Operational Risk Head

Operational Risk Head page is loaded Operational Risk Headlocations: Johannesburgtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Todaytime left to apply: End Date: March 31, 2026 (7 days left to apply)job requisition id: R48004# Job Description We are looking for an experienced Head of Operational Risk to lead and embed a robust operational risk and governance framework across the business. This role plays a critical part in shaping risk strategy, strengthening controls, and enabling sustainable growth by proactively managing non financial risks across transact, lend and payments environments. You will partner closely with executive leadership, Group risk functions and key stakeholders to drive a strong risk aware culture, ensure regulatory alignment, and lead a high performing risk team. What you will be responsible for: Operational Risk & Governance Develop and implement the operational risk strategy in line with business and Group objectives. Provide expert input into corporate governance, ethics and policy frameworks, ensuring alignment to non financial risk requirements. Participate in Group risk forums and cascade key insights across the organisation. Maintain up to date knowledge of local and global risk trends, legislation and industry best practice. Risk Management & Oversight Oversee the implementation of operational risk policies aligned to Group frameworks. Interpret and apply policies to drive effective risk mitigation and control design. Manage and monitor SLAs for the risk function to ensure consistent, high quality delivery. Develop meaningful KPIs to measure risk outcomes and organisational impact. Escalate material and emerging risks to EXCO, Group and relevant governance committees. Drive a strong risk aware culture through awareness, engagement and behaviour shaping initiatives. Operational Excellence & Continuous Improvement Identify complex, interconnected risks and develop innovative, fit for purpose solutions. Drive strategic initiatives, platform integration and change management across operations. Leverage Group capabilities to optimise processes, enhance controls and improve efficiencies. Ensure adherence to operational policies, procedures and control frameworks. Stakeholder Engagement & Thought Leadership Build and maintain strong collaborative relationships across business units and Group functions. Communicate risk insights, policy changes and progress against strategic objectives to senior stakeholders. Represent the organisation in specialist communities and industry forums. Provide forward thinking, trusted risk advice to executives and key decision makers. People Leadership Lead, coach and develop a high performing operational risk team. Build organisational capability through mentoring, development and succession planning. Role model leadership behaviours aligned to organisational values. What you will bring: Postgraduate degree in Finance, Risk or Business, or CA (SA). 5+ years' experience in a risk management or similar role. Minimum 3 years' leadership experience in enterprise and/or operational risk within financial services. Proven experience across transact, lending and payments flows. Strong understanding of banking regulations, operational risk frameworks and corporate governance. Experience engaging with regulators, audit committees and executive governance structures. Ability to influence at executive level and lead complex, cross functional change initiatives. IT risk management experience will be a strong advantage. Important Closing Date Note # Take note that applications will not be accepted on the below date and onwards, kindly submit applications ahead of the closing date indicated below. 31/03/26All appointments will be made in line with FirstRand Group's Employment Equity plan. The Bank supports the recruitment and advancement of individuals with disabilities. In order for us to fulfill this purpose, candidates can disclose their disability information on a voluntary basis. The Bank will keep this information confidential unless we are required by law to disclose this information to other parties.Introduce yourself to our recruiters and we will get in touch if there's a role that seems like a good match.Should you have any queries, please log it via .