Head of Risk

Head of Risk Jobs in Lusaka at ASA Microfinance Zambia

ASA Microfinance Zambia is seeking a highly experienced and strategic professional to join our team as the Head of Risk. This pivotal role is based in Lusaka, Zambia, and offers an exciting opportunity for candidates passionate about risk management within the microfinance sector. The Head of Risk will lead the enhancement and implementation of our risk framework, ensuring compliance with policies, ethical standards, and fostering a strong risk-aware culture across the organization.

Position Overview and Key Responsibilities

The Head of Risk will provide thought leadership in all risk-related matters, embedding risk management practices at every level. This full-time role involves overseeing risk governance, identification, mitigation, monitoring, and escalation to safeguard ASA Microfinance Zambia’s operational integrity and strategic objectives.

• Risk Governance: Ensure that the institution’s risk management policy and risk appetite align with its business strategies, capital strength, and management capabilities.
• Risk Identification and Measurement: Manage risk domains including capital, liquidity, market, credit, legal and regulatory, operational, people, reputational, strategic, and mission risks.
• Risk Mitigation: Collaborate with department heads to implement effective controls that reduce risk exposure, supporting internal audit and fraud prevention efforts.
• Risk Monitoring: Stay informed on internal and external factors affecting the institution’s ability to operate successfully.
• Risk Escalation: Address breaches or risk indicator deviations promptly with relevant stakeholders before escalating to senior management and the Board.
• Risk Assessments: Conduct periodic audits and analyze key metrics to detect policy violations and ensure compliance with regulations and ethical standards.
• Policy Development: Establish and continuously improve risk management policies and procedures across all departments.
• Reporting and Communication: Prepare comprehensive risk reports and present actionable insights to Management and the Board.
• Risk Management Solutions: Recommend and implement solutions such as insurance, business continuity plans, and recovery measures approved by the Board.
• Training and Leadership: Design and deliver risk management training programs and supervise Risk Officers to promote a risk-aware culture.
• Additional Duties: Perform other relevant duties aligned with the role as assigned by the supervisor.

Qualifications and Experience for Head of Risk Jobs in Lusaka

Ideal candidates will possess a strong educational background and extensive experience in risk management, particularly within microfinance, banking, or financial services industries.

• Bachelor’s degree in a business-related field from a reputable university.
• Master’s degree in a business-related field is an added advantage.
• At least 10 years of experience in risk management or audit with a track record of evaluating business operations.
• In-depth knowledge of risk management policies, best practices, and relevant legal and regulatory frameworks, including the Microfinance sector and Company’s Act.
• Proficiency in preparing and submitting regulatory, statutory, and risk reports.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, problem-solving, and time management skills.
• Strong leadership and supervisory capabilities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or related software for report and policy preparation.

Core Competencies

• Strategic Thinker: Anticipates future risk trends and acts proactively.
• Calm Under Pressure: Maintains composure and leads confidently during crises.
• Collaborative Leader: Influences cross-functional teams effectively without direct control.
• Strong Communicator: Translates complex risk concepts into clear, actionable insights for the Board.
• Ethical Compass: Upholds integrity, transparency, and objectivity, even in ambiguous situations.
• Change Agent: Promotes a risk-aware culture and mentors others to elevate risk thinking.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a single document containing a detailed application letter and Curriculum Vitae addressed to the Human Resource & Administration Manager. Please send your application to jobs@asazambia.co.zm.

Note: Do not include academic and professional credentials at this stage.

Application Deadline: 8th May 2026