Head Business Risk Management

Job Description

As the Head of Business Risk Management, you will lead the front-line efforts in protecting Swissquote from client-related risks. Reporting directly to the Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, you will act as a key partner to Sales teams and senior management, ensuring robust due diligence, AML controls, and client risk assessments across the entire client lifecycle — from prospecting to ongoing monitoring. This role places you at the heart of the organization’s first line of defense, working in close alignment with the Compliance Department and Relationship Managers to support sustainable growth and regulatory integrity. The position requires coverage across both our Gland and Zurich offices. As the scope of the client base evolves, you will also be responsible for gradually building and leading a dedicated, multi-site team to ensure that the Business Risk Management function scales effectively with business growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Client Risk Management:
  • Lead and supervise all client onboarding reviews across all segments — HNWI individuals, corporates, institutional clients, financial institutions, and external asset managers — with a strong focus on AML/CTF compliance.
  • Ensure consistent application of internal standards, regulatory obligations (including AMLA, AMLO-FINMA, and CDB), and best practices throughout the client journey.
  • Conduct risk-based reviews and escalate issues requiring second-line validation or senior-level decisions.
  • Advise business stakeholders on reputational, money laundering, and commercial risk exposure, and define mitigation strategies.
  • Ensure compliance with international obligations, including FATCA and CRS (automatic exchange of information).

• Leadership and Management:
  • Manage and develop a team of business risk managers.
  • Promote a culture of transparency, ownership, and collaboration across the Business Risk Management team.
  • Provide direction and mentoring to ensure continuous development, operational rigor, and high team engagement.

• Advisory:
  • Act as a senior advisor and trusted partner to the Front Office on client eligibility, risk management, and regulatory matters.
  • Support the commercial organization with responsive, business-oriented guidance that balances growth with prudence.

• Risk Governance & Process Optimization:
  • Contribute to the evolution of internal frameworks for client due diligence and periodic reviews.
  • Promote the automation and optimization of key processes in collaboration with IT and other departments.
  • Ensure documentation and reporting meet regulatory expectations and internal audit standards.

• Cross-functional Collaboration:
  • Work in close partnership with the Compliance Department and the Legal Department to ensure full alignment across the lines of defense.
  • Participate in working groups to shape internal policies and client risk strategies.

• Reporting and Analytics:
  • Oversee the production of risk dashboards and management reports related to client activity, high-risk files, and exposure monitoring.

• Minimum 10 years of experience in Business Risk Management, Compliance or Regulatory Affairs within the financial industry.
• University degree in Law or equivalent qualification.
• Deep knowledge of Swiss AML laws and regulations (AMLA, AMLO-FINMA, CDB) and global standards such as FATCA and CRS.
• Detail-oriented, analytical, and methodical approach.
• Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills.
• Excellent communication in both English and French, with the ability to advise at all levels of the organization. Knowledge of German is an asset.

SQ2