Head of Risk & Compliance

Karandaaz Pakistan, a not-for-profit organization based in Islamabad and registered under Section 42 of the Companies Act 2017, is committed to enhancing the financial and digital ecosystem through investments, innovations, and strategic partnerships for inclusive, green, and sustainable growth. Supported by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and the Gates Foundation, Karandaaz operates with a vision of “Investing for Shared Prosperity.” The organization is seeking a seasoned risk management professional to lead a team responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive risk management strategies. This role encompasses credit, market, operational, and compliance risks, aiming to safeguard organizational assets, ensure sound credit underwriting, and proactively identify and mitigate financial and reputational risks in line with internal policies, regulatory requirements, and donor guidelines.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead due diligence on credit and investment proposals, preparing risk assessments and presenting findings to the Investment Committee. Participate as a member of the Treasury Committee and Innovation Investments panel.
- Review contracts and legal documentation to ensure compliance with statutory and regulatory standards, identifying gaps and recommending mitigation plans.
- Monitor portfolio and product performance monthly, ensuring controls are effective and credit books are well-managed, including concentrations, credit ratings, watchlists, and non-performing loans.
- Analyze the organization’s overall risk exposure, including liquidity management, and ensure alignment with current market conditions and economic indicators. Report insights to the Board and relevant committees.
- Oversee the maintenance of the risk register, preparation of risk dashboards, and key risk reports for the Board Audit & Risk Committee. Manage annual stress testing and related reporting.
- Develop and implement the Risk Management Framework, risk mitigation tools, and control mechanisms aligned with business objectives and long-term plans.
- Supervise strategic investment performance, ensuring adherence to investment plans and conducting risk-profitability analyses for potential investments.
- Lead the development of risk analytics and assessment tools, enhancing methodologies for market, credit, liquidity, and operational risks. Ensure compliance with IFRS 9 standards.
- Stay updated on market dynamics and best practices, continuously reviewing and improving risk assessment procedures and compliance policies.
- Ensure the organization’s risk appetite and tolerance limits are clearly defined, documented, and periodically reviewed.
- Oversee AML/CFT compliance across the organization and its subsidiaries, ensuring seamless policy implementation.

Required Qualifications

- Master’s degree or equivalent in Finance, Economics, or Business Administration.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in risk management within the financial services sector, with a strong preference for candidates experienced in Private Equity or Investment Banking.
- Proven track record in developing and implementing institutional risk and compliance policies.
- Deep knowledge of AML, CTF, and KYC frameworks, including local (SBP, SECP) and international regulations (e.g., FATF).
- Expertise in Enterprise Risk Management covering operational, credit, market, reputational, and strategic risks.
- Proficiency in financial and credit risk modeling techniques and risk analytics.
- Strong leadership skills with experience managing and mentoring high-performing teams.
- Excellent strategic thinking, stakeholder management, and negotiation abilities.
- Superior communication skills, including experience preparing Board presentations and regulatory reports.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with the ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure.
- Familiarity with ESG risks in the context of sustainable finance or donor-funded programs.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits

- Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Financial Risk Manager (FRM) certification is highly desirable.
- Opportunity to work within a values-driven culture emphasizing Integrity, Diversity, Entrepreneurship, Appreciation, and Learning Acumen (IDEAL).
- Karandaaz Pakistan is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and encourages applications from all population groups.

Applications for this position close at midnight on Sunday, 11th October 2026.