Specialist: Operational Risk Job Vacancy at NMB Bank, Southern Zone October 2025

Specialist: Operational Risk

(1 Position)
Job Location: Southern Zone

Job Purpose

The Specialist, Operational Risk, is responsible for supporting and driving the implementation of a robust and effective Operational Risk Management Framework across branches in the Southern Zone. The role ensures strong internal controls, effective processes, and appropriate oversight mechanisms are in place to align with the Bank’s Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) Framework.

Main Responsibilities

Risk Assessment, Analysis & Reporting

• Ensure branches conduct Risk and Control Self-Assessments (RCSAs) in line with Operational Risk guidelines.
• Support periodic control testing and independent assurance reviews to validate the effectiveness of key operational controls.
• Facilitate training and awareness sessions for branch teams on risk management standards, policies, incident reporting, and control ownership.
• Monitor implementation of risk mitigation actions and escalate delays or deviations to the Risk and Compliance Committee (RCC).
• Capture and track all risk governance issues and findings using Teammate or any other designated Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) system.
• Conduct thematic reviews and trend analysis on recurring risk issues, recommending corrective measures to address systemic weaknesses.
• Lead and drive the execution of risk management training plans across the branch network.
• Ensure timely reporting and quality analysis of risk incidents on the GCM system, verifying data accuracy and adherence to reporting standards.
• Support branches in implementing and monitoring Key Risk Indicators (KRIs), ensuring issues are tracked and resolved within set timelines.
• Consolidate and produce zonal operational risk reports (RCSA, KRI, Incident data) for governance committees such as RCC, EXCO, and MARCC.
• Keep Zonal and Branch Managers updated on operational deficiencies and corrective action progress.
• Provide risk advisory support to zonal and branch management on daily operations, emerging risks, and policy interpretations.
• Participate in risk assessments for new or significant branch-related projects and initiatives.
• Conduct physical security assessments to ensure compliance with established safety and control standards.
• Safeguard the bank from financial and non-financial losses by ensuring branch staff understand and apply all control parameters effectively.
• Participate in zonal meetings to promote risk awareness and communicate key initiatives.
• Monitor and report reputational risk triggers such as customer complaints, staff conduct, and negative media or social media mentions.
• Identify and report product-related risks including transaction errors, frequent reversals, or process gaps that indicate control weaknesses.
• Support periodic product risk reviews, validating branch compliance with internal product guidelines.
• Coordinate root cause analyses and corrective action tracking for repeat or high-risk customer complaints.
• Maintain a comprehensive log of emerging risks at the branch level, capturing new internal or external developments that may impact operations.

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong understanding of retail and commercial banking operations.
• Proficiency in reporting, data analysis, and risk assessment methodologies.
• In-depth knowledge of risk management tools, frameworks, and control design principles.
• Familiarity with core banking operational processes and related control frameworks.
• Excellent analytical, facilitation, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong teamwork, communication, and interpersonal abilities.
• Technical skills in risk management (assessment, testing, and mitigation).
• Effective time management and the ability to balance multiple priorities.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Studies, Social Sciences, or related field.
• Master’s degree in Business Studies is an added advantage.
• Professional banking or risk certifications are an added advantage.
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in Risk Management, Audit, or related banking functions.
• Prior experience in auditing, operational risk, or compliance roles is preferred.

Additional Information

• NMB Bank Plc is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating a diverse and gender-balanced workforce.
• Female candidates and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
• NMB Bank Plc does not charge any fee at any stage of the application or recruitment process. If you are asked for payment, please disregard such requests.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Job Opening Date: 22 October 2025
Job Closing Date: 05 November 2025