Head of Credit Risk Policy and Credit Assurance at Absa Group Limited (Absa)

Job Summary

• The Head of Credit Risk Policy and Credit Assurance will be responsible for leading the development, implementation, and maintenance of credit risk policies in alignment with Absa Bank’s Enterprise Risk Management Framework. This role will also oversee the credit assurance function, ensuring effective implementation of policies, frameworks, and standards across the group. The successful candidate will also be responsible for conducting quality assurance work and implementing an effective combined assurance plan for Group Credit on an annual basis.

Job Description

Accountability: Policy Development and Implementation

• Draft, implement, and maintain Credit Risk Policies, Standards, Mandates and Credit Committee Terms of References in accordance with regulatory requirements and the group’s Enterprise Risk Management Framework.
• Ensure policies are aligned with the bank’s strategic objectives and risk appetite.

Accountability: Credit Assurance Function

• Lead the independent credit assurance function to assess the effectiveness of credit risk policies and frameworks.
•  Conduct regular reviews and assessments to ensure compliance with established standards and guidelines.
•  Identify areas for improvement and recommend enhancements to credit risk management practices.

Accountability: Quality Assurance

• Perform quality assurance work as required, ensuring that credit risk assessments and decisions are made in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Develop and implement quality assurance frameworks to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of credit risk management processes.

Accountability: Combined Assurance Plan

• Design and implement an effective combined assurance plan for credit on an annual basis, integrating inputs from various assurance providers.
• Collaborate with internal audit, compliance, and other stakeholders to ensure comprehensive coverage of credit risk assurance activities.

Accountability: Stakeholder Engagement

• Engage with senior management, risk committees, and other stakeholders to communicate credit risk policies and assurance findings.
• Provide guidance and support to business units in the implementation of credit risk policies and frameworks.

Accountability: Regulatory Compliance

• Stay informed of regulatory developments and industry best practices related to credit risk management.
• Ensure that credit risk policies and practices comply with relevant regulations and standards.

Accountability: Team Leadership

• Lead and develop a high-performing team within the Credit Policy and Credit Assurance function.
•  Foster a culture of risk awareness and compliance throughout the organization.

Accountability: Training and Awareness

• The Head of Credit Policies and Assurance is also responsible for promoting a risk-aware culture within the bank. This includes providing training and awareness programs to employees on risk management and assurance practice.

Preferred Experience

• Leading strategic change
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in credit risk management, policy development, or assurance functions within the banking or financial services industry.
• Strong understanding of credit risk frameworks, regulatory requirements, and best practices.
• Proven experience in leading teams and managing cross-functional projects.

Education

• Bachelor`s Degrees and Advanced Diplomas: Business, Commerce and Management Studies (Required)