Senior Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC) Specialist - Banking

About the Role

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC) Specialist to join our dynamic team in Saudi Arabia. This pivotal role will be responsible for overseeing and enhancing our organization’s governance, risk management, and compliance frameworks, ensuring alignment with regulatory requirements and industry best practices. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of banking regulations, risk assessment methodologies, and compliance frameworks to drive strategic initiatives and mitigate potential risks.

Key Responsibilities

• Regulatory Compliance: Monitor and ensure adherence to local and international banking regulations, including SAMA (Saudi Central Bank), Basel III, and other relevant standards. Develop and implement compliance policies, procedures, and controls to mitigate regulatory risks.
• Risk Management: Lead the identification, assessment, and mitigation of operational, financial, and reputational risks. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate risk management practices into business processes and decision-making.
• Governance Frameworks: Establish and maintain robust governance structures to promote transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct. Oversee the implementation of governance frameworks in alignment with corporate objectives and stakeholder expectations.
• Internal Audits & Assessments: Coordinate and support internal audits, risk assessments, and compliance reviews. Identify control gaps and recommend corrective actions to enhance operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.
• Training & Awareness: Develop and deliver training programs to educate employees on governance, risk, and compliance best practices. Foster a culture of compliance and risk awareness across the organization.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Act as a liaison between senior management, regulatory bodies, and external auditors. Provide expert guidance on GRC matters and represent the organization in regulatory discussions and industry forums.
• Technology & Innovation: Leverage GRC software and tools to automate processes, enhance monitoring capabilities, and improve reporting accuracy. Stay abreast of technological advancements in GRC to drive continuous improvement.

Qualifications & Skills

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field. A master’s degree or professional certification (e.g., CISA, CRCM, or CAMS) is highly desirable.
• Experience: Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in governance, risk management, or compliance within the banking sector. Prior exposure to SAMA, Basel III, or other regulatory frameworks is essential.
• Technical Proficiency: Strong knowledge of GRC frameworks, risk assessment methodologies, and compliance tools. Familiarity with data analytics and reporting tools is a plus.
• Soft Skills: Exceptional analytical, communication, and leadership skills. Ability to influence stakeholders, manage complex projects, and drive organizational change.
• Certifications: Relevant certifications such as Certified Risk Manager (CRM), Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP), or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) are advantageous.

Why Join Us?

As a Senior GRC Specialist, you will play a critical role in safeguarding our organization’s reputation and ensuring sustainable growth. You will have the opportunity to work in a collaborative environment, contribute to strategic initiatives, and advance your career in a dynamic and evolving industry. We offer competitive compensation, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work culture that values innovation and excellence.