Principal Risk Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is an international financial institution established in 199

• Its mission is to promote the transition to open market-oriented economies and to foster private and entrepreneurial initiative in the countries where it operates. The EBRD is headquartered in London and has a diverse workforce of over 2,000 employees from various nationalities and backgrounds. The bank operates in more than 30 countries across Europe, Central Asia, and the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean, focusing on sectors such as infrastructure, energy, and financial institutions. The EBRD is committed to sustainability, equality, and digital transformation, making it a leader in promoting economic development and social progress in its regions of operation.

Job Overview:
The Principal Risk Officer will play a crucial role within the Country and FI Credit Risk Management Team, focusing on the independent analysis and appraisal of risks associated with EBRD’s portfolio of financial institution (FI) debt transactions and Treasury operations. This position requires a deep understanding of credit risk management, including the identification and execution of due diligence, risk mitigation strategies, and transaction structuring. The Principal Risk Officer will also be responsible for preparing analytical data and communicating trends in the portfolio to support strategic decision-making and stress-testing. Additionally, this role involves coaching and supervising Associate Risk Officers and Analysts, ensuring that the team operates effectively and efficiently in managing credit risks. The job holder will also be a key member of the Treasury Counterparty Risk Team, managing credit risk for Treasury operations and providing expert judgment on counterparty assessments and banking sector analyses.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Principal Risk Officer will have a wide range of responsibilities, including acting as the Primary Risk Manager for a portfolio of Treasury counterparties, monitoring and managing credit risks associated with EBRD's Treasury activities, and conducting annual credit reviews and assessments. The role involves negotiating credit terms in legal agreements, monitoring financial market developments, and ensuring compliance with risk limits and legal documentation. The Principal Risk Officer will also develop and update credit policy documents, provide support and mentoring to junior team members, and participate in cross-departmental projects. The position requires the ability to analyze projects rapidly, make authoritative recommendations, and communicate effectively with stakeholders. The job holder must demonstrate a solution-oriented approach and a collaborative working style, reflecting an understanding of the perspectives of others.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in a relevant discipline such as Finance, Business, or Economics. Relevant experience in financial services, particularly in FI Credit Risk or Counterparty Credit Risk, is essential. A strong knowledge of financial and capital markets, Treasury-related products, and ISDA documentation is required. Candidates should have proven ability to make sound credit decisions in higher-risk environments and possess advanced skills in Excel, PowerPoint, and Word. Experience with VBA, Power BI, and Tableau is advantageous. Excellent stakeholder management skills and the ability to communicate complex issues clearly are also necessary for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Finance, Business, Economics, or a related field. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of financial markets and risk management practices.

Experience:
The position requires relevant experience in financial services, with a preference for candidates who have worked in FI Credit Risk or Counterparty Credit Risk. Experience in negotiating ISDA documentation and managing exposures in various jurisdictions is highly valued. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of credit risk analysis and best practices, particularly in relation to financial institutions such as banks and insurance companies.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as the role involves extensive communication with stakeholders and the preparation of reports. Additional languages may be beneficial but are not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a regular contract type. The EBRD promotes a flexible working environment, expecting employees to attend the office 50% of their working time. The bank values diversity and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of their background. Due to the high volume of applications, the EBRD may not provide detailed feedback to candidates who are not shortlisted.