Risk Management Officer

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to save, protect, and transform lives in need, CRS operates in more than 100 countries, providing assistance without regard to race, religion, or nationality. The organization focuses on various areas including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. CRS is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, and it welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds who share its values and commitment to serving those in need. The agency's processes and policies reflect its dedication to protecting the rights and dignity of all individuals, particularly those who are most vulnerable. The organization also emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct and adherence to its Code of Conduct by all staff members.

Job Overview:
The Risk Management Officer will be responsible for managing risk-related functions within the Country Program (CP) in accordance with CRS policies, local laws, and donor regulations. This role is crucial for ensuring the effective implementation of high-quality programs that benefit poor and vulnerable populations. The officer will leverage their expertise to mitigate risks to staff, program effectiveness, and the communities served, applying principles of good stewardship, integrity, transparency, accountability, and responsibility. Given the complex and dynamic operational environment in eastern DRC, the officer will work closely with various stakeholders to enhance internal control systems and continuously improve process performance. The position requires proactive identification of risk-related challenges and the development of appropriate solutions, as well as collaboration with internal and external partners to ensure compliance and effective risk management practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Key responsibilities include collaborating with audit, risk, and compliance managers at headquarters and regional levels, as well as with CP management to implement and strengthen internal control systems. The officer will anticipate and identify risk-related issues, propose solutions, and support the implementation of the Sub-Recipient Financial Management Policy. They will plan and conduct internal audits, compliance reviews, and assessments at program sites, including field locations in Kasaï, Kivus, Tanganyika, and Ituri. The officer will design and facilitate risk-related training sessions and contribute to capacity-building plans for CRS and its partners. They will serve as a liaison for external audits, coordinate action plans to address audit findings, and ensure timely follow-up on recommendations. Additionally, the officer will conduct annual evaluations of internal control procedures, manage talent effectively, and provide coaching and performance management for direct reports. They will also identify capacity-building needs and provide guidance to project teams and partners, ensuring a safe environment for sharing ideas and addressing challenges.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree, with a Master’s degree in Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field preferred. Accounting or audit certification is highly desirable, along with Lean/Six Sigma Green Belt or Project Management Professional certifications. A minimum of 5 years of work experience is required, ideally with an international organization, with progressive responsibility in operations and/or programming. At least 3 years of this experience should involve audit, compliance, or risk management. Knowledge of audit standards and compliance regulations, as well as familiarity with COSO’s Internal Control Framework or the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing, is essential. Strong analytical, organizational, and relationship management skills are also required, along with the ability to exercise sound judgment in challenging situations.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree as a minimum requirement, with a preference for candidates holding a Master’s degree in relevant fields such as Accounting or Business Administration. Professional certifications in accounting or auditing are strongly preferred, as well as certifications in Lean/Six Sigma or Project Management.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience, ideally within an international organization. Candidates should have progressively responsible roles in operations or programming, with at least 3 years specifically focused on audit, compliance, or risk management. This experience should demonstrate the ability to manage complex projects and navigate challenging environments effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in French and English is required for this position. Practical knowledge of Lingala, Swahili, or other relevant local languages is considered an advantage, enhancing communication and collaboration within the local context.

Additional Notes:
The position may require travel up to 30-40%, depending on security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security conditions and access constraints. Travel will be conducted in accordance with CRS security protocols and any applicable restrictions in conflict-affected areas. The role involves supervision responsibilities and requires the ability to manage team dynamics and staff well-being effectively. CRS is committed to safeguarding program participants and staff from all forms of exploitation and abuse, and the successful candidate will be expected to adhere to the organization's Code of Conduct. The job description is not exhaustive and may evolve as needed.