Vice President - Operational Risk and Governance

First Abu Dhabi Bank; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) invites an experienced Vice President to lead Operational Risk and Governance in Abu Dhabi. The role oversees the risk framework for Group Operations and Credit Administration, strengthening risk assessments, internal controls, governance, and operational efficiency.

The successful candidate will work with senior stakeholders, guide risk metrics, and drive continuous improvement while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and internal policies in a

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in operational risk management within the financial services industry.
• Strong understanding of regulatory requirements and industry practices.
• Proven leadership capability with the ability to influence and collaborate at executive level.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain complex concepts to diverse audiences.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage the operational risk framework across Group Operations and Credit Administration.
• Lead the design and execution of control frameworks aligned with regulatory requirements and internal policies.
• Oversee the identification, assessment, and mitigation of operational risks across relevant business units and processes.
• Collaborate with senior leadership on risk appetite and tolerance levels in alignment with business objectives.
• Provide strategic direction for the development and enhancement of risk metrics and key performance indicators.

Skills

Leadership

Communication skills

Regulatory knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field

MBA or MSc preferred

Job description

Role: Vice President - Operational Risk and Governance

Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE

Industry: Banking

Function: Risk Management-Compliance

Experience: Extensive relevant experience

Job Type: Full Time

First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) is seeking a Vice President - Operational Risk and Governance for an on-site leadership role in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The position will oversee the Operational Risk Framework across Group Operations and Credit Administration, with responsibility for strengthening risk assessments, internal controls, governance, and operational efficiency. The role requires an experienced financial-services risk professional capable of working independently, leading teams, and collaborating with senior stakeholders on risk and control priorities.

Job Details

• Country: UAE
• City: Abu Dhabi
• Industry: Banking
• Function: Risk Management-Compliance
• Salary: Not disclosed
• Gender: No Preference
• Candidate Nationality: Not specified
• Job Type: Full Time
• Work Arrangement: On-site

Operational Risk and Control Framework

The Vice President will provide direction for operational risk management across Group Operations and Credit Administration. The role combines risk governance, control design, risk assessment, regulatory compliance, process improvement, and leadership responsibilities.

• Develop, implement, and manage operational risk strategies designed to safeguard the bank's assets and reputation.
• Lead the design and execution of control frameworks aligned with regulatory requirements and internal policies.
• Oversee the identification, assessment, and mitigation of operational risks across relevant business units and processes.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and control evaluations to identify emerging risks and determine appropriate proactive measures.
• Collaborate with senior leadership on risk appetite and tolerance levels in alignment with business objectives.
• Provide strategic direction for the development and enhancement of risk metrics and key performance indicators.
• Strengthen the quality and effectiveness of risk assessments and internal controls.

Governance and Regulatory Compliance

• Govern the effective implementation of OICG functional policies, procedures, and controls across assigned activities.
• Ensure relevant procedural and legislative requirements are fulfilled while maintaining effective service delivery.
• Support adherence to anti-money laundering requirements, Central Bank guidelines, and applicable internal policies and procedures.
• Ensure deviations are reported to the appropriate levels in accordance with established requirements.
• Operate within FAB Group policies and the bank's wider organisational and governance frameworks.
• Exercise decision-making authority in accordance with the approved authorization matrix.
• Demonstrate adherence to the organisation's values and ethical standards.

Leadership and Team Development

The Vice President will lead managers and supervisors within the operational control and governance function, providing guidance, coaching, and support to strengthen performance and employee development. Responsibilities include providing constructive and timely performance evaluations for OICG staff and supporting the Head of OICG and APM with recruitment and interview activities for the Operational Internal Control and Governance department.

• Provide constructive and timely performance evaluations for OICG staff.
• Support the Head of OICG and APM with recruitment and interview activities for the Operational Internal Control and Governance department.

Risk Culture and Stakeholder Engagement

• Promote operational risk awareness across Group Operations and Credit Administration.
• Develop and support education and training initiatives that strengthen risk awareness.
• Work collaboratively with senior leadership and relevant stakeholders on operational risk and control matters.
• Report regularly to the Head of OICG and APM on departmental matters and the status of Group Operations and Credit Administration.
• Communicate complex risk and control concepts effectively to different audiences.

Continuous Improvement

The role will drive improvements in operational processes to strengthen efficiency while reducing risk exposure. This includes implementing robust tools and processes to identify opportunities for sustainable improvements in systems, controls, and operating practices. Continuous improvement initiatives should consider relevant global standards, productivity enhancement, operational efficiency, and cost reduction.

Qualifications and Professional Background

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.
• Extensive experience in operational risk management and control within the financial services industry.
• Strong understanding of regulatory requirements and industry practices relating to operational risk.
• Proven leadership capability with the ability to influence and collaborate at executive level.
• Demonstrated experience managing and developing high-performing teams.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain complex concepts to diverse audiences.
• Ability to operate effectively in a dynamic, fast‑paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

An advanced degree such as an MBA or MSc in a relevant discipline is preferred. Professional certifications in operational risk management or an equivalent field are also highly desirable.