Head of Operational Risk

Head of Operational Risk | 6 Month / Edinburgh (Hybrid) | Inside IR35

Rate: 400

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced Head of Operational Risk to lead and strengthen the Bank's operational risk framework during a period of continued growth and regulatory focus.

Reporting into the Chief Risk Officer, this role will provide strategic leadership across operational risk management, ensuring the Bank maintains a robust control environment while supporting business objectives and regulatory requirements.

This is a high-profile position requiring deep financial services experience and a proven track record of implementing and embedding operational risk frameworks within regulated environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the operational risk function and act as the subject matter expert for operational risk across the Bank
• Maintain and enhance the operational risk framework, policies and governance processes
• Oversee risk identification, assessment, monitoring and reporting activities
• Ensure robust Risk and Control Self-Assessment (RCSA) processes are embedded across the organisation
• Manage operational risk events, issues and actions through to resolution
• Produce high-quality risk reporting for Executive Committees, Board Risk Committees and senior stakeholders
• Challenge and support business areas in the management of operational risks
• Lead scenario analysis, risk appetite monitoring and key risk indicator (KRI) reporting
• Support regulatory engagement and ensure compliance with relevant risk management expectations
• Work closely with Internal Audit, Compliance and business leaders to drive a strong risk culture
• Provide leadership and mentoring to risk team members where applicable

Essential Experience

• Significant operational risk experience within a regulated financial services environment
• Experience operating at Head of Risk, Senior Operational Risk Manager or equivalent level
• Strong understanding of operational risk frameworks, governance and risk management best practice
• Experience presenting risk matters to Executive and Board-level stakeholders
• Demonstrable experience of implementing and improving risk and control frameworks
• Strong knowledge of risk assessments, controls testing, incident management and risk reporting
• Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills

Desirable Experience

• Banking, investment banking, asset management or wider financial services experience
• Knowledge of PRA, FCA and broader UK regulatory expectations
• Experience within a development bank, public sector financial institution or investment organisation
• Relevant professional qualifications (IRM, ICA, PRM, FRM or equivalent)