At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and evolve the enterprise risk framework in a fast-growing fintech environment.
- Company: High-growth consumer finance business focused on financial inclusion.
- Benefits: Board-level role with clear progression and impactful leadership opportunities.
- Other info: Join a mission-driven team dedicated to responsible lending and customer outcomes.
- Why this job: Shape a scalable risk function and influence business growth directly.
- Qualifications: Experience as CRO or SMF4 in FCA-regulated environments with deep credit regulation expertise.
The predicted salary is between 120000 - 150000 £ per year.
We are partnering with a high-growth, FCA-authorised consumer finance business to appoint a Chief Risk Officer (CRO) at a pivotal stage in its evolution. This is a board-level role with full ownership of enterprise risk and a clear pathway to SMF4 as the firm scales.
This organisation operates at the intersection of fintech and retail finance, providing accessible point‐of‐sale lending solutions to a broad customer base, including underserved and near‐prime segments. With significant growth ambitions and major regulatory change on the horizon, the CRO will play a critical role in shaping a scalable, forward‐looking risk function.
This is a hands‐on, high‐impact leadership role suited to an experienced risk professional who combines strong regulatory credibility with the ability to operate in a lean, fast‐moving environment.
Key Responsibilities- Own and evolve the enterprise‐wide risk framework, including risk appetite and governance structures
- Deliver clear, insightful reporting to Board and Risk Committees
- Ensure alignment between UK operations and wider group risk standards
- Provide independent second‐line oversight of credit strategy and performance
- Monitor portfolio risk (arrears, defaults, concentrations) and challenge first‐line decision‐making
- Lead governance of credit models, including AI/ML decisioning frameworks
- Act as the primary senior contact for the FCA
- Own Consumer Duty and ensure strong customer outcomes, particularly for vulnerable segments
- Lead readiness for upcoming regulatory changes, including BNPL reforms
- Oversee operational, cyber, fraud, and third‐party risk
- Ensure resilience and governance across digital platforms and infrastructure
- Partner with the CEO and Board on growth initiatives, new products, and market expansion
- Protect and enhance the firm's reputation with regulators, partners, and customers
- Currently operating at CRO / SMF4 level (or ready to step into that accountability) within an FCA‐regulated environment
- Deep expertise in consumer credit regulation (CONC, Consumer Duty, SMCR)
- Proven experience in credit risk within near‐prime / underserved segments
- Strong track record of direct FCA engagement at a senior level
- Comfortable balancing strategic leadership with hands‐on execution in a scaling business
- High levels of commercial judgement, regulatory credibility, and stakeholder influence
- Opportunity to shape and build a scalable risk function from the ground up
- Direct exposure to Board and executive leadership
- Clear progression to SMF4 designation as the business grows
- A mission‐driven organisation focused on financial inclusion and responsible lending
If you're looking for a role where you can combine regulatory leadership, commercial impact, and real influence on business growth, this is a rare opportunity to step into a defining CRO position.
Chief Risk Officer - Consumer Finance in West Bromwich employer: MERJE
Join a dynamic and mission-driven consumer finance business that prioritises financial inclusion and responsible lending. As a Chief Risk Officer, you will not only have the opportunity to shape a scalable risk function but also enjoy a collaborative work culture that values innovation and employee growth. With clear pathways for progression and direct engagement with the Board, this role offers a unique chance to make a significant impact in a fast-paced environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Risk Officer - Consumer Finance in West Bromwich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their mission, values, and recent news. We want to see you shine and show how your experience aligns perfectly with their goals!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You need to be able to articulate your value clearly and confidently. We suggest rehearsing with a friend or in front of a mirror until you feel like a rockstar.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. We believe it shows your enthusiasm and professionalism, which is always a plus!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Risk Officer - Consumer Finance in West Bromwich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Chief Risk Officer. Highlight your experience in consumer credit regulation and any hands-on leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission and the specific responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this pivotal role. Share your vision for evolving the enterprise-wide risk framework and how you plan to tackle upcoming regulatory changes. Keep it engaging and relevant!
Showcase Your Regulatory Experience:Since this role involves significant interaction with the FCA, make sure to highlight your direct engagement with regulators. We’re looking for someone who can navigate the complexities of consumer finance regulation, so don’t hold back on sharing your successes in this area.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you get all the updates directly from us. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at MERJE
✨Know Your Regulatory Stuff
Make sure you brush up on consumer credit regulations like CONC and Consumer Duty. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with the rules, but that you can also navigate them effectively in a fast-paced environment.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a CRO, you’ll need to balance strategic vision with hands-on execution. Prepare examples of how you've led teams through change or managed risk in previous roles. This will help demonstrate your ability to influence stakeholders and drive results.
✨Understand the Business Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the fintech and retail finance sectors, especially around point-of-sale lending. Being able to discuss current trends and challenges will show that you’re not only a risk expert but also a strategic thinker who understands the market.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle specific risk scenarios, especially related to operational and technology risks. Think through potential challenges the company might face and be ready to share your insights on mitigating those risks effectively.
