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- Tasks: Lead risk management initiatives and provide oversight on operational risks.
- Company: Wickes, a dynamic home improvement retailer with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive bonus, private medical, life assurance, and extensive wellbeing support.
- Other info: Join a diverse team passionate about success and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a friendly environment while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in risk management or related fields is essential.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Wickes are looking for a successful candidate to lead the development and implementation of a comprehensive risk management framework and provide objective oversight and challenge on the adequacy and effectiveness of the business’s management of operational risk, giving consideration to recent Corporate Governance Code changes and new reporting requirements. The successful candidate will enjoy working in a friendly, dynamic and agile environment, contributing to all aspects of the risk function. The role will be based in Watford and will require occasional travel between other business locations.
What you’ll be doing
- Support the Director, Internal Audit and Risk in the design and delivery of an effective operational risk management and reporting capability and in the design, maintenance, oversight and reporting of an operational risk management framework.
- Deliver insightful risk analysis on the performance of operational risk management relative to Board agreed risk appetite, escalating issues and trends to senior management and appropriate governance committees.
- As subject matter expert, oversight and challenge the outputs from the business assessment and management of operational risks and controls through the company’s RCSA process.
- Provide professional and pragmatic risk and control advice and support to the business areas and support functions, including advising business teams on risk-adjusted returns and assisting with major change initiatives or new product launches.
- Promote and embed a positive risk management and compliance culture throughout the organisation by training and mentoring staff on risk mitigation.
- Identifying and assessing risks – run workshops, interviews and data reviews to surface risks, then score them for likelihood and impact using agreed frameworks or risk matrices.
- Maintaining the risk register and framework – own or coordinate the risk register, keeping risks up to date, tracking actions, closing items and improving how risks are categorised and assessed over time.
- Designing and reviewing controls – work with process owners (finance, operations, IT, HR, H&S, legal) to agree practical controls – policies, approvals, system checks, insurance, training – that reduce or transfer risk.
- Reporting to senior stakeholders – prepare regular risk reports and dashboards for directors, committees or the Board, highlighting top risks, trends and any areas where risk is rising beyond appetite.
- Advising projects and change programmes – review business cases, sit on project boards and challenge plans to make sure risk is considered early.
- Championing a risk‑aware culture – coach managers on risk thinking, run training, refine templates and sometimes lead internal campaigns so that risk management doesn’t just live in a spreadsheet.
What we’re looking for
- Experience and/or qualifications in one or more of the following governance related disciplines: risk management, internal audit, compliance.
- Proven experience in an operational risk management role.
- Track record of working with other assurance providers, e.g. Internal Audit, external auditors.
- Designing and implementing enterprise‑wide operational risk management programmes.
- Preparing and presenting risk and compliance papers for senior management, including Board Committees.
What can we offer you?
- You’ll be supported with fantastic learning and development and have the opportunity to grow and develop your career with us.
- We also have an early careers network to support you if you’re in your first few years of your career.
- Competitive bonus
- Save‑as‑you‑earn scheme
- Private Medical and Life Assurance
- Enhanced contributory pension scheme
- Colleague discount
- Discount platform including savings and cash back at numerous retailers, savings on gym membership, cycle to work scheme
Our widely recognised wellbeing strategy is something we’re proud of at Wickes. As part of this, we offer a range of health and wellbeing benefits and support, including an Employee Assistance Programme, financial education & loans, and access to parental, menopause and fertility support. By giving you the support you need to do well at work, and the flexibility to make life work for you. We are giving you a career that doesn’t put your life on hold. Where you can be yourself, do your best work, and make a positive difference every day.
About Us
Wickes is a multi‑channel retailer operating in the home improvement market. With 50 years in industry, Wickes now generates revenue in excess of £1.6bn across 230 stores delivered by 8,000+ colleagues. But it is our culture that is considered our best kept secret; it’s a collaborative, down to earth, fun and inclusive environment where people feel part of a winning team. All our colleagues come from different backgrounds, but what we all have in common is a determination to succeed and a passion for being the best we can be. If that sounds like you, we’ll make you feel right at home.
Senior Risk Manager in Watford employer: Wickes
Contact Detail:
Wickes Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Risk Manager in Watford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Wickes and understanding their risk management framework. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their needs. Practice common interview questions and think of examples that highlight your skills in operational risk management.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. Mention something specific from the interview to remind them of your conversation and reinforce your interest.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the Wickes team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Risk Manager in Watford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in risk management. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific examples of how you've successfully managed operational risks in the past. We love seeing quantifiable results!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make it easy for us to see why you're a great fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role without any hiccups!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wickes
✨Know Your Risk Management Framework
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand risk management frameworks and how they apply to operational risk. Be ready to discuss your experience in designing and implementing these frameworks, as well as any recent changes in corporate governance that may affect them.
✨Prepare Insightful Risk Analysis Examples
Think of specific examples where you've delivered insightful risk analysis in previous roles. Be prepared to explain how you assessed risks, escalated issues, and contributed to decision-making processes. This will show your ability to provide objective oversight and challenge effectively.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Wickes values a friendly and dynamic environment, so highlight your experience working collaboratively with various teams. Discuss how you've coached others on risk management and contributed to a positive risk culture, demonstrating your ability to mentor and train staff.
✨Be Ready for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in risk management. Prepare to discuss how you would handle specific situations, such as identifying and assessing risks or advising on major change initiatives. This will showcase your practical approach to risk management.