Senior Risk Associate (UAE National)

The Emirates Investment Authority (EIA) stands as the sole federal sovereign wealth fund of the UAE, tasked with managing a diversified asset portfolio to ensure the nation's long-term financial stability. The Senior Risk Associate will be instrumental in supporting the risk management framework of the EIA, aiding in the monitoring of investment and operational risks, while ensuring compliance with the EIA's Enterprise Risk Management Framework (ERMF). This position entails close collaboration with the Chief Risk Officer to facilitate risk assessment and reporting throughout the organization.

Risk Analysis & Monitoring

Assist in the development of risk models, including stress testing and scenario analysis. Continuously monitor and evaluate the risk-return profile of the portfolio, concentrating on managing key risk metrics across various asset classes, such as equities, fixed income, private equity, and real estate.

Risk Reporting

Support the preparation and timely presentation of comprehensive risk reports for senior management and pertinent committees, ensuring precision, timeliness, and alignment with the strategic objectives of the EIA. Collaborate with other departments to enhance the reporting framework under the ERMF.

Enterprise Risk Management Framework (ERMF)

Engage in the implementation and ongoing enhancement of the ERMF. This encompasses conducting operational risk reviews, investment due diligence, and reporting on significant risk exposures, while increasingly focusing on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors.

Sustainability and ESG Risks

As the EIA broadens its commitment to sustainability, collaborate with the Director of Sustainability & Quantitative Risk to develop sustainability risk metrics and integrate them within the overall risk reporting framework.

Data Management & Automation

Assist in the automation of risk reporting and data collection processes, utilizing tools such as Excel (VBA), Barra One, and Bloomberg. Ensure the accuracy of risk data and contribute to the enhancement of risk management systems.

Investment and Operational Due Diligence

Provide support in conducting due diligence on potential investment opportunities and operational risks, ensuring adherence to the EIA's risk management policies and assisting in the formulation of thorough risk assessments.

Collaboration Across Departments

Work collaboratively with the Finance, Operations, IT, and Investment teams to ensure that risk data is effectively integrated into decision-making processes and that the organization's risk appetite is congruent with its strategic objectives.

Requirements

Education

• A Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Mathematics, Statistics, or a related quantitative discipline is required.
• Professional certifications such as FRM, PRM, or CFA are highly preferred, coupled with a dedication to achieving certification within 2-3 years of employment.

Experience

• A minimum of 3-5 years of relevant experience in risk management, investment analysis, or a quantitative capacity within a financial or investment institution is required.
• Proven experience in risk modeling, portfolio analysis, and operational risk management is essential.
• Familiarity with risk systems such as Barra One, Bloomberg, or comparable tools is highly advantageous.

Technical Skills

• Expertise in MS Excel (including VBA) for data analysis and process automation.
• Robust analytical capabilities in stress testing and scenario analysis, with knowledge of risk reporting tools such as PowerBI being beneficial.
• Experience in handling large datasets and conducting quantitative analysis to derive actionable insights is expected.

Key Competencies

Risk Assessment & Analysis: Exceptional analytical skills for assessing and monitoring risks across a variety of asset classes and investment portfolios.

Reporting & Communication: Proficient in conveying complex risk data to senior management and stakeholders, effectively translating risk metrics into actionable insights.

Collaboration: Proven ability to collaborate across departments, especially with investment, finance, and operations teams to synchronize risk performance and reporting requirements.

Attention to Detail: Diligent in the preparation and validation of risk reports, ensuring accuracy and adherence to internal policies.

Adaptability: Demonstrated capability to thrive in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, particularly as the Enterprise Risk Management Function evolves to encompass sustainability-related risks.