Head of Operational Risk Technology and Transformation

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Emirates NBD is seeking Head of Operational Risk Technology and Transformation in Dubai to drive risk transformation, lead major programmes, and represent the Risk function at governance forums. You will own delivery, coordinate Business, Risk and IT teams, manage vendors, and push automation with SAS, Python and Power BI while ensuring regulatory and audit reporting is robust. The ideal candidate has a degree from a reputed institution, FRM or CFA preferred, 10+ years leading large programmes, and strong knowledge of risk platforms and data governance. To apply, tailor your CV to highlight delivery outcomes, stakeholder leadership, budget ownership, and impact, cross-functional influence.

Job Purpose

This role is accountable for enterprise-wide operational risk transformation and leads the functional roll-out of major transformation programmes. The role represents the Operational Risk function at senior governance forums and acts as the primary external regulatory representative for operational risk system infrastructure matters.

Key Responsibilities

Project Delivery & Ownership

• Deliver Operational Risk project roadmaps in collaboration with stakeholders.
• Lead Operational Risk projects and portfolio analysis initiatives.
• Act as a liaison between Business and IT teams.
• Coordinate with Business, Risk, IT and external vendors to ensure successful project outcomes.
• Facilitate working groups and obtain stakeholder consensus.
• Drive automation and process simplification using tools such as SAS, Python and Power BI.
• Manage vendors throughout requirements gathering, design and UAT phases.
• Ensure IT deliverables are completed within agreed timelines.
• Recommend implementation alternatives and obtain senior management approvals.
• Lead functional discussions during senior management forums.
• Ensure infrastructure capabilities support regulatory, audit and management reporting requirements.
• Drive closure of audit observations owned by Risk teams.

Insurance Management

• Manage annual renewals and ensure no gaps in insurance coverage.
• Maintain policy documentation, endorsements, warranties and coverage schedules.
• Benchmark insurance arrangements against GCC banking peers.
• Manage broker relationships and service delivery.
• Maintain insurance claims registers and oversee recovery and notification processes.

Compliance & Regulatory Management

• Ensure compliance with internal policies and procedures.
• Analyse new CBUAE regulations impacting Operational Risk.
• Conduct gap assessments and compliance planning.
• Own and coordinate closure of system infrastructure observations raised by regulators.

Skills and Experience

Analytical Capability

Ability to understand business problems and deliver innovative solutions.

Market, Industry & Business Awareness

Maintains deep understanding of banking industry trends, market developments and best practices.

Interpersonal Skills

Excellent written, verbal and presentation skills.

Leadership Capability

Demonstrates strong leadership and sound judgement, making informed decisions while consulting stakeholders appropriately. 

Person Specification

Education

• Degree from a reputed institution (e.g. IIT or equivalent).
• Professional qualification in Finance or Risk Management.
• FRM or CFA qualification preferred.

Experience

• More than 10 years of experience leading large, multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience with risk systems and analytical models.
• Proven delivery ownership of large-scale risk and transformation programmes.
• Experience managing significant programme budgets.

Knowledge & Skills

• Strong understanding of operational risk platforms, fraud management and alert management systems.
• Knowledge of banking regulations and risk management frameworks.
• Sound understanding of wholesale and retail banking products.
• Experience in data governance and risk technology transformation.

Behavioural Competencies

• Original thinker with a positive attitude.
• Strong team player.
• Problem-solving mindset focused on improvement and continuous learning.

There’s never been a better time to join Emirates NBD.

We’re one of the region’s most recognized banking brands and continue to invest in innovation, talent, and professional development. At Emirates NBD, you’ll have the opportunity to work alongside highly skilled professionals, contribute to strategic initiatives across the Group, and build a rewarding career in a dynamic and collaborative environment. We offer competitive benefits, flexible working opportunities where applicable, and an inclusive workplace that supports continuous learning and growth. We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications and apply for positions that match their skills and aspirations.

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