Director, Enterprise Risk Management
WFA Digital Insight
The demand for skilled risk management professionals in the fintech space has surged, with a reported 25% increase in job openings in the last year alone. As companies like Bakkt continue to push the boundaries of digital finance, the need for experts who can navigate complex regulatory landscapes and mitigate operational risks has never been more pressing. With Bakkt's commitment to innovation and customer trust, this role offers a unique chance to make a real impact in the industry. Candidates should be prepared to showcase their technical expertise, business acumen, and ability to thrive in a fast-paced, lean environment. Before applying, it's essential to understand the company's vision for the future of finance and how this role contributes to that mission.
Job Description
About the Role
The Director, Enterprise Risk Management will play a critical role in shaping Bakkt's risk management strategy, working closely with the Head of Risk to design, implement, and continuously improve the Enterprise Risk Management framework. This is a hands-on, individual contributor role that requires a unique blend of technical expertise, business acumen, and collaboration skills. As the company continues to expand its offerings and navigate the evolving regulatory landscape, the ability to adapt and innovate will be essential.The successful candidate will be a self-starter who can operate effectively in a lean, fast-scaling environment, with a willingness to roll up their sleeves and own the entire risk lifecycle. This includes everything from conducting enterprise-wide risk assessments and monitoring emerging risks to validating the design and implementation of remediation actions and tracking progress to closure.
Bakkt's commitment to innovation and customer trust means that the Director, Enterprise Risk Management will be working at the forefront of the digital finance industry, with the opportunity to make a real impact on the company's growth and success.
What You Will Do
- Design, implement, and continuously improve the Enterprise Risk Management framework, risk taxonomy, risk registers, and risk appetite statements specific to digital assets and regulated financial services.
- Provide strategic direction for risk mitigation and operational improvement initiatives, guiding them from conception through completion in partnership with First Line business owners.
- Validate the design and implementation of sustainable controls established by the First Line to address identified risks, audit findings, and compliance gaps.
- Maintain and evolve risk policies, standards, and procedures aligned with regulatory expectations and industry best practices.
- Oversee and drive risk mitigation efforts related to counterparty exposure, including the assessment and ongoing monitoring of institutional partners, custodians, market makers, and liquidity providers.
- Support business-centric risk initiatives across market risk, liquidity risk, and operational risk, providing Second Line challenge and guidance to First Line owners.
- Partner with business and product teams on the risk-clearing process for new product launches, token listings, and partner integrations, providing independent Second Line review.
- Conduct enterprise-wide risk assessments across financial, operational, strategic, and technological domains to evaluate enterprise risk levels.
- Monitor emerging risks and provide early warning and recommended actions to the Head of Risk and executive team.
- Oversee and drive risk mitigation tied to audit findings, regulatory exam observations, and self-identified issues, holding First Line owners accountable for execution and sustainability.
What We Are Looking For
- 8+ years of experience in risk management, preferably in the financial services or fintech industry.
- Strong technical skills, with the ability to leverage AI and automation to scale risk management capabilities.
- Proven experience in designing and implementing Enterprise Risk Management frameworks and risk management processes.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to navigate complex regulatory landscapes.
- Strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
- Experience working in a lean, fast-scaling environment, with a willingness to adapt and innovate.
- Strong understanding of digital assets and regulated financial services, including relevant laws and regulations.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a strong sense of ownership and accountability.
Nice to Have
- Experience with risk management tools and software, such as risk registers and tracking systems.
- Familiarity with agile development methodologies and DevOps practices.
- Knowledge of cloud-based technologies and infrastructure.
- Experience working with AI and machine learning technologies.
- Certification in risk management, such as CRMA or FRM.
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive compensation package, with opportunities for growth and advancement.
- Comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Generous PTO policy, with flexible work arrangements and remote work options.
- Opportunity to work with a cutting-edge technology stack and innovative products.
- Collaborative and dynamic work environment, with a team of experienced professionals.
- Professional development opportunities, including training and certification programs.
- Access to a network of industry experts and thought leaders.
- Flexible and autonomous work environment, with a focus on results and impact.
How to Stand Out
- tip: Showcase your technical expertise in risk management, including experience with risk management frameworks and tools.
- tip: Highlight your ability to work effectively in a lean, fast-scaling environment, with a willingness to adapt and innovate.
- tip: Demonstrate your understanding of digital assets and regulated financial services, including relevant laws and regulations.
- tip: Emphasize your strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to navigate complex regulatory landscapes.
- tip: Be prepared to discuss your experience working with cross-functional teams, including business and product teams.
- tip: Show a passion for innovation and customer trust, and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to Bakkt's mission and values.
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