Information Technology Risk Specialist

This review offers a comprehensive look at the Information Technology Risk Specialist (AVP) role based in London, aimed at assisting prospective candidates in evaluating this opportunity and its potential impact on their career trajectory.

An Exciting Opportunity in Global IT Risk Management

This position offers a compelling entry point into the critical domain of Information Technology Risk within a globally recognized financial institution. As part of the 2nd Line of Defence (LoD) IT Risk Team, you'll be an integral player in a dynamic, international team responsible for monitoring and assessing IT risks across the entire Group. This role provides a unique vantage point, allowing you to deliver independent assessments of IT risks to senior management and regulators. The scope of work is broad and impactful, encompassing:

• Conducting thorough risk assessments.
• Performing targeted reviews to identify and address vulnerabilities.
• Analyzing root causes of IT incidents and thematic issues.
• Evaluating risks associated with new business products and transformations.
• Supporting responses to regulatory exams and enquiries.
• Analyzing emerging IT risks to ensure proactive risk mitigation.

Key Advantages for Aspiring Candidates:

• Global Exposure and Collaboration: Be part of a diverse, 12-person global team with colleagues in Singapore, Mumbai, Frankfurt, Milan, London, Jacksonville, and New York. This offers unparalleled opportunities for cross-cultural collaboration and a broad understanding of international risk landscapes.
• Strategic Impact: Your work will directly inform senior management and regulators, ensuring the secure and compliant operation of a leading financial institution. You'll be instrumental in shaping the organization's IT risk posture.
• Career Development and Growth: The organization emphasizes employee development and wellbeing. You can expect dedicated training, coaching from experts, and a culture of continuous learning, all designed to support your progression.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Beyond a competitive salary and a generous pension contribution, the role includes 30 days of holiday (plus bank holidays, with options to purchase more), life assurance, private healthcare, and a range of flexible benefits tailored to your lifestyle, such as retail discounts and gym memberships.
• Modern Working Environment: Benefit from a hybrid working model that acknowledges evolving employee preferences, allowing for a balance between in-office collaboration and remote flexibility.
• Meaningful Contribution: Engage with a wide-ranging Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program and contribute through two days of paid volunteering leave annually.

Important Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Deep IT Risk Understanding: A strong foundational understanding of Information Technology and its application within financial services is essential. Familiarity with IT Risk Frameworks like COBIT and ITIL, along with key IT regulatory laws such as DORA and EBA guidelines, will be crucial for success.
• Financial Services Experience: Prior experience working within a bank, specifically in either the IT 1st Line of Defence or IT Risk 2nd Line of Defence, is highly valued and will provide a strong starting point.
• Analytical and Communication Prowess: The ability to conduct strong analytical reviews and communicate complex findings clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing, is paramount given the advisory nature of the role and the need to engage with diverse stakeholders.
• Technology Proficiency: While experience with end-user IT systems like MS 365 is beneficial, further experience with reporting and business intelligence systems like Tableau or Power BI is considered an advantage, indicating a capacity for data-driven analysis and impactful reporting.
• Operational Risk Awareness: An understanding of Operational Risk Management principles will be advantageous, as IT risk is a significant component of the broader operational risk landscape in financial institutions.

This Information Technology Risk Specialist role presents a significant opportunity for a driven professional looking to make a tangible impact within a global financial leader. It's an ideal position for individuals eager to deepen their expertise in IT risk, contribute to robust governance, and advance their careers within a supportive and forward-thinking environment.