Operational Risk - Principal

The ideal candidate for this role will be responsible for leading the Operational Risk Management (ORM) program in London, whilst supporting EMEA and global initiatives. They work collaboratively to deliver strategic, innovative and insightful solutions by leveraging emerging and standardized risk frameworks, data analytics (including AI) and their risk management experience. The Principal, Operational Risk will provide support to the function’s leadership in driving the execution of the team’s target operating model as the organization enhances its strategic remit to be more focused on alignment with the company’s key growth priorities.

In this role, the candidate will be heavily involved in developing and managing a broad range of risk initiatives (e.g., Risk and Control Inventory Governance, Risk Assessment Planning and Prioritization, etc.) and training alongside key stakeholders across the firm and will regularly have exposure to senior management.

The Principal, Operational Risk will be a critical risk adviser within ORM and to the firm, who will assist in embedding risk management practices into day-to-day business processes primarily focused on London, but also supporting ORM activities within EMEA and globally. Responsibilities include:

• Risk Program Oversight: Oversee adherence to Apollo operational risk management framework within London and supporting efforts across the EMEA region, including the governance of the Risk and Control Inventory (RCI), Incident Management, Issue Management, Risk Assessment and Key Risk Indicator Management. Ensure regular reviews of risk procedures and standards aligned with firm objectives, regulatory standards and client expectations.
• Risk Management Activity Support: The role will include basic aspects of leading the administrative and governance activities of the ORM team, including the coordination of local or regional risk forum(s), other meeting agendas, regular Policy/ Procedure reviews, contribution to risk related client/prospect due diligence meetings and/or questionnaires, etc.
• Risk Strategy & Execution: Support the Head of Operational Risk in all aspects of execution of their Target Operating Model (TOM). This includes contributing to the definition of strategic objectives and measures of success, risk assessment pipeline development, management and prioritization of work, risk reporting and governance. Key to this is developing and driving core risk analytics, in conjunction with business partners and the COO community, that prove the impact of strong and consistent risk management practices aligned to firms’ strategic priorities. Collaboration within control functions and business COO’s is key to success.
• Develop & Maintain Risk Training Program: Assist with enhancing existing risk training program to ensure alignment with any regulatory requirements and industry standards.

15 + years’ experience in financial services (preference for asset management/ credit/ private equity), risk management, internal controls, or organizational transformation initiatives. Outstanding leadership skills, proven ability to engage and influence senior business leaders, earning trust as a strategic partner and advisor. A proactive and organized self-starter with a positive attitude, great work ethic, strong attention to detail and advanced knowledge of Excel and PowerPoint, GRC tools (e.g., Archer). Critical thinker with strong quantitative and analytical skills who expresses their thoughts and ideas clearly both in oral and written communications. A change cultivator, with a strong risk and technology background with a focus on automation and process improvements. Experience implementing internal capital and risk assessment (ICARA) processes for an asset management firm a plus. Confident in using technology, including AI, to analyze big data and drive quick insights an advantage. Experience in Enterprise Risk or working in other risk areas e.g. market or credit risk a positive. Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution required.