Senior Risk Manager

The Emirates Investment Authority (EIA) is the sole custodian of the wealth of the federal government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). As part of its mandate to protect and grow the wealth of the federal government, EIA manages a globally diversified portfolio. The Senior Risk Manager is a senior leadership role responsible for developing and overseeing the comprehensive risk management framework that supports EIA’s strategic goals and regulatory obligations. This role ensures that all investment risks are identified, assessed, and managed effectively across the organization.

Risk Management Framework

• Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of EIA’s risk management framework, ensuring alignment with global best practices and regulatory standards.
• Oversee the creation and enhancement of risk reporting processes to ensure timely and accurate monitoring of investment risks across the portfolio.

 Strategic Risk Management

• Provide strategic risk insights to the board and senior management to inform decision-making and safeguard the organization’s assets.
• Ensure that risk management strategies are integrated with EIA’s overall business strategy, particularly in investment decision-making processes.

 Compliance and Governance

• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and act as the primary liaison with external auditors and regulatory bodies on all matters related to risk management.
• Develop and maintain policies and procedures that reflect best practices in risk management and governance.

 Collaboration and Stakeholder Management

• Work closely with the Investment Teams to align portfolio risk management practices with overall investment objectives.
• Engage with cross-functional teams including Operations, Finance, and IT to ensure that necessary data and infrastructure are properly integrated with risk management tools.

 Risk Reporting and Analysis

• Lead the development of risk reports that enhance the monitoring of investment risk exposures, including quantitative and qualitative assessments.
• Perform in-depth analysis of the portfolio’s asset allocation, underlying investments, and associated risks (e.g., market risk, credit risk, liquidity risk).
• Conduct investment and operational due diligence across various asset classes, including traditional and alternative investments.

 Technology and Tools

• Utilize advanced risk management tools and software, including Python, R, SQL, and financial modeling systems, to analyze risk and automate reporting processes.
• Stay current with technological advancements and integrate relevant tools into EIA’s risk management processes.

 Leadership and Development

• Lead and mentor the risk management team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development.
• Develop and implement training programs to enhance the risk management capabilities across the organization.

Requirements

Educational Background

• Master’s degree in Finance, Economics, Mathematics, or a related field is preferred.
• Professional qualifications such as FRM, PRM, CFA, or CAIA are highly desirable, with an expectation to complete one within three years if not already obtained.

Required Experience

• A minimum of 8-10 years of experience in risk management, asset management, or a similar quantitative role, with a proven track record of managing complex risk categories.
• Strong knowledge and practical experience in Investment Risk Analysis.
• Demonstrated expertise in Operational Risk Management.
• In-depth understanding of Compliance and Regulatory Risk within financial services.
• Proven experience in Strategic and Enterprise Risk Management.
• Extensive background in Portfolio Risk Management with exposure to diversified asset classes.
• Proficiency in Technology and Risk Modeling, including the use of advanced software and analytical tools.
• Experience managing risks in Alternative Investments, including due diligence and risk assessments.
• Strong ability in Risk Reporting and Communication, particularly in presenting complex risk data to senior management and boards.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in Python, R, SQL, and financial modeling tools such as Barra One and Bloomberg.
• Advanced Excel and VBA skills, with the ability to automate tasks and reports.
• Familiarity with machine learning models and their application in risk management is an advantage.

Language Skills

• Fluency in English is required; proficiency in Arabic is an advantage.

Leadership

• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive strategic initiatives across the organization.
• Strong influencing skills, with the ability to communicate complex risk concepts to senior management and the board.

Analytical and Strategic Thinking

• Excellent problem-solving skills with a strategic mindset, capable of navigating complex challenges and driving solutions.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment.

Interpersonal Skills

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both oral and written, with the ability to build strong relationships across all levels of the organization.
• A collaborative team player with a genuine interest in the development and success of others.

Adaptability and Resilience

• Flexibility to work across different sectors and adapt to changing business needs.
• A proactive and positive attitude, with a drive to achieve goals and deliver results.