At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Enterprise Risk function and shape AI governance in a growing fintech.
- Company: Dynamic FCA-regulated fintech with a focus on consumer lending.
- Benefits: Influence strategic decisions and enjoy a collaborative executive environment.
- Other info: Join a progressive team where your voice truly matters.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on risk management and drive innovation responsibly.
- Qualifications: Senior risk leadership experience in fintech or regulated financial services.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
MERJE is delighted to be exclusively retained to appoint a
Chief Risk Officer on behalf of a highly successful, FCA-regulated fintech operating within the consumer lending sector.
This is an exceptional opportunity to join a business experiencing sustained growth and significant investment, where Risk is recognised as a genuine strategic partner to the Executive Team and Board.
Reporting directly to the CEO, you'll have responsibility for leading the Enterprise Risk function whilst helping shape the future direction of governance, regulatory strategy and AI-enabled risk management across the organisation.
This is a role for someone who wants genuine influence, not simply ownership of an existing framework.
About the Opportunity
This organisation has built an impressive reputation through its progressive approach to technology, automation and customer outcomes.
Already well advanced in its use of AI and automated decisioning, the business sees Risk playing a pivotal role in ensuring innovation continues responsibly whilst maintaining excellent governance and regulatory standards.
Rather than viewing AI as simply another risk to manage, the Executive Team recognises it will fundamentally reshape how modern Risk functions operate.
As a result, they're looking for a Chief Risk Officer who shares that vision.
Alongside providing independent oversight of enterprise and credit risk, you'll influence strategic decision-making, help shape AI governance and model risk oversight, engage with regulators and support continued business growth.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the Enterprise Risk Management Framework across the business.
- Own Risk Appetite, Risk Reporting and Board Risk Governance.
- Provide independent oversight of Credit Risk and Risk Strategy.
- Lead engagement with the FCA and support ongoing regulatory developments.
- Advise the CEO, Executive Team and Board on strategic risk matters.
- Oversee AI Governance, Model Risk and automated decision-making frameworks.
- Continue to develop scalable governance suitable for a rapidly growing fintech.
- Promote a strong risk culture across the organisation whilst supporting commercial objectives.
- Act as a trusted advisor to both Executive and Non-Executive Directors.
About You
We’re interested in speaking with senior risk leaders who combine exceptional technical capability with genuine commercial influence.
You’ll most likely bring experience gained within consumer lending, fintech, banking or broader regulated financial services.
You’ll also be able to demonstrate
- Significant Enterprise Risk leadership experience.
- Strong knowledge of FCA regulation, Consumer Duty and governance.
- Experience operating at Board and Executive Committee level.
- Confidence engaging with senior regulators and external stakeholders.
- Strong commercial judgement and the ability to challenge constructively.
- Experience or a strong appreciation of AI Governance, model risk or technology-enabled risk management.
- Gravitas, credibility and excellent stakeholder management skills.
- A collaborative leadership style with the confidence to influence at the highest levels.
Whether you’re already operating as a Chief Risk Officer or are an exceptional senior leader ready to step into your first CRO appointment, we’d be delighted to hear from you.
Why Apply?
This is far more than a traditional CRO role.
You’ll join a collaborative Executive Team where your opinion genuinely shapes business decisions.
You’ll influence the future direction of AI governance within a highly progressive organisation.
You’ll help build a modern Risk function capable of supporting ambitious commercial growth.
You’ll enjoy the pace, visibility and variety that comes from operating within a lean, entrepreneurial business where decisions are made quickly and ideas are welcomed.
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Risk Officer - Lending
✨Join Compliance Communities
Get involved in compliance and risk communities — both online and offline. Look for forums, LinkedIn groups, or even local meetups where compliance pros hang out. You never know who might drop a job opportunity your way!
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye out for compliance and risk management conferences and workshops in your area. These events are a goldmine for networking, and they often have job boards or recruiters on-site looking for new talent. Plus, it’s a chance to learn what's trending in the field.
✨Leverage Your University Career Services
If you’ve recently graduated or are still studying, head over to your university's career services. Many companies, including those in compliance, actively recruit fresh talent through these services, so make sure you tap into that resource.
✨Showcase Your Knowledge Online
Start writing articles or blog posts about compliance topics that interest you. Share them on platforms like LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and passion. This not only builds your presence in the field but can also catch the attention of companies like MERJE looking for candidates who are engaged and informed.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Risk Officer - Lending
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Understanding of Compliance:In the compliance-risk field, it's super important to showcase your understanding of regulations and risk management frameworks. Highlight any relevant coursework, certifications (like ICA or AML), or even projects that demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to this area. We want to see how you can navigate this complex landscape!
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, try to quantify your achievements. For example, if you've previously worked on a project that improved compliance metrics or reduced risk exposure, give us the numbers! This data-driven approach really stands out to hiring managers in compliance-risk roles.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Relevant Skills:Make sure your CV highlights skills that are particularly relevant to compliance, like attention to detail, analytical thinking, and report writing. Ensure these are easy to spot – consider using bullet points to break down your responsibilities and achievements for maximum impact!
Craft a Motivating Cover Letter:In your cover letter, let us know why you’re excited about the compliance-risk role at MERJE. Share what motivates you about compliance, and how you believe you can contribute to our mission. This is your chance to showcase not only your skills but also your passion for this important field!
How to prepare for a job interview at MERJE
✨Master the Regulations
Brush up on key compliance regulations relevant to the industry you're applying to. Familiarising yourself with specific laws and frameworks used in your field will give you an edge during technical questions. Show that you’re not just aware of them but can also apply them—think real-life scenarios!
✨Show Your Analytical Skills
Compliance roles really focus on analytical skills, so be prepared for case studies or situational questions during the interview. We've got to demonstrate how we approach risk assessments or compliance audits, possibly drawing on examples from past experiences or university projects. Bring some thoughtful case scenarios to discuss!
✨Know Your Tools
Get comfortable with commonly used compliance software and tools. Familiarity with platforms like RSA or MetricStream can really impress during your interview, as it shows you're ready to hit the ground running. If you’ve had any experience with them, make sure to highlight that!
✨Align with Company Culture
Since it's a full-time position, show your long-term commitment and interest in the company’s mission and values. Dive into how your ethics and professional philosophy align with MERJE’s stance on compliance. A shared vision can really resonate with interviewers looking for fit as much as skill!
