Chief Risk Officer at Rise Recruiting Agency

• The Chief Risk Officer (CRO) will lead the development and implementation of effective risk management, legal, and compliance frameworks. This role partners with senior stakeholders to balance risk and reward, protect the organisation’s reputation, and ensure sustainable business growth.

Job Description
Risk, Legal & Compliance Leadership

• Lead the organisation’s risk, solvency, and capital management strategies.
• Oversee compliance, market conduct, regulatory complaints, and governance frameworks.
• Ensure the business operates within defined risk appetite and complies with relevant legislation and industry best practices.
• Develop and embed sustainability and corporate governance strategies.
• Oversee risk reporting, monitoring, and the execution of Own Risk and Solvency Assessment (ORSA) processes.
• Manage and mature the organisation’s risk control and compliance frameworks.
• Conduct stress testing, scenario analysis, and forward-looking projections to support strategic planning.
• Establish a strong risk culture through education, awareness, and effective communication.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain trusted relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including regulators and industry bodies.
• Advise the Board, Audit, and Risk Committees on all matters related to risk and regulatory compliance.
• Provide actionable insights and guidance to influence business decisions.
• Drive initiatives that promote fair treatment and service excellence for clients.

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, coach, and develop the Legal, Risk, and Compliance teams to achieve strategic objectives.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Manage team performance, development plans, and succession strategies.
• Encourage innovation, agility, and excellence within the team.

Financial Oversight

• Manage the department’s budget and ensure compliance with financial regulations.
• Identify opportunities to improve cost efficiency and operational effectiveness.
• Address and report any financial non-compliance or irregularities.

Job Requirements

Education & Qualifications

• Postgraduate degree in Risk Management, Compliance, Legal, Actuarial Science, or Accounting (FASSA or CA(SA) advantageous).
• Registration with the Institute of Risk Management South Africa (IRMSA) preferred.

Experience

• 10–12 years’ experience in risk management or compliance, ideally within financial services or insurance.
• Minimum 5–8 years in senior management or executive leadership.
• Experience as a Head of a Control Function highly advantageous.

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strategic and analytical thinker with strong business acumen.
• Excellent leadership and stakeholder management capabilities.
• Skilled in risk analysis, governance, and compliance frameworks.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Proven ability to manage teams and drive organisational change.