ob Title: Fractional Chief Risk Officer (CRO)
Location: City of London (Hybrid)
Commitment: 2 days per week
Day Rate: £700 per day
Sector: Independent Financial Adviser (IFA)
Overview
An established, City-based Independent Financial Adviser (IFA) firm is seeking an experienced Fractional Chief Risk Officer (CRO) to provide senior-level oversight of risk management, regulatory compliance, and governance.
This is a high-impact, board-facing role for a proven risk leader with prior responsibility as SMF16/17 (Compliance Oversight / MLRO) or equivalent, and demonstrable experience managing ALMRO and Compliance Officer functions within an FCA-regulated environment.
The role will suit a senior professional who enjoys working with owner-managed or growth-focused advisory firms, bringing structure, insight, and strong regulatory judgement.
Key Responsibilities
Risk & Governance
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Design, implement, and maintain the firm’s enterprise risk management framework.
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Own and update the risk register, conduct risk assessments, and scenario testing.
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Advise the Board on current and emerging regulatory and operational risks.
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Support the Board in meeting governance, oversight, and conduct obligations.
Regulatory & Compliance Oversight
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Provide senior oversight of Compliance and ALMRO activities.
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Ensure ongoing compliance with Financial Conduct Authority rules, principles, and guidance.
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Oversee policies and procedures covering AML, financial crime, client money, complaints, and data protection.
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Act as a key point of contact for regulators, auditors, and external consultants.
Financial Crime & AML
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Oversee AML framework, risk assessments, and suspicious activity processes.
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Ensure effective monitoring of client onboarding, KYC, and ongoing due diligence.
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Provide challenge and sign-off on high-risk client cases.
Board & Senior Management Support
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Produce clear board papers, MI, and risk dashboards.
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Provide practical, commercial guidance to directors and senior management.
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Support SMF holders with regulatory responsibilities and documentation.
Continuous Improvement
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Identify gaps in controls and implement proportionate improvements.
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Keep the firm ahead of regulatory change through horizon scanning and impact analysis.
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Mentor junior compliance or risk staff where appropriate.
Essential
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Proven experience as Chief Risk Officer, Head of Risk, or senior Compliance/AML leader within an IFA or wealth management firm.
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Prior responsibility managing or overseeing ALMRO and Compliance Officer functions.
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Strong board-level experience, including presenting to and advising boards.
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Deep knowledge of FCA regulatory framework and conduct requirements.
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Ability to balance regulatory rigour with commercial pragmatism.
Desirable
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Former or current SMF16/17 status.
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Experience supporting firms through FCA visits, thematic reviews, or remediation.
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Professional qualifications in compliance, risk, or financial services.
Contract & Package
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Fractional engagement: 2 days per week
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Day rate: £700
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Initial 6-month contract, with potential extension
Exec Capital are a leading CRO recruiter based in London