Head of Risk

J. Awan & Partners

Job Description

Roles & Responsibilities

Desired Candidate Profile

Job Title: Head of Risk br> Reports to: Board of Directorsbr> Role: Full time br> Location: Abu Dhabibr> Company Details br> Our client is a financial institution licensed to provide a comprehensive range of banking products and services. Built on a foundation of resilience and innovation, it has grown into a trusted provider of financial solutions for individuals, businesses, and institutions. The organisation is deeply committed to financial inclusion, social responsibility, and aligning with global best practices in financial services and technology.br> Job Purpose br> The Head of Risk is responsible for establishing and leading the bank s risk management framework to ensure sound risk governance, regulatory compliance, and long-term financial sustainability in accordance with FSRA s regulatory standards. The role s primary purpose is to identify, assess, monitor, and mitigate all categories of risk including credit, market, liquidity, operational, conduct, compliance, and strategic risks while fostering a strong risk culture across the organization.br> This position plays a critical role in safeguarding the bank s assets, reputation, and stakeholders by embedding a robust risk management strategy aligned with the bank s overall business objectives. The Head of Risk acts as an independent advisor to the Board of Directors and senior management, ensuring that all risks are clearly articulated, understood, and effectively managed within the risk appetite and tolerance approved by the Board.

Skills and Experience (essential to any successful application) Minimum 15 years of progressive risk management experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role within a regulated financial institution. Demonstrated experience in enterprise-wide risk management, covering credit, market, liquidity, operational, and regulatory risk. Strong track record of building and leading risk governance frameworks in line with ADGM/FSRA requirements, as well as international standards (e.g., Basel III/IV). Proven ability to engage with regulators (FSRA, Central Banks, international regulators) and represent the bank at supervisory reviews, inspections, and regulatory meetings. Exposure to product risk assessments for wholesale, retail, investment banking, and digital banking offerings.

Skills Deep understanding of ADGM and FSRA regulatory frameworks, including prudential requirements, and risk-based supervision. Proficiency in risk modelling, stress testing, ICAAP, IRAP, and capital adequacy frameworks. Advanced knowledge of governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) systems and risk reporting tools. Strong financial and analytical skills, with the ability to assess quantitative and qualitative risks. Knowledge of emerging risks such as fintech, cyber, Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence and challenge at Board and Executive Committee level. Exceptional stakeholder management skills, capable of balancing regulatory expectations, shareholder priorities, and business growth. Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to present complex risk concepts in a clear and concise manner. High level of integrity, independence, and judgment, essential for maintaining robust risk oversight. Experience developing risk-aware culture across the organization.

Qualifications Bachelor s degree in Finance, Economics, Risk Management, or a related discipline; Professional certifications such as FRM (Financial Risk Manager), PRM (Professional Risk Manager), CFA, or equivalent strongly preferred. Strong knowledge of Basel standards, IRAP and ICAAP frameworks.