Head of Risk & Compliance (HR & C/06/26)
We are seeking a seasoned Head of Risk & Compliance to oversee our organization’s risk management framework and ensure adherence to regulatory standards. The ideal candidate will lead the development and implementation of robust compliance policies, conduct risk assessments, and provide strategic guidance to mitigate potential threats. Key responsibilities include managing regulatory reporting, liaising with external stakeholders, and fostering a culture of compliance across all business units. The role requires a proven track record in risk management, deep knowledge of relevant regulations, and strong leadership skills to drive organizational integrity and resilience.
The position will report functionally to the Board of Directors (BoD) and administratively to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), with primary accountability for identifying, evaluating, assessing, monitoring, and reporting all material risks in accordance with the Bank’s mission, regulatory obligations, and approved Risk Appetite Statement (RAS). Additionally, the role will require demonstrating spiritual leadership and upholding ethical conduct to reflect the Bank’s Christian identity.
Oversee a comprehensive range of responsibilities encompassing strategic planning, operational execution, and performance monitoring to ensure organizational objectives are met efficiently and effectively. Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to align departmental goals with broader company strategies, fostering a cohesive and productive work environment. Develop and implement policies, procedures, and best practices to enhance operational efficiency, compliance, and risk management across all business functions. Prepare and present detailed reports on key performance indicators, financial metrics, and project milestones to senior leadership, facilitating informed decision-making and continuous improvement. Manage and mentor a team of professionals, providing guidance, support, and development opportunities to cultivate high-performing talent and drive collective success. Ensure adherence to industry regulations, legal requirements, and ethical standards, maintaining the integrity and reputation of the organization. Identify opportunities for innovation, process optimization, and cost reduction to enhance competitiveness and sustainability in the marketplace.
Head oversight of the Risk Management Department, with responsibility for directing, guiding, and enhancing team performance while establishing clear objectives and ensuring their successful attainment.
Act as a primary consultant to the CEO, Executive Leadership, and Board of Directors regarding matters pertaining to risk management.
Deliver precise, timely, and audience-aligned risk reports to the Board of Directors and Senior Management, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and compliance standards.
Regulatory bodies, risk owners, and management personnel oversee operations to ensure compliance and mitigate potential risks.
Develop and execute the Bank’s Enterprise Risk Management Framework, ensuring alignment with strategic goals, regulatory requirements, and HOPE International standards through meticulous planning, design, and implementation.
Guarantee that the Bank adheres fully to all statutory obligations, regulatory frameworks, official directives, and prudential standards as prescribed by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) and other governing bodies.
Monitor regulatory developments and emerging compliance requirements, providing strategic guidance to the CEO and Board Committees regarding their implications and necessary actions to ensure adherence.
Collaborate with Information Technology and Digital Banking teams to systematically identify, evaluate, assess, and mitigate IT and digital risks—such as cybersecurity threats, system reliability concerns, data protection vulnerabilities, technology resilience gaps, and continuity risks in digital services—thereby safeguarding secure, stable, and uninterrupted banking operations.
Collaborate with every business unit and support function to proactively recognize, evaluate, track, and address financial and operational risks throughout the Bank, such as process inefficiencies, internal control deficiencies, fraud vulnerabilities, service delivery shortcomings, and workforce-related concerns, thereby enhancing operational resilience, ensuring regulatory adherence, and maintaining consistent customer service standards.
Drive a robust culture of compliance and ethical behavior throughout the Bank by implementing targeted training initiatives, fostering transparent communication channels, and maintaining ongoing engagement with stakeholders.
Holds a relevant bachelor’s degree or higher in a specialized field, supplemented by a minimum of [X] years of progressive professional experience. Demonstrates proficiency in [specific skills, tools, or methodologies], with a proven ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical challenges. Exhibits strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, ensuring effective collaboration in multidisciplinary environments. Maintains up-to-date expertise through continuous learning and industry engagement. Familiarity with [specific regulations, standards, or technologies] is strongly preferred.
A bachelor’s degree in Risk Management, Finance, Economics, Business Administration, Accounting, Statistics, or a closely related discipline is required for this role.
A Master’s Degree and/or professional certifications like FRM, RISC, CFE, or CPA/ARCA are highly valued.
A minimum of 8–10 years of progressive experience in risk management, internal audit, compliance, or financial management is required, ideally within a regulated financial institution. At least five of these years should have been spent in a Senior Leadership or Managerial capacity.
Must possess comprehensive expertise in Enterprise Risk Management frameworks, specifically COST and ISO 31000.
Revise the paragraph to maintain all original details while enhancing clarity and professionalism:
The candidate must possess comprehensive expertise in Basel II and Basel III regulatory requirements, along with proficiency in implementing and managing Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery frameworks.
Credit risk evaluation and portfolio analysis are integral components of this role, along with operational risk management tools such as Risk and Control Self-Assessment (ROSA).
KAI systems, alongside loss event databases, and regulatory frameworks governing microfinance and banking operations in Kenya are essential areas of expertise.
Proven experience collaborating with regulatory bodies, external auditors, and Board committees is essential.
Requires strong expertise in generating risk reports, analyzing data, and operating risk management systems such as Audit Board, risk dashboards, and business intelligence tools.
Demonstrates strong leadership qualities and behavioral competencies required to drive team performance and organizational success, including effective communication, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. Must exhibit adaptability, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive work environment. Responsibilities include guiding teams, resolving conflicts, and inspiring collaboration to achieve strategic goals. Requires experience in leadership roles, with a proven ability to influence and motivate others while maintaining high ethical standards and professionalism.
Demonstrates a robust ethical foundation and effectively embodies and promotes Christian values in leadership roles.
Demonstrates exceptional proficiency in analytical reasoning, problem resolution, and strategic decision-making.
Proven capability to shape strategic decisions at the executive level and cultivate productive relationships with the Board of Directors.
Effective communication and presentation skills are essential, enabling the translation of complex risk issues into clear, actionable insights for diverse audiences.
Proven track record in cultivating a robust risk culture and guiding diverse, cross-functional teams to success.
Maintaining unwavering integrity, strict confidentiality, and sound judgment is essential for this role.
Candidates who fulfill the specified requirements are advised to access the “Job Application Form” available at www.smep.co.ke/careers and submit their completed applications to recruitment@smep.co.ke. The email subject line must include the Job Title and Reference. All submissions should be received no later than Tuesday, 30th June 2026. Only applicants selected for further consideration will be notified.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA , Professional Certificate
Experience Required
8 - 10 years
