Job Description 

Equity Bank is one of the region’s leading banks whose purpose is to transform the lives and livelihoods of the people of Africa socially and economically by availing them modern and inclusive financial services that maximize their opportunities. With a strong footprint in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, South Sudan and DRC Congo, Equity Bank is now home to over 12 million customers - the largest customer base in Africa. Currently the Bank is seeking additional talent to serve in the role of Manager Operational Risk.

Job Purpose:

The Manager Operational Risk, is responsible for overseeing and strengthening the bank’s operational risk management framework. The role involves identifying, assessing, monitoring, and mitigating risks arising from internal processes, people, systems, and external events. The incumbent will ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and best practices to safeguard the bank from financial and reputational losses

Key Responsibilities

Operational Risk Framework Implementation

• Develop, implement, and enhance the operational risk management framework, policies, and procedures in line with regulatory guidelines and industry best practices.
• Monitor and report key operational risk exposures and trends to senior management and risk committees.

Risk Identification, Assessment & Control

• Conduct operational risk assessments, including Risk Control Self-Assessments (RCSA) across business units.
• Identify key risk indicators (KRIs) and ensure continuous monitoring of operational risk exposures.
• Analyze risk events, root causes, and propose mitigation strategies to reduce operational risk incidents.

Incident Management & Loss Reporting

• Establish and maintain an operational risk event reporting and loss database.
• Investigate operational risk incidents and near misses, identifying lessons learned and recommending control enhancements.

Regulatory Compliance & Audit Liaison

• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, including CBK and Basel II/III operational risk guidelines.
• Act as a liaison for internal and external audits, ensuring timely resolution of audit findings.

Business Continuity & Crisis Management

• Support the implementation of business continuity plans (BCP) and disaster recovery strategies.
• Assist in crisis management planning, ensuring business resilience in the face of operational disruptions.

Operational Risk Awareness & Training

• Conduct training and awareness programs on operational risk management for bank employees.
• Promote a risk-aware culture through workshops, campaigns, and knowledge-sharing sessions.

Risk Monitoring & Reporting

• Prepare and present operational risk reports to senior management, risk committees, and regulators.
• Track and follow up on the implementation of corrective actions arising from risk assessments and incidents.

Qualifications And Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in finance, Risk Management, Business Administration, Accounting, or a related field. A Master’s degree is an added advantage.
• Certifications: Professional certifications such as ORM (Operational Risk Manager), CRISC (Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control), FRR, or FRM (Financial Risk Manager) are highly preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in operational risk management, internal audit, or compliance within banking or financial services.
• Knowledge of Regulatory Standards: CBK guidelines, Basel Accords (II & III), COSO, and ISO 31000 Risk Management Framework.

Key Competencies & Skills

• Operational Risk Management – Strong expertise in risk identification, assessment, and mitigation strategies.
• Risk & Control Assessments – Ability to conduct RCSA, process mapping, and risk identification exercises.
• Incident Investigation & Root Cause Analysis – Proficiency in analyzing operational risk events and designing control enhancements.
• Data Analytics & Reporting – Ability to use risk dashboards, loss databases, and key risk indicators for decision-making.
• Regulatory Compliance & Audit Management – Knowledge of operational risk regulatory requirements and audit best practices.