Explore VP, Operational Risk Management jobs and discover a critical senior leadership role at the heart of an organization's resilience and stability. A Vice President of Operational Risk Management is a strategic executive responsible for designing, implementing, and overseeing the framework that protects a company from losses stemming from failed internal processes, people, systems, or external events. This profession sits within the second line of defense, providing independent oversight and challenge to business units. Professionals in these roles are guardians of the firm's integrity, working to fortify it against threats like fraud, cyber-attacks, technology failures, and compliance breaches, thereby safeguarding financial health and reputation. The core responsibilities of a VP in this field are comprehensive. They typically involve establishing and governing the enterprise-wide operational risk management policy and methodology. This includes independently assessing and challenging the business's risk profile to ensure it aligns with the board's risk appetite. A key duty is to review the effectiveness of controls and risk mitigation strategies implemented by front-line teams, ensuring they are robust and actionable. These leaders are also responsible for developing and enhancing risk management tools, data analytics capabilities, and reporting infrastructure. They analyze loss data, key risk indicators, and scenario analyses to identify emerging trends and provide timely, actionable insights to senior management and stakeholders. Furthermore, they ensure all risk practices comply with evolving internal policies and external regulatory standards, often acting as the central point for regulatory engagement on operational risk matters. To succeed in VP, Operational Risk Management jobs, candidates generally need a strong blend of technical expertise and leadership acumen. Typically, a Bachelor's degree is required, with a Master's degree often preferred, coupled with 8-12 years of progressive experience in risk management, compliance, internal audit, or related control functions. A deep, practical understanding of operational risk frameworks (like COSO or Basel), regulatory landscapes, and various risk types (including cyber and third-party risk) is essential. The role demands advanced analytical skills to interpret complex data and translate it into strategic advice. Exceptional communication and influencing skills are paramount, as the VP must build strong partnerships across the organization while retaining the objectivity to challenge senior business leaders effectively. High integrity, professionalism, and the ability to navigate dynamic, high-pressure environments are fundamental traits for these pivotal positions. For those seeking to shape an organization's defensive strategy at the highest level, VP, Operational Risk Management jobs offer a challenging and impactful career path at the intersection of governance, finance, and strategic oversight.
