A Risk and Controls Operations Head is a senior leadership role critical to the integrity and stability of major financial institutions and large corporations. Professionals in these high-impact jobs are the architects and guardians of the organization's internal control environment, tasked with building a resilient defense against operational, financial, and compliance risks. This position sits at the strategic intersection of risk management, business operations, and regulatory adherence, requiring a unique blend of deep technical expertise and influential leadership. Typically, individuals in these roles are responsible for the end-to-end oversight of the control framework. This involves designing, implementing, monitoring, and continuously improving the suite of controls that mitigate risks across business processes. A core duty is managing the organization's control assessment program, often involving regular management control attestations and quality assurance reviews. They lead the identification and evaluation of control deficiencies, oversee the comprehensive management of issues from discovery through to sustainable remediation, and ensure rigorous governance reporting that provides clear visibility into the control landscape to senior management and committees. Furthermore, they are accountable for driving the execution of enterprise-wide risk management frameworks and ensuring adherence to internal policies and external regulatory standards. The skill set required for these executive-level jobs is both broad and deep. Extensive experience—often 10-15 years—in operational risk, compliance, internal audit, or a directly related control function within a complex industry, particularly financial services, is a fundamental prerequisite. Candidates must possess an expert ability to identify, measure, and manage key risks and controls, coupled with strong analytical skills to dissect complex processes. A strategic mindset is essential for seeing the big picture while maintaining meticulous attention to critical details. Leadership and influence are paramount, as the role requires driving change and embedding a strong risk culture across various business units without direct authority, often through persuasion and collaboration. Excellent communication and presentation skills are non-negotiable for effectively influencing executive audiences and articulating complex risk concepts. A proven track record in leading control-related projects and process improvement initiatives is also highly valued. Ultimately, a Risk and Controls Operations Head is a results-oriented leader who ensures that the organization's operations are not only efficient but also secure, controlled, and compliant. For seasoned risk professionals seeking to shape an organization's fundamental resilience and protect its assets and reputation, these jobs represent a pinnacle of strategic responsibility and impact.
