Group Risk Assurance Controls Manager (80–100%)

Group Risk Assurance Controls Manager (80–100%)

We are seeking an experienced, proactive, and strategic Risk Assurance Controls Manager to join the Operational Risk Management department in Switzerland. This role sits within the second line of defense and carries full ownership of the Group’s risk assurance and control testing framework, including the design, execution, and continuous enhancement of assurance plans.

The successful candidate will lead and develop control testing activities across the organization, provide independent oversight over first line risk and control frameworks, and deliver high-impact insights to senior management and governance bodies. The role includes direct line management responsibility and requires a strong ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.

YOUR ROLE

Leadership & Ownership

• Own, design, and continuously enhance the Group-wide risk assurance control testing framework and annual assurance plan
• Lead and develop a small team (1 FTE), providing coaching, priority setting, and performance oversight
• Act as a subject matter expert and key point of contact for control assurance topics across the organization
• Drive consistency, quality, and efficiency in control testing methodologies and outputs

Control Testing Strategy & Execution

• Define, implement, and execute a risk-based control testing strategy aligned with regulatory expectations and internal priorities
• Oversee and perform periodic and ad-hoc control testing across business units and processes
• Ensure comprehensive coverage of key risks and controls, with a forward-looking and thematic approach
• Challenge the design and operating effectiveness of controls, identifying systemic weaknesses and emerging risks
• Ensure high-quality documentation of testing procedures, results, and conclusions

Second Line of Defense Oversight

• Provide independent oversight and challenge of first line risk management and control frameworks
• Assess the adequacy of Risk & Control Self-Assessments (RCSAs) and other first line control activities
• Engage with senior stakeholders to provide expert opinions on control effectiveness and risk exposure
• Collaborate with Internal Audit and other assurance functions to ensure alignment and avoid duplication

Reporting & Stakeholder Engagement

• Deliver clear, concise, and impactful reporting to senior management, risk committees, and governing bodies
• Escalate key issues, trends, and systemic control weaknesses in a timely manner
• Provide actionable recommendations to strengthen the control environment and mitigate risks
• Act as a trusted advisor to business and control functions on control design and assurance matters

Issue Management & Follow-up

• Oversee the tracking and validation of remediation actions for identified control deficiencies
• Ensure timely closure of issues and appropriate root cause analysis
• Monitor recurring themes and drive improvements at a structural level

Continuous Improvement & Strategy

• Drive the evolution of the risk assurance framework, methodologies, and toolsets, leveraging data-driven approaches where possible
• Stay up to date with evolving regulation (e.g., FINMA, Basel guidelines) and industry best practices
• Promote a strong risk and control culture across the organization
• Contribute to broader operational risk management initiatives and strategic projects

YOUR PROFILE

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Finance, Business Administration, Risk Management, Accounting, or a related field
• Minimum 5–7 years of experience in private banking or financial services, with significant exposure to operational risk, internal controls, audit, or risk assurance functions
• Proven experience in leading control testing programs and managing assurance activities
• Prior people management or mentoring experience is required
• Strong understanding of the three lines of defense model and governance structures within private banking
• Deep expertise in control testing methodologies, RCSAs, and control frameworks
• Strong knowledge of banking operations, regulatory requirements (FINMA, Basel) and industry standards
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify systemic risks
• Strong communication and influencing skills, with the ability to challenge constructively and engage senior stakeholders
• Proficiency in MS Office; experience with data analytics and GRC tools is highly desirable
• Fluent in English and French; additional languages are an asset