Head of Risk Management

About the role

A Hong Kong-based brokerage and diversified financial services firm with a 40-year track record is preparing regulated operations in Oman and obtaining the relevant licences from the Financial Services Authority (FSA) of Oman. It is seeking an experienced Head of Risk Management to report directly to the Board of Directors / CEO. The role will set up the local risk management framework, support the licensing process, build the risk team and ensure robust controls across securities brokerage, margin financing, new products and business initiatives in line with Omani law, FSA regulations and international best practice.

Key responsibilities

• Develop, implement and enhance risk management policies, procedures, methodologies and control frameworks.
• Lead credit control, margin call management and credit approval for margin clients in the securities brokerage business.
• Review and advise on credit limit applications for securities, futures and options businesses.
• Provide business requirements for IT systems related to risk management and regulatory needs, and take part in user acceptance testing (UAT).
• Assess risks of new products and business initiatives and set up risk policies, procedures, systems and daily monitoring workflows.
• Prepare regular risk management reports and regulatory submissions required by the FSA or other authorities.
• Build, lead and develop the local risk management team.
• Work with senior management, business teams, compliance, operations and technology to maintain a strong risk culture.

Required profile

• Minimum 8-10 years of risk management experience in the securities industry; securities brokerage and margin financing experience is essential.
• At least 6 years of relevant experience in large securities firms or financial institutions.
• Bachelor's degree or above in Risk Management, Finance, Business Administration or a related field.
• FRM, CFA or other professional risk or financial management qualifications preferred.
• Excellent written and spoken English is essential; Mandarin is an advantage.

Required skills

• Strong knowledge of credit risk methods, risk control processes and margin financing controls.
• In-depth understanding of local regulations for brokerage and margin business in Oman; familiarity with FSA requirements is highly desirable.
• Experience in system implementation, project management and/or UAT.
• Leadership, communication, stakeholder management and professional ethics.