Head of Risk and Controls Oversight, Europe

The Vanguard Group; Greater London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A global asset management firm is seeking a Head of Risk and Controls Oversight Europe to lead the design and implementation of a robust controls framework. The role demands strong experience in operational risk and involves collaborating with stakeholders to ensure effective testing and compliance. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in managing risk in a fast-paced environment. This position offers a full-time hybrid working model, balancing flexibility with in-person collaboration.

Qualifications

• Strong risk controls-related experience, especially in operational risk.
• Recognised SME in controls with strong knowledge of practices and frameworks.
• Strong understanding of enterprise risk management frameworks.
• Experience within asset management or financial services.
• Proven record of control transformation and sustainable practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and implementation of European business-wide controls framework.
• Support building a centralised risk and control inventory.
• Shape the Target Operating Model of the programme.
• Drive culture of continuous improvement in controls.
• Coordinate governance and reporting on control effectiveness.

Skills

Leadership skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Job description

Job Specification

Role Title: Head of Risk and Controls Oversight Europe

Location: Vanguard Europe (London)

Function: 2nd Line of Defence Risks and Controls

Role Purpose

The Head of Risk and Controls Oversight Europe will support the design and implementation of a consistent European-business-wide controls framework the building of a centralised risk and control inventory and shape the future Target Operating Model of the programme aligned to Vanguard global risk and controls standards. Once the framework is established and embedded in business-as-usual the Head of Risk and Controls Oversight Europe will continue to provide subject matter expertise and leadership across Vanguard Europe to strengthen the risk and control environment drive effective 2LOD assurance and ensure consistent practices across business divisions.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the design and implementation of a consistent European business-wide controls framework including ensuring alignment with the enterprise risk management framework

Support the building of a centralised risk and control inventory in Vanguards GRC tool establishing European standards for risks and controls aligned to Vanguards global standards

Shape the future Target Operating Model of the programme aligned to Vanguards global risk and controls standards.

Collaborate with first line stakeholders to develop review and oversee delivery of indicative controls testing plans reporting on timely and effective execution.

Provide training and oversight for embedded first line control testers across Vanguard Europes business divisions providing feedback to first line managers and heads of business.

Own the second line controls assurance plan of work and oversee activities by second line controls testers.

Coordinate production of governance and reporting on control effectiveness providing senior stakeholders with clear visibility of control testing results and assurance outcomes.

Stay abreast of regulatory developments and industry best practice in risk and control and controls testing ensuring alignment and proactive adaptation of the framework.

Drive a culture of continuous improvement identifying opportunities to strengthen controls simplify processes and enhance efficiency including use of automation where appropriate.

Experience & Qualifications

Strong risk controls related experience with experience in operational risk controls (control design testing or assurance).

Recognised SME in controls with strong knowledge of emerging practices regulatory expectations and frameworks.

Strong understanding of enterprise risk management frameworks (particularly non-financial risk) and relevant financial services regulations.

Experience within asset management or financial services with strong knowledge of business processes and operating models.

Proven track record of delivering large-scale control transformation and improvement programmes including change management and embedding sustainable practices.

Demonstrable experience managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced and ambiguous environment.

Skills & Competencies

Excellent leadership coordination and influencing skills across a matrixed organisation.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a pragmatic delivery focused mindset.

High-level written and verbal communication skills capable of engaging stakeholders at all levels from business teams to senior leadership.

Ability to coach and upskill colleagues fostering capability uplift across the first line of defence.

How We Work

Vanguard has implemented a hybrid working model for the majority of our crew members designed to capture the benefits of enhanced flexibility while enabling in-person learning collaboration and connection. We believe our mission-driven and highly collaborative culture is a critical enabler to support long-term client outcomes and enrich the employee experience.

Employment Type: Full-Time

Experience: years

Vacancy: 1