At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operational resilience and third-party risk management in a start-up bank.
- Company: Join a new bank shaping the future of digital banking.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with a clear pathway to leadership.
- Why this job: Be a key player in building a risk function from the ground up.
- Qualifications: 8-12 years in operational resilience or risk management, strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 85000 £ per year.
MERJE are partnering with a new bank currently undergoing PRA/FCA authorisation to recruit a Head of Operational Resilience & Third-Party Risk.
This is a unique opportunity to join at an early stage and take first line ownership of operational resilience, business continuity and third party risk management, while playing a key role in building the bank’s risk and controls framework from the ground up.
The role will evolve over time, with the successful candidate initially operating as an individual contributor before building and leading a small team.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Resilience
- Design, implement and embed the operational resilience framework, including Important Business Services, impact tolerances and scenario testing
- Lead the annual self-assessment process and ongoing regulatory alignment
- Business Continuity Management
- Establish and maintain the BCM framework, policies and plans
- Develop and deliver scenario testing to ensure operational readiness
- Third Party Risk Management (TPRM)
- Own the end-to-end TPRM lifecycle, including onboarding, due diligence, monitoring and exit planning
- Maintain the third party register and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements
- Support the onboarding and oversight of key supplier and partner relationships
- Controls & Assurance (Year 2)
- Design and implement a first line controls and assurance framework
- Introduce independent first line testing and support the ongoing maturity of controls
- Build and lead a small team
- Act as a key risk partner to the Operations function
- Identify emerging risks and provide structured insight to senior stakeholders
- Contribute to governance forums and risk committees
- Candidate Profile
- 8-12 years of relevant experience within operational resilience, third party risk management and/or business continuity in a PRA/FCA regulated environment
- Strong understanding of first line risk ownership and the three lines of defence model
- Proven ability to design and implement frameworks and processes
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving environment
- Strong stakeholder management and communication skills
- Experience supporting a bank through authorisation or mobilisation
- Exposure to challenger banks, fintechs or start-up environments
- Experience building or contributing to controls or assurance frameworks
- Interest in or exposure to AI / automation within risk management
Why Apply?
- Opportunity to build and shape a risk function from inception
- Clear pathway to leadership and team build-out
- Exposure to a high-growth, digital-first banking environment
- High level of ownership and visibility with senior stakeholder
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Head of Op Resilience & Third-Party Risk - Start-up Bank employer: MERJE
Join a dynamic and innovative InsureTech company that prioritises compliance and regulatory excellence while fostering a collaborative and forward-thinking work culture. As the Head of Compliance, you will not only lead the UK compliance function but also enjoy flexible hybrid working arrangements, competitive salary packages, and ample opportunities for long-term career development in a high-growth environment. This is your chance to make a meaningful impact in a pivotal role at a company that values integrity and consumer protection.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Op Resilience & Third-Party Risk - Start-up Bank
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like MERJE. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Op Resilience & Third-Party Risk - Start-up Bank
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to MERJE.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on MERJE's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at MERJE
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with MERJE.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at MERJE will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former MERJE employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
