Manager - Operational Control & Governance

Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank; United Arab Emirates; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent financial institution is seeking a Manager – Operational Control & Governance in Abu Dhabi. The role focuses on implementing robust control frameworks, conducting compliance assessments, and identifying operational risks. Key responsibilities include leading reviews of policies, engaging with stakeholders, and delivering analysis-driven insights. The ideal candidate will possess advanced Excel and stakeholder management skills, along with a strong background in audit and compliance within banking operations. This position offers an excellent opportunity for career growth in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Strong communication and relationship-building capabilities.
• Experience in leading teams and managing performance.
• Proficiency in preparing and delivering structured reports.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive reviews of policies and procedures.
• Evaluate operational compliance with laws and regulations.
• Assess effectiveness of existing controls and identify risks.
• Collaborate with stakeholders for control enhancements.
• Deliver training sessions on control and compliance topics.
• Prepare detailed reports on control review outcomes.
• Utilize data analysis tools to identify trends.

Skills

Advanced MS Excel & PowerPoint Skills

Interpersonal & Stakeholder Management Skills

Team Leadership & Management

Presentation & Reporting Skills

Problem Solving & Analytical Thinking

Audit & Compliance Knowledge

Operational Risk Management Tools & Frameworks

Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC) Systems

Policy & Procedure Review Expertise

Project & Initiative Support

Job description

Role: Manager – Operational Control & Governance

Location: Abu Dhabi

Role Purpose

The Manager – Operational Control & Governance plays a key role within the Internal Control function of Group Operations. This position is responsible for implementing and maintaining a robust control review framework to ensure operational processes comply with regulatory requirements, industry standards, and internal policies. The role supports risk mitigation, process improvement, and promotes a culture of compliance and governance across the organization.

Key Accountabilities of the role

• Control Reviews: Conduct comprehensive reviews of policies and procedures (P&P) to ensure alignment with regulatory, industry, and internal standards.
• Compliance Assessments: Evaluate operational compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and internal governance frameworks.
• Risk Assessments: Assess the effectiveness of existing controls, identify operational risks and vulnerabilities, and recommend mitigation strategies.
• Process Improvements: Collaborate with stakeholders to identify opportunities for control enhancements and provide actionable recommendations for process optimization.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure consistency in control practices and promote adoption of best practices.
• Training & Awareness: Deliver guidance and training sessions on control and compliance topics to strengthen organizational understanding and adherence to established policies.
• Reporting: Prepare and present detailed reports on control review outcomes, compliance status, and progress updates to operational leadership and key stakeholders.
• Data Analytics: Utilize data analysis tools and techniques to identify trends, anomalies, and areas of concern within operational processes.

Specialist Skills / Technical Knowledge Required for this role

• Advanced MS Excel & PowerPoint Skills: Ability to build dashboards, perform data analysis, and create impactful presentations for senior stakeholders.
• Interpersonal & Stakeholder Management Skills: Strong communication and relationship‑building capabilities to engage effectively with Division Heads, senior management, and cross‑functional teams.
• Team Leadership & Management: Experience in leading teams, managing performance, and fostering a collaborative and high‑performing work environment.
• Presentation & Reporting Skills: Proficiency in preparing and delivering structured reports and presentations to executive committees and governance forums.
• Problem Solving & Analytical Thinking: Ability to apply sound judgment and structured thinking to resolve complex control and risk‑related issues.
• Audit & Compliance Knowledge: Familiarity with audit processes, regulatory requirements, and compliance frameworks relevant to banking operations.
• Operational Risk Management Tools & Frameworks: Understanding of ORM methodologies including RCSA, issue tracking, and risk heat mapping.
• Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC) Systems: Experience in using GRC platforms for tracking actions, managing risks, and reporting.
• Policy & Procedure Review Expertise: Ability to assess and enhance control elements embedded within operational policies and procedures.
• Project & Initiative Support: Capability to contribute to high‑profile projects and strategic initiatives, ensuring control and risk considerations are embedded.