Senior Risk & Due Diligence Lead

Ascendant Program Services, LLC; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Ascendant is seeking a Senior Risk Analyst to support a multi-year USTDA contract. Based in Arlington, VA, this full-time role focuses on project management, risk assessment, and enhanced due diligence to support funding decisions.

Responsibilities include coordinating DD projects, conducting risk analysis, and presenting findings to senior leadership. Requires 5+ years in due diligence, AML knowledge, and ability to obtain security clearances. Spanish/Portuguese a plus.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; master’s or advanced degree preferred.
• 5+ years of experience conducting due diligence research and/or risk assessments.
• 2+ years of experience providing research training and/or quality control review.
• Spanish and/or Portuguese language skills with LAC regional knowledge/experience.
• Experience managing complex investigations within risk advisory, financial, or government contexts.
• Strong knowledge of AML, sanctions and anti-bribery frameworks in international settings.

Responsibilities

• Provide project management support for due diligence projects, coordinating and reviewing reports.
• Assess risks identified and provide actionable mitigation recommendations.
• Coordinate with Ascendant and USTDA teams to identify key individuals/entities.
• Review due diligence questionnaires and reports for completeness and accuracy.
• Conduct enhanced due diligence including adverse media reviews related to financial crimes.
• Analyze complex corporate structures, beneficial ownership, and public filings.
• Evaluate findings against regulatory frameworks and reputational risk.
• Prepare concise written summaries of findings, red flags, and recommendations.
• Present investigative findings to regional teams and senior leadership.
• Advise on best practices and contribute to process improvements.
• Provide training on due diligence guidelines.

Skills

Risk assessment

Due diligence

Project management

Research training

Analytical thinking

Written communication

Verbal communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

Westlaw

LexisNexis

SAM.gov

SharePoint

Microsoft Office

Job description

Ascendant is seeking a Senior Risk Analyst to support a multi-year USTDA contract. Based in Arlington, VA, this full-time role focuses on project management, risk assessment, and enhanced due diligence to support funding decisions.

Responsibilities include coordinating DD projects, conducting risk analysis, and presenting findings to senior leadership. Requires 5+ years in due diligence, AML knowledge, and ability to obtain security clearances. Spanish/Portuguese a plus.