Job Description

We are seeking a Senior Risk & Compliance Officer, on behalf of one of our renowned clients - an established firm in the broader financial services sector, to contribute to the development and implementation of the Company’s Risk Management and Compliance framework

This is a mid-to-senior role (6–8 years of experience) offering the opportunity to:

• actively shape a growing Risk function
• work on data, technology, and regulatory risk topics
• contribute to a systemically important organisation

The role operates as a Second Line of Defence, working closely with senior management and key control functions.

Key Responsibilities

Risk Management Framework

• Support the design, implementation, and continuous enhancement of the risk management framework
• Maintain and evolve the Company’s risk register
• Coordinate and facilitate risk assessments (incl. RCSA) across business units

Operational Risk

• Monitor operational risks across processes, systems, and data flows
• Capture and analyse incidents, perform root cause analysis, and support mitigation actions
• Track and follow up on corrective measures

Regulatory Compliance

• Monitor applicable regulatory requirements and assess their impact
• Support business units in implementing compliance obligations
• Promote a strong compliance culture across the organisation

Data Governance & Data Risk

• Monitor risks related to data integrity, accuracy, and lawful processing
• Assess data-related processes and contribute to data governance practices
• Collaborate closely with the DPO and IT teams on data protection matters

Policies & Internal Controls

• Support the development and maintenance of risk and compliance policies
• Contribute to strengthening internal control processes

Third Party Risk

• Participate in vendor and outsourcing risk assessments
• Monitor third-party compliance with contractual and regulatory obligations

Reporting

• Prepare insightful risk and compliance reports
• Support management decision-making through structured analysis

Candidate Profile

Education

• Degree in Economics, Business Administration, Risk Management, Information Systems, or related field
• Master’s degree will be considered an asset

Experience

• 6–8 years in Risk Management, Compliance, or Internal Control
• Experience in data-driven, financial services, fintech, or regulated environments

Certifications (desirable)

• CRISC, ISO 31000, or relevant compliance certifications

Why Join

• Be part of a critical financial infrastructure organisation
• Contribute to building a modern, data-centric Risk & Compliance function
• Gain exposure to data governance, regulatory frameworks, and technology risk
• Work in a role with visibility and impact at senior management level

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive compensation package aligned with the seniority and responsibilities of the role
• Performance-based Variable Bonus (VB) linked to clearly defined individual (functional) and corporate KPIs
• Participation in a structured remuneration framework supporting performance, accountability, and business alignment
• Access to targeted professional training and continuous development in areas such as risk management, compliance, data governance, and regulatory frameworks
• Exposure to senior management decision-making processes and cross-functional collaboration
• Opportunity to contribute to the development of a modern Risk & Compliance function within a regulated environment
• Career progression within a data-driven, systemically important organization

About Optimal

Since 2005, Optimal has provided unparalleled, bespoke HR services to large organizations and SMEs operating in the EMEA region. We pride ourselves on delivering a 360° business support platform to our clients through 6 service divisions:

• Talent Acquisition
• HR Strategy & Talent Development
• Learning & Development
• Workforce Management
• Recruiting
• Outplacement