We are partnering with a high-growth, FCA-authorised consumer finance business to appoint a Chief Risk Officer (CRO) at a pivotal stage in its evolution. This is a board-level role with full ownership of enterprise risk and a clear pathway to SMF4 as the firm scales.
The Opportunity
This organisation operates at the intersection of fintech and retail finance, providing accessible point‑of‑sale lending solutions to a broad customer base, including underserved and near‑prime segments. With significant growth ambitions and major regulatory change on the horizon, the CRO will play a critical role in shaping a scalable, forward‑looking risk function.
This is a hands‑on, high‑impact leadership role suited to an experienced risk professional who combines strong regulatory credibility with the ability to operate in a lean, fast‑moving environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Own and evolve the enterprise‑wide risk framework, including risk appetite and governance structures
- Deliver clear, insightful reporting to Board and Risk Committees
- Ensure alignment between UK operations and wider group risk standards
- Provide independent second‑line oversight of credit strategy and performance
- Monitor portfolio risk (arrears, defaults, concentrations) and challenge first‑line decision‑making
- Lead governance of credit models, including AI/ML decisioning frameworks
Regulatory & Conduct Risk
- Act as the primary senior contact for the FCA
- Own Consumer Duty and ensure strong customer outcomes, particularly for vulnerable segments
- Lead readiness for upcoming regulatory changes, including BNPL reforms
Operational & Technology Risk
- Oversee operational, cyber, fraud, and third‑party risk
- Ensure resilience and governance across digital platforms and infrastructure
Strategic Risk
- Partner with the CEO and Board on growth initiatives, new products, and market expansion
- Protect and enhance the firm’s reputation with regulators, partners, and customers
About You
- Currently operating at CRO / SMF4 level (or ready to step into that accountability) within an FCA‑regulated environment
- Deep expertise in consumer credit regulation (CONC, Consumer Duty, SMCR)
- Proven experience in credit risk within near‑prime / underserved segments
- Strong track record of direct FCA engagement at a senior level
- Comfortable balancing strategic leadership with hands‑on execution in a scaling business
- High levels of commercial judgement, regulatory credibility, and stakeholder influence
Why This Role?
- Opportunity to shape and build a scalable risk function from the ground up
- Direct exposure to Board and executive leadership
- Clear progression to SMF4 designation as the business grows
- A mission‑driven organisation focused on financial inclusion and responsible lending
If you’re looking for a role where you can combine regulatory leadership, commercial impact, and real influence on business growth, this is a rare opportunity to step into a defining CRO position.
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