Program Manager - Credit Risk Management

Hallmark Search Partners; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 440,000 - 551,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking an experienced Program Manager specialized in Credit Risk Management for a banking client in the UAE. The candidate should have 16-20 years of program management experience, a strong background in risk compliance, and the ability to bridge business with IT needs. Responsibilities include delivering key programs, overseeing AML and KYC projects, and ensuring stakeholder communication. Ideal candidates will have relevant certifications and UAE banking experience.

Qualifications

• 16-20 years of overall experience in program/project management.
• Deep expertise in Credit Risk Management.
• Prior experience in UAE banking sector required.

Responsibilities

• Deliver complex programs in credit risk and compliance.
• Oversee projects across AML, KYC, Risk Assessment, and Fraud Control.
• Ensure compliance with policies, regulations, and best practices.

Skills

Program / project management

Credit Risk Management

Stakeholder management

Communication skills

Education

PMP, PRINCE2, or similar certifications

Tools

Moody's

ACTICO

SAS Risk

Oracle FCCM

Experian

Job description

Job Title

Program Manager - Credit Risk Management

Location

UAE

Experience Required

16-20 Years

Industry

Banking / Financial Services

Job Overview

We are looking for a seasoned Program Manager with strong expertise in Credit Risk Management and hands‑on experience delivering large, end‑to‑end programs in risk and compliance. The ideal candidate should have banking sector experience in the UAE, with the ability to manage both functional and technical aspects of projects. This role requires working as a bridge between business, risk, IT, and data teams, ensuring timely and compliant delivery of key initiatives while maintaining strong governance, risk controls, and clear stakeholder communication.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver complex programs in credit risk and compliance from start to finish.
• Oversee projects across AML, KYC, Risk Assessment, Fraud Control, and related areas.
• Apply knowledge of regulatory standards (CBUAE, Basel III, IFRS 9, ICAAP).
• Work with risk systems like Moody's, ACTICO, SAS Risk, Oracle FCCM, Experian, etc.
• Coordinate across functions to align business and technical objectives.
• Engage stakeholders at all levels and ensure effective communication.
• Identify risks and issues early, put mitigation plans in place, and track progress.
• Share regular updates, dashboards, and reports with senior management.
• Ensure compliance with policies, regulations, and best practices.
• Foster a culture of accountability, transparency, and collaboration.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• 16-20 years of overall experience with a strong background in program / project management.
• Deep expertise in Credit Risk Management and Risk‑based projects.
• Mandatory: Prior experience in UAE banking sector.
• Good technical understanding with the ability to bridge business and IT needs.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Confident in challenging assumptions and influencing decisions.
• Solution‑oriented leadership style with high accountability.
• PMP, PRINCE2, or similar certifications preferred.