Lead Risk Manager - Credit Division

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Medical aid and retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 represents a leading financial services institution seeking a strategic Lead Risk Manager to oversee the credit risk division in George, Western Cape. The role requires developing and implementing credit risk strategies, policies, and procedures, with a strong focus on risk scoring models and regulatory compliance.

The successful candidate will lead a team of risk professionals, perform stress testing, and present insights to senior management.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Finance, Economics, Statistics, Mathematics, or related quantitative field.
• 8+ years in credit risk management with leadership experience.
• In-depth knowledge of credit risk modeling and Basel frameworks.
• Proven ability to develop and implement risk strategies.
• Strong quantitative skills and experience with SAS/R and advanced Excel.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team management skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement credit risk management frameworks and policies.
• Oversee credit risk across loan portfolio.
• Design, validate, and monitor credit scoring models and early warning systems.
• Ensure regulatory compliance with national and international standards.
• Lead and mentor the credit risk analytics team.
• Conduct stress testing and scenario analysis on credit portfolios.
• Collaborate with business units on risk for new products/markets.
• Prepare risk reports for senior management and board.

Skills

Leadership

Credit risk modeling

Portfolio management

Regulatory frameworks (Basel III/IV)

SAS

R

Excel

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Finance or related quantitative field

Tools

SAS

R

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading financial services institution, is actively seeking an experienced and strategic Lead Risk Manager to oversee the credit risk division in George, Western Cape . This senior position is critical for safeguarding the company's assets and ensuring robust risk management practices across all credit-related activities. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring comprehensive credit risk strategies, policies, and procedures. This role requires a deep understanding of credit scoring models, portfolio management, regulatory requirements (such as Basel Accords), and the ability to lead a team of dedicated risk professionals. The position is based on-site in our George offices, fostering a collaborative and hands-on approach to risk mitigation and strategic oversight within the vibrant Banking & Finance landscape of the Western Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement effective credit risk management frameworks and policies.
• Oversee the assessment and management of credit risk across the organization's loan portfolio.
• Design, validate, and monitor credit scoring models and early warning systems.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant national and international banking regulations.
• Lead and mentor the credit risk analysis team, fostering professional development.
• Conduct regular stress testing and scenario analysis on the credit portfolio.
• Collaborate with business units to identify and mitigate credit risks associated with new products and markets.
• Prepare and present comprehensive risk reports to senior management and the board of directors.
• Manage relationships with external auditors and regulatory bodies concerning credit risk.
• Stay abreast of industry best practices and emerging trends in credit risk management.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Finance, Economics, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related quantitative discipline.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in credit risk management within the financial services industry, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• In-depth knowledge of credit risk modeling, portfolio management, regulatory frameworks (e.g., Basel III/IV), and financial markets.
• Proven ability to develop and implement effective risk management strategies.
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills, with proficiency in statistical software (e.g., SAS, R) and advanced Excel.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Experience in a client-facing or relationship management context is a plus.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex financial data and make sound recommendations.

Benefits

• Highly competitive base salary and performance incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for international training and development.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates.
• A key leadership role within a stable and reputable financial institution in George .
• Exposure to diverse financial products and markets.