Head of Financial Risk (Re-advertisement) at Equity Bank Kenya

The role of the Head of Financial Risk is to oversee and manage the financial risk management function within the bank. He/ She will help to identify, assess, and manage various financial risks that may impact on the bank’s financial stability and performance. The Head of Financial Risk is responsible for developing risk management strategies, implementing risk frameworks, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Risk Management Strategy: Develop and implement the overall financial risk management strategy aligned with the organization's goals and risk appetite. Identify and assess financial risks, such as credit risk, liquidity risk, market risk, and develop appropriate risk mitigation strategies.
• Risk Framework and Policies: Establish and maintain a robust risk management framework and policies that align with industry best practices and regulatory requirements. Ensure the framework is effectively communicated and implemented throughout the bank.
• Regularly review and update risk policies to reflect changing business and regulatory environments.
• Risk Identification and Assessment: Identify, assess, and monitor financial risks across Equity Bank Kenya Limited (EBKL). Conduct risk assessments to evaluate the potential impact and likelihood of risks materializing. Implement risk measurement techniques, such as stress testing, scenario analysis, and sensitivity analysis, to quantify risks and inform risk management decisions.
• Risk Reporting: Prepare and present regular risk reports to senior management and the board of directors. Communicate key risk metrics, trends, and emerging risks. Provide recommendations for risk mitigation strategies and necessary actions to ensure effective risk management.
• Regulatory Compliance: Stay up-to-updated on relevant regulatory requirements and ensure EBKL’s compliance with risk management regulations. Monitor regulatory changes and assess their impact on the bank's risk profile. Coordinate with compliance teams to ensure timely implementation of risk-related regulatory changes.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with internal stakeholders, including senior management, business units, risk functions, and compliance teams, to gather necessary information and ensure effective risk management.
• Engage with external stakeholders, such as auditors, regulators, and industry associations, to stay informed about best practices and industry trends.
• Financial Risk Committee and Governance: Participate in existing risk governance structures. Provide leadership and guidance to risk committees, ensuring effective risk oversight and decision-making. Collaborate with other governance functions, such as Audit or Compliance, to ensure a coordinated approach to risk management.

Qualifications

Qualifications And Experience

• Bachelor's degree in finance, economics, risk management, or a related field. Advanced degrees or professional certifications (such as FRM or PRM) are preferred.
• Extensive experience in financial risk management, risk analysis, or related roles within a financial institution or corporate environment. Previous experience in a leadership or management role is required.
• In-depth knowledge of financial risk management principles, practices, and regulatory requirements.
• Strong understanding of various financial risks, including credit risk, liquidity risk, & market risk