Manager - Risk
Lead implementation and management of the enterprise risk management framework for First Answer Custody FZE (Chainberg), covering operational, regulatory, technology, cyber, vendor, financial, and third-party risks. Ensure compliance with VARA requirements, maintain risk governance artifacts, support risk assessments and resilience activities, monitor risk indicators, prepare reports, and contribute to regulatory filings.
Responsibilities
- Support implementation of the Risk Management Framework in line with VARA requirements.
- Maintain the Risk Appetite Statement, Risk Register, and Risk Control Self-Assessments.
- Design and document risk policies, procedures, and internal controls.
- Identify and assess operational, cyber, regulatory, vendor, financial, and third-party risks.
- Conduct risk reviews for new products, services, and geographies.
- Support scenario analysis, stress testing, and business continuity planning.
- Monitor key risk indicators, control effectiveness, and early warning signals.
- Prepare periodic risk reports for senior management and the Board Risk Committee.
- Support audits, regulatory inspections, and VARA submissions.
- Collaborate with Compliance, Product, Technology, Legal, and Operations.
- Lead RCSA workshops and issue remediation tracking.
- Advise business units on emerging risks and mitigation strategies.
- Implement, test, and document obligations under the VARA Risk Management Rulebook.
- Contribute to VARA regulatory filings and reports.
Requirements
- 7–10 years of experience in enterprise risk management, operational risk, or internal controls in financial services, fintech, or digital asset firms.
- Strong understanding of the UAE regulatory environment; VARA, ADGM, or DFSA experience is highly desirable.
- Knowledge of ISO 31000, COSO ERM, governance principles, and control testing.
- Digital asset or technology risk background is a strong advantage.
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Finance, Risk, Business, or a related field.
- FRM, IRM, or CRISC certifications are preferred.