflow system and launched an internal audit center of excellence in Poland.
Bradnock was not only a leader in her field, but also a mentor and a role model for many aspiring auditors. She was passionate about promoting diversity and inclusion in the banking industry, and gave preference to applicants from underrepresented groups when filling internship and full-time positions.
A Devoted Daughter of Jamaica
Bradnock was born in Jamaica and attended Excelsior High School, where she excelled academically and socially. She later migrated to the United States, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in accounting from Queens College (City University of New York) and her master’s degree in business administration from Fordham University.
Despite living abroad, Bradnock never forgot her roots and maintained strong ties with her homeland. She served as the president for the New York Chapter of the Excelsior Alumni Association and spearheaded various fundraisers for the advancement of her alma mater. She also donated a scholarship to Excelsior High School.
Bradnock was also involved in several charitable and cultural organizations, such as the Alvin Ailey Dance Company and the American Foundation for The University of the West Indies. She was an avid supporter of Jamaican arts, music, and cuisine, and often visited the island to enjoy its beauty and hospitality.
A Tragic End to a Celebrated Life
Bradnock arrived in Jamaica a week before her birthday for a visit and at some point tested positive for COVID-19. Attempts to airlift her back to the United States for treatment did not materialize and she succumbed at the Kingston Public Hospital.
Her death has left a void in the hearts of many who loved and respected her. Her husband Dr. Howard Bradnock, former president of the Ardenne Alumni Association (New York chapter), and her children Sean, Taylor, and Reginald; her mother Edith Crooks; her brother Lynval; and other siblings, relatives, and friends are mourning her loss.
Her colleagues at BNY Mellon have also expressed their grief and condolences. Todd Gibbons, CEO of BNY Mellon, said in a statement: “Paulette was an exceptional leader who made significant contributions to our company and our industry. She was a valued member of our executive committee and a trusted advisor to me and many others. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her”.
The Jamaican community in New York and elsewhere has also paid tribute to Bradnock as one of their own. Althea Robinson, her Excelsior schoolmate, said: “The sudden loss is devastating. Paulette had a passionate vibrancy for everything she did, and she will be greatly missed” Noelene Johnson, another longtime friend for decades, lamented: “She was suc a beautiful person inside and out”.
Paulette Mullings Bradnock cause of death was a tragic outcome of a global pandemic that has claimed millions of lives. She was a woman of excellence who rose to the top of her profession while staying true to her heritage. She was an inspiration to many who aspire to make a difference in the world. She will be remembered as a trailblazer, a philanthropist, and a friend.
