Head of UK Operational Risk and Controls

Head of UK Operational Risk and Controls

Job ID: 133117

Working hours: This role is available on a part‑time, job‑share or full‑time basis.

Location: Swindon with travel to London.

Responsibilities

• Carry out strategic risk assessments and analyses to identify risks at an early stage and ensure that measures are defined and monitored.
• Oversee and challenge first‑line of defence activities, validate findings and observations with relevant stakeholders, and verify the results.
• Develop and implement operational risk appetite and tolerance thresholds, and support the implementation of risk mitigation strategies, contingency plans and associated controls.
• Develop and implement strategies and frameworks for operational risk management that are aligned with the company’s goals and risk appetite.
• Lead the end‑to‑end implementation, oversight and continuous improvement of the Internal Control Integrated Framework, including second‑line assurance over control design and effectiveness, control testing, action plan remediation, and timely reporting to senior management, committees and boards.
• Ensure the organisation has effective structures and processes to manage operational risk and accompanying controls and facilitate the implementation of strategies and frameworks.
• Support and monitor the implementation of the Zurich Group Risk Management Framework (Risk Policy, Strategic and Operational Risk Management, Internal Control System, Business Resilience).
• Mentor and develop other professionals within the UK risk management team and contribute to global training and workforce development initiatives.

Qualifications

• Experience in control functions (1‑2‑3 Lines of Defence, compliance, audit, risk or other internal control and governance functions) and core insurance activities such as claims processing or underwriting.
• In‑depth knowledge of operational risk management principles, methods and best practices, including legal requirements, risk assessment and mitigation techniques, and risk reporting frameworks.
• Proven ability to work with senior executives and Independent Non‑Executive Directors.
• Strong focus on execution and results, strategic skills combined with solid operational skills, and the ability to drive change.
• Ability to deal with ambiguity, different requirements and demanding deadlines, and work independently or within a team.
• Excellent communication, influencing and negotiation skills, high service orientation, and the ability to think in a networked way.
• Good knowledge of insurance and regulatory requirements.
• Proven budgeting and project/program management skills.
• Knowledge in data analysis and data visualisation is desirable.

Benefits

• Financials
  • 12% defined non‑contributory pension scheme.
  • Annual company bonus.
  • Income protection.
  • Life cover – four times your salary.
• Time away
  • 28 days holiday a year plus bank holidays.
  • Option to swap UK bank holidays for days off that have cultural or religious significance.
  • Option to buy up to an additional 20 days or sell some of your holiday.
  • Three days paid volunteering.
  • Up to 16 weeks full pay for maternity, paternity and adoption leave.
• Health
  • Access to private medical insurance.
  • Virtual GP appointments.
  • Discounted gym membership.
  • Free flu jab.
  • Access to a wealth of support from wellbeing partners.
• Social Impact
  • Zurich Community Trust has awarded grants and volunteered time to valued causes in the UK.

We’re committed to treating all applicants fairly and with respect, irrespective of actual or assumed background, sexual orientation, disability or any other protected characteristic.

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