JOB DESCRIPTION
Reporting to Managing Director, the Operations & Risk Governance Manager plays a central role in strengthening organisational effectiveness, operational discipline, and regulatory governance. The role leads the establishment, review, and enhancement of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), drives workflow optimisation and automation, and supports enterprise-wide risk controls.
As part of its longer-term evolution, the role will assume internal review and audit responsibilities and gradually expand to support regional oversight, including financial coordination, growth initiatives, and the initial set up of new offices or acquisitions within the region.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Mainly but not limited to:
Operational Excellence & SOP Development
- Lead the development, documentation, and continuous enhancement of SOPs across broking, claims, and supporting functions.
- Drive workflow automation, process standardisation, and operational efficiency initiatives.
- Assess operational risks arising from existing procedures and implement appropriate controls.
- Support change management, training, and communication to ensure successful SOP adoption.
- Identify process gaps and collaborate with stakeholders to implement improvements.
Risk Governance & Regulatory Oversight
- Integrate MAS and other relevant regulatory requirements into operational processes, internal controls, and business practices.
- Oversee frameworks related to AML/CFT, client onboarding (KYC), sanctions screening, PEP checks, and adverse media monitoring.
- Govern and oversee policies and controls relating to data Protection (PDPA), technology and cybersecurity risk, and cyber hygiene standards, including appropriate testing and review programmes where required.
- Monitor organisational risk indicators, regulatory obligations, and operational risk exposures, escalating material issues in a timely manner.
- Conduct or participate in financial due diligence in relation to Client onboarding, business reviews, or strategic initiatives.
- Conduct periodic client and counterparty risk evaluations and maintain comprehensive due diligence and regulatory documentation.
- Lead internal training and awareness initiatives on governance, data protection, conduct, risk awareness, technology risk, and regulatory responsibilities across the organisation.
Internal Review, Controls & Audit
- Establish and grow the internal review function to assess controls, processes, and governance.
- Conduct internal audits to evaluate control effectiveness, policy adherence, and operational accuracy.
- Prepare findings, recommend corrective actions, and monitor timely remediation.
- Manage internal and external audit reviews, including financial and operational audits.
- Coordinate quarterly reviews and initiatives with external consultants.
Regional Expansion Support
- Support regional growth initiatives, including assisting in the initial set up of new offices, joint ventures, or acquisitions within the region.
- Assist in licensing applications and regulatory approvals required for new offices or newly established entities.
- Participate in due diligence, regulatory assessments, and operational readiness reviews for new setups or acquisitions.
- Develop and harmonise SOPs, governance frameworks, and operational controls for newly established or acquired operations.
- Coordinate with Group and regional stakeholders to ensure consistent operational, risk, and governance standards.
Regional Finance Oversight
- Assist in aligning regional financial processes with governance and operational standards.
- Support regional finance teams in reporting, budgeting controls, and financial monitoring.
- Conduct or participate in financial due diligence for client onboarding or strategic initiatives.
- Gradually take on responsibilities for regional financial coordination in collaboration with Group Finance.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
- Degree in Business Administration, Law, Finance, Risk Management, or a related discipline.
- At least 8 years’ experience in operations, risk governance, audit, or related roles in the insurance or financial services sector.
- Demonstrated experience in developing SOPs, implementing operational controls, and managing risk frameworks.
- Strong understanding of MAS regulatory requirements, AML/CFT, PDPA, and technology risk guidelines.
- Experience in cybersecurity testing, internal audit, technology risk oversight, or regulatory licensing processes is advantageous.
- Professional certifications (e.g., ICA, ACAMS, audit, risk, DPO certifications) are beneficial.
SKILLS/ COMPETENCIES
- Strong understanding of operational risk, governance frameworks, and internal controls.
- Skilled in process design, optimisation, and documentation.
- Analytical and detail-oriented, with strong ability to translate regulatory requirements into practical processes.
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office 365; familiarity with workflow and audit management tools is advantageous.
- Proactive, organised, and adaptable to evolving business needs.
- Able to work independently and collaboratively across teams and regions.
WHAT WE OFFER
- Strategic leadership role with a progressive regional responsibility.
- Comprehensive career progression in operations, risk governance, and organisational development.
- Inclusive and collaborative workplace culture.
- Medical insurance, wellness initiatives, and performance-based bonus.
- Flexible work arrangements, including hybrid work options.
- A five-day work week in a centrally located office.
- Competitive salary, depending on previous relevant experience.
Interested applicants, please send in your full resume stating current salary and earliest commencement date.
Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.