Article

Operational Resilience Enters the Age of Demonstrable Exit Readiness

Operational resilience is entering a new phase where regulatory expectations extend beyond documentation to demonstrable proof of exit readiness. Drawing on new research from Escode and CeFPro, this article highlights a growing gap between perceived compliance and actual preparedness, with many firms confident in policy frameworks but far fewer able to evidence viable stressed exit strategies. Insights from Julie Antonelli underline a fundamental shift: regulators now expect real-world testing, scenario validation, and clear ownership of third-party risk. As firms navigate complex, multi-layered supplier ecosystems, challenges around accountability, visibility, and execution continue to hinder progress. With frameworks such as DORA raising the bar globally, organizations must move beyond assessment and into active testing. Demonstrating operational resilience now requires continuous validation, structured drills, and practical mechanisms to prove that exit strategies can function under stress.