First-Line Risk & Control Leader

westernalliancebank; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Western Alliance Bank is seeking an experienced First Line Risk & Control Associate Director to lead risk programs and strengthen the control environment across the enterprise. You will guide risk assessments, drive improvements, and ensure regulatory alignment while partnering with business units to mitigate legal and compliance risks.

You will manage a team, hire and coach staff, and coordinate risk activities across Digital, Operational, and Compliance domains, promoting a strong risk culture

Qualifications

• 10+ years of related experience in Risk Management, Regulatory Compliance, Internal Audit or similar field.
• Bachelor's degree in related field required.
• Advanced to expert knowledge of control testing.
• Previous leadership experience required.
• Advanced knowledge of general banking operations, including deposits, loans, treasury, and related services.
• Advanced knowledge of applicable regulatory and legal obligations.
• Advanced to expert experience in Compliance, Operations Management, Audit, or Risk Management.
• Advanced to expert knowledge of Control Programs including RCSA (Risk & Control Self-Assessment).
• Experience in developing and implementing new controls, action plans, and root-cause analysis.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team responsible for evaluating risk strategies, mitigation approaches, and risk exposure analysis.
• Drive control enhancements and ensure alignment with regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with business units to improve the control environment and resolve issues.
• Perform risk assessments, report key risks, and support risk-based decision making.
• Provide risk training and guidance on change management initiatives.
• Develop and oversee risk programs across Digital, Operational, Strategic, Legal, and Compliance areas.

Skills

Risk Management

Regulatory Compliance

Internal Audit

Leadership

Banking Operations Knowledge

Regulatory Knowledge

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

Job description

Western Alliance Bank is seeking an experienced First Line Risk & Control Associate Director to lead risk programs and strengthen the control environment across the enterprise. You will guide risk assessments, drive improvements, and ensure regulatory alignment while partnering with business units to mitigate legal and compliance risks.

You will manage a team, hire and coach staff, and coordinate risk activities across Digital, Operational, and Compliance domains, promoting a strong risk culture