Durban: Operational Risk Manager

Job Title: Operational Risk Manager Location: KwaZulu Natal, South Africa Position Summary: Are you ready to be the guardian of stability within the financial services industry. Youll be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to safeguarding the banks operations and reputation.You’ll oversee a comprehensive operational risk management framework, ensuring the bank remains resilient and compliant with South African Reserve Bank (SARB) regulations and international best practices. Your role will extend to critical risk classes including Business Continuity, Third-Party, Data, Model, Fraud, and Technology (cyber or information security) risks. Key Responsibilities: Operational Risk Management: Craft and implement a cutting-edge operational risk management framework that aligns with SARB regulations and international standards. Maintain a meticulous inventory of operational risk events and incidences. Develop and track insightful Key Risk Indicators (KRIs). Spearhead the Risk and Control Assessment program across the organization. Ensure thorough risk assessments are conducted for new initiatives or significant changes before launch. Business Continuity Planning (BCP): Lead the BCP process to ensure a seamless operation during and after disruptive events. Adapt and extend BCP to comply with new regulations on operational resilience. Third-Party Risk Management: Perform due diligence and continuous monitoring of third-party vendors. Mitigate risks associated with outsourcing and third-party engagements. Data and Model Risk Management: Implement robust data governance practices to guarantee the accuracy, completeness, and reliability of bank data. Oversee model risk management to ensure the dependability of the modeling processes. Fraud Risk Management: Develop innovative strategies to prevent, detect, and respond to fraudulent activities. Lead the charge on fraud risk management initiatives. Technology Risk Management: Oversee the technology risk management framework with a focus on cyber and information security. Collaborate with IT, cybersecurity, and business units to bolster the bank’s defences against technology-related threats. Reporting and Communication: Prepare and present comprehensive risk reports to the senior management, and relevant committees. Provide actionable insights into risk exposures, trends, and mitigation efforts. Training and Awareness: Conduct engaging training and awareness sessions to foster a risk-aware culture within the bank. Qualifications: Bachelors degree in Finance, Risk Management, Information Technology, or a related field. A Masters degree or professional certifications (e.g., CISA, CRISC, FRM) is highly desirable. Minimum of 5 years experience in operational risk management within the banking or financial services industry. Expertise in managing Business Continuity, Third-Party, Data, Model, Fraud, and Technology risks. Deep knowledge of SARB regulations, Basel III, and other relevant international risk management standards. Strong analytical, organizational, and leadership skills, with the ability to juggle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Stellar communication and interpersonal skills, capable of working effectively with all levels of the organisation and external stakeholders.