Chief Risk Officer (CRO)
San Francisco, CA
Full Time
Senior Executive
Where it all began…
In 1951 SF Fire Credit Union first opened its doors from a modest 10′ × 15′ office space in 17 Engine. It was from those humble beginnings—where everyone pitched in to help one another in their community—that the organization forged its way of business forever. Today, the San Francisco-based credit union has grown to $1.7B in assets and a membership that extends from the regional firefighters we trace our roots back to throughout our many neighbors in San Francisco, San Mateo, and Marin Counties. Our members benefit from the ideas and principles that have shaped us: Shared trust, continuous innovation of products and services, competitive rates, and excellent member service. These qualities foster a true sense of member-ownership and strengthen the credit union’s bond with the people for whom this credit union was created.
What we stand for…
There are a few things we look for those we hire at SF Fire Credit Union, regardless of role or team.
First, do they align with our values?
What it feels like…
Most days it feels more like going to work with a big family. Whether it’s a potluck lunch, baking birthday cakes for colleagues in the kitchen, or after-hours get-together, we’re here to do a great job and have a good time while doing it! We value a good sense of humor, are motivated by a higher purpose, and always bring an “in-this-together” attitude. While we’re driven to do great work, we also value real work/life balance.
Is This the Career for You?
The Chief Risk Officer (CRO) is a key member of the executive leadership team responsible for the overall management of risk across the credit union. This includes enterprise risk management, compliance, internal audit, vendor management, corporate insurance, business continuity planning, records retention, and fraud prevention. The CRO will ensure that the credit union operates within its risk appetite, adheres to regulatory requirements, and protects its members' assets while supporting sustainable growth and innovation.
What You’ll Be Doing
EDUCATION: A bachelor's degree in business administration, accounting or finance is required. A Master of Business Administration and Certified Internal Auditor is preferred.
EXPERIENCE: Minimum of 15 years of progressively responsible management experience in a financial institution setting. A strong background in risk management, including direct experience in developing, assessing, and performing enterprise risk assessments is required. Must also be familiar with risk management concepts and practices such as the COSO framework.
SKILLS & COMPENTENCIES:
Salary
This compensation range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs. At SFFCU, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their role and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current range for the San Francisco Market is an annual salary of $200,000 to $285,000.
In 1951 SF Fire Credit Union first opened its doors from a modest 10′ × 15′ office space in 17 Engine. It was from those humble beginnings—where everyone pitched in to help one another in their community—that the organization forged its way of business forever. Today, the San Francisco-based credit union has grown to $1.7B in assets and a membership that extends from the regional firefighters we trace our roots back to throughout our many neighbors in San Francisco, San Mateo, and Marin Counties. Our members benefit from the ideas and principles that have shaped us: Shared trust, continuous innovation of products and services, competitive rates, and excellent member service. These qualities foster a true sense of member-ownership and strengthen the credit union’s bond with the people for whom this credit union was created.
What we stand for…
There are a few things we look for those we hire at SF Fire Credit Union, regardless of role or team.
First, do they align with our values?
- We win together.
- We are of service to members above all else.
- We are authentic, transparent, and honest.
- We challenge the conventional with creativity.
- We embrace diverse voices.
What it feels like…
Most days it feels more like going to work with a big family. Whether it’s a potluck lunch, baking birthday cakes for colleagues in the kitchen, or after-hours get-together, we’re here to do a great job and have a good time while doing it! We value a good sense of humor, are motivated by a higher purpose, and always bring an “in-this-together” attitude. While we’re driven to do great work, we also value real work/life balance.
Is This the Career for You?
The Chief Risk Officer (CRO) is a key member of the executive leadership team responsible for the overall management of risk across the credit union. This includes enterprise risk management, compliance, internal audit, vendor management, corporate insurance, business continuity planning, records retention, and fraud prevention. The CRO will ensure that the credit union operates within its risk appetite, adheres to regulatory requirements, and protects its members' assets while supporting sustainable growth and innovation.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Risk Management
- Develop and implement a robust enterprise risk management (ERM) framework that identifies, assesses, mitigates, and monitors risks across the credit union.
- Advise the CEO and board of directors on risk exposures and mitigation strategies, providing clear and actionable insights.
- Collaborate with department leaders to integrate risk management practices into day-to-day operations and strategic planning.
- Internal Audit
- Oversee the internal audit function, ensuring it operates independently and effectively to assess the adequacy and effectiveness of the credit union’s internal controls.
- Develop and execute a risk-based internal audit plan that addresses key operational, financial, and compliance risks.
- Report audit findings and recommendations to the CEO and board, ensuring timely resolution of identified issues.
- Vendor Management
- Manage the vendor management program, ensuring that third-party relationships are assessed for risk and aligned with the credit union’s strategic goals.
- Records Retention
- Oversee the records retention program, ensuring that all records are maintained, stored, and disposed of in compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
- Develop and implement policies and procedures for records management, ensuring the security and confidentiality of sensitive information.
- Conduct regular reviews of the records retention program to ensure ongoing compliance and operational efficiency.
- Business Continuity Planning
- Lead the development and maintenance of the business continuity plan (BCP) to ensure the credit union’s ability to operate during and after a crisis or disruption.
- Coordinate and lead regular testing and training exercises to ensure preparedness and continuous improvement of the BCP.
- Corporate Insurance
- Oversee the corporate insurance program, ensuring adequate coverage for all operational, financial, and liability risks.
- Evaluate and select insurance providers, negotiate policy terms, and manage claims processes.
- Regularly review and update insurance coverage to reflect changes in the credit union’s risk profile and operations.
- Compliance and Regulatory Affairs
- Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including those specific to credit unions.
- Stay informed about changes in the regulatory environment and assess their impact on the credit union’s operations.
- Collaborate with the compliance team to develop and implement policies and procedures that meet regulatory requirements.
- Team Leadership and Development
- Lead, mentor, and develop the risk management, internal audit, and vendor management teams, fostering a culture of integrity, accountability, and continuous improvement.
- Set clear goals and performance expectations for direct reports, providing guidance and support to achieve them.
- Ensure effective succession planning within the risk management and related functions.
- Board and Executive Collaboration
- Serve as a key advisor to the CEO and board of directors on all risk-related matters, providing regular updates on risk exposures, mitigation strategies, and internal audit findings.
- Collaborate with other senior executives to align risk management practices with the credit union’s overall business objectives.
- Present reports and recommendations to the board’s audit and risk committees, ensuring transparency and accountability.
- Strategic Initiatives
- Participate in strategic planning and decision-making processes, ensuring that risk considerations are integrated into the credit union’s long-term plans.
- Lead or contribute to special projects and initiatives that involve risk management, internal audit, or compliance considerations.
- Support innovation and transformation initiatives by assessing risks and providing solutions that align with the credit union’s strategic goals.
- Other duties as assigned.
EDUCATION: A bachelor's degree in business administration, accounting or finance is required. A Master of Business Administration and Certified Internal Auditor is preferred.
EXPERIENCE: Minimum of 15 years of progressively responsible management experience in a financial institution setting. A strong background in risk management, including direct experience in developing, assessing, and performing enterprise risk assessments is required. Must also be familiar with risk management concepts and practices such as the COSO framework.
SKILLS & COMPENTENCIES:
- Extensive experience in a senior risk management role, preferably within a credit union, financial institution, or similarly regulated industry.
- Proven track record of developing and implementing risk management and internal audit strategies.
- Strong understanding of regulatory compliance, vendor management, business continuity planning, and corporate insurance.
- Excellent leadership skills with experience managing and developing high-performing teams.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with both internal and external stakeholders.
- Analytical mindset with the ability to leverage data and insights to inform risk management decisions.
- Commitment to the credit union’s mission, values, and member-first approach.
- Adaptability and the ability to thrive in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
Salary
This compensation range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs. At SFFCU, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their role and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current range for the San Francisco Market is an annual salary of $200,000 to $285,000.
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