Role Overview for Head of Risk Management with a Commercial Bank – Charlotte, NC
JRG Partners is proud to conduct an exclusive search for a dynamic and visionary Head of Risk Management on behalf of our client, a prestigious and rapidly growing commercial bank headquartered in the vibrant financial hub of Charlotte, North Carolina. This is a critical executive leadership position reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer and playing a pivotal role in the strategic direction and long-term stability of the institution. The successful candidate will be an integral member of the executive leadership team, responsible for the development, implementation, and oversight of the bank’s comprehensive Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) framework.
In today’s complex and evolving regulatory landscape, the Head of Risk Management is more than a compliance officer; they are a strategic partner to the business, enabling sustainable growth by identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks across the entire organization. This role demands a leader with exceptional business acumen, a deep understanding of all risk disciplines—including credit, market, liquidity, operational, compliance, and strategic risk—and the gravitas to influence and advise the Board of Directors and senior management.
You will be tasked with cultivating a robust risk-aware culture that permeates every level of the bank, ensuring that risk management is not just a function, but a shared responsibility. The ideal candidate will possess a forward-thinking mindset, capable of anticipating future challenges and opportunities, from emerging cybersecurity threats to macroeconomic shifts. You will lead a dedicated team of risk professionals, providing mentorship, guidance, and strategic direction to build a best-in-class risk management function that serves as a competitive advantage for the bank.
Key Responsibilities of Head of Risk Management with a Commercial Bank – Charlotte, NC
The Head of Risk Management will have a broad and impactful mandate, overseeing all aspects of the bank’s risk profile. Key responsibilities include:
Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) Framework
Design, implement, and continuously enhance the bank’s ERM program. This includes establishing the risk governance structure, defining the risk appetite statement in collaboration with the Board, and developing comprehensive risk policies and procedures. You will champion the integration of industry-leading enterprise risk management (ERM) frameworks to ensure a holistic view of risk across the organization.
Credit Risk Oversight
Provide independent oversight of the bank’s credit risk profile. This involves challenging and validating credit policies, underwriting standards, and portfolio concentration limits. You will oversee loan review processes, manage the Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses (ALLL) methodology, and lead credit-related stress testing initiatives.
Operational Risk Management
Develop and maintain a robust operational risk framework, including Risk and Control Self-Assessments (RCSAs), Key Risk Indicator (KRI) monitoring, and loss data analysis. Oversee the bank’s Business Continuity Planning (BCP), disaster recovery, and third-party vendor risk management programs to ensure operational resilience.
Market and Liquidity Risk Management
Oversee the identification, measurement, and management of market and liquidity risk. This includes monitoring interest rate risk (IRR), asset/liability management (ALM) strategies, and the investment portfolio’s risk profile, ensuring the bank maintains adequate liquidity to meet its obligations under various market conditions.
Regulatory and Compliance Oversight
Serve as a key point of contact for regulatory bodies, including the OCC, FDIC, and the Federal Reserve. Ensure the bank’s compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, such as the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA), Anti-Money Laundering (AML) rules, and other consumer protection regulations. Proactively monitor the regulatory environment for changes that may impact the bank.
Strategic Leadership and Advisory
Act as a trusted advisor to the CEO, executive team, and Board of Directors on all risk-related matters. Provide insightful analysis and reporting on the bank’s risk profile, contributing to strategic planning, new product development, and major business initiatives.
Team Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of risk management professionals. Foster a collaborative and proactive culture within the risk department and across the bank, promoting continuous learning and professional development.
Risk Culture Cultivation
Champion a strong, proactive risk management culture throughout the institution. Develop and deliver training programs to ensure all employees understand their role in managing risk effectively.
Requirements for the Head of Risk Management with a Commercial Bank – Charlotte, NC
This executive role requires a seasoned professional with a proven track record of leadership in banking and risk management. The ideal candidate will meet the following qualifications:
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree (e.g., Master’s in Finance) is highly preferred.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in risk management within the banking or financial services industry. At least 7-10 years of experience in a senior leadership capacity, managing multiple risk disciplines and leading teams. Direct experience in a commercial banking environment is essential.
Regulatory Acumen
Extensive experience interacting with federal and state banking regulators is mandatory. The candidate must have a deep and current understanding of the regulatory landscape affecting commercial banks.
Technical Expertise
Comprehensive knowledge across all major risk stripes: credit, operational, market, liquidity, compliance, and strategic risk. Proven ability to develop and implement ERM frameworks, risk appetite statements, and sophisticated risk models.
Leadership Skills
Demonstrated ability to lead, influence, and build consensus at all levels of an organization, from front-line staff to the Board of Directors. A proven track record of building and developing high-performing teams.
Analytical and Quantitative Skills
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. The ability to interpret complex data and translate it into actionable business insights and strategic recommendations.
Communication Skills
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex risk concepts clearly and concisely to diverse audiences, including regulators, executives, and board members.
Certifications
Professional certifications such as Financial Risk Manager (FRM), Professional Risk Manager (PRM), or Certified Enterprise Risk Professional (CERP) are highly desirable.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent and offers a highly competitive executive compensation and benefits package, including:
Competitive Base Salary
An attractive six-figure base salary commensurate with experience and market standards.
Executive Bonus Program
A significant annual incentive bonus potential based on individual and bank performance.
Long-Term Incentives
Participation in an equity or long-term incentive plan (LTIP) to align your success with the bank’s growth.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match and potential for profit-sharing contributions.
Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
A competitive PTO policy, including vacation, sick leave, and paid company holidays.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for continuing education, professional certifications, and industry conference attendance.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for qualified candidates moving to the Charlotte area.
Additional Perks
Includes executive life and disability insurance, wellness programs, and other perquisites.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is the exclusive retained search firm for this confidential opportunity. To be considered for this pivotal leadership role, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and interest. All applications will be handled with the utmost discretion and confidentiality. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
To learn more about our expertise in this sector and to submit your application, please visit our practice area page: JRG Partners Banking and Financial Services Executive Search.
