Head of Risk Management & Internal Controls (f/m/x)

As the Head of Risk Management & Internal Controls at AUTO1 Group, your primary responsibilities include providing strategic leadership for the risk management function, enhancing the internal controls system, and integrating risk considerations into decision-making processes. You'll also be tasked with identifying and monitoring financial risks, overseeing the operational risk team, and establishing effective risk reporting processes to ensure transparency and accountability at the executive level.

To qualify for the Head of Risk Management & Internal Controls position at AUTO1 Group, candidates should possess over six years of relevant experience in risk, underwriting, or compliance. Ideal candidates will have a solid understanding of financial and operational risks, regulatory requirements, and risk management best practices. A background in finance, risk management, or a related field along with strong leadership and communication skills is essential for success in this role.

AUTO1 Group fosters a positive risk culture by promoting awareness and accountability among its employees regarding risk management principles. As the Head of Risk Management & Internal Controls, you will play a crucial role in mentoring your team and collaborating with various business units to ensure that risk considerations are embedded in daily activities and decision-making processes throughout the organization.

Employees in the Head of Risk Management role at AUTO1 Group can expect an attractive compensation package that includes equity, a permanent contract, and flexible working-from-home options. In addition, the company offers an above-average corporate pension plan, car purchase discounts, and the opportunity to work in a diverse and international environment, making it a rewarding place to grow your career.

While fluency in English is a requirement for the Head of Risk Management & Internal Controls role at AUTO1 Group, having German language skills is considered an advantage. This bilingual proficiency can enhance communication with local teams and stakeholders, contributing to a more effective risk management approach within the organization.

To effectively identify and mitigate risks at AUTO1 Group, I would implement a comprehensive risk assessment framework that analyzes potential financial, operational, and compliance risks. Collaborating with various departments and leveraging data analytics will be essential to pinpointing vulnerabilities and developing proactive mitigation strategies that align with the company's objectives.

In developing risk management frameworks, I have employed a structured approach that includes assessing organizational needs, identifying specific risks, and integrating best practices. My hands-on experience includes creating policies and procedures that established clear guidelines for risk identification, reporting, and monitoring, ensuring alignment with regulatory requirements and business goals.

To ensure effective cooperation between risk management and other business units, I prioritize establishing strong communication channels and fostering collaborative relationships. By facilitating workshops and meetings, I encourage teams to share insights and integrate risk considerations into their daily operations, ultimately creating a cohesive culture that values risk awareness.

My approach to cultivating a strong risk culture involves promoting awareness through education and training, encouraging open discussions about risk, and celebrating accountability when team members take ownership of risk management practices. By demonstrating that risk management is a shared responsibility, I can help embed proactive risk behaviors into the organization's DNA.

To stay updated on the latest trends and regulations in risk management, I actively engage with industry associations, attend relevant conferences, and participate in online courses. Additionally, I follow reputable publications and blogs that focus on risk management, ensuring that I am informed of emerging issues and best practices applicable to the financial sector.

In a previous role, I encountered a significant risk scenario involving a sudden market downturn impacting our lending portfolio. I handled it by conducting a thorough analysis of the potential impact, developing a set of strategic responses, and collaborating with my team to implement new controls. This proactive approach minimized losses and reinforced investor confidence in our risk management abilities.

I believe that important metrics for measuring risk performance include the frequency and severity of breaches, compliance rates with internal controls, and the effectiveness of risk mitigation strategies. Additionally, tracking key risk indicators (KRIs) can provide valuable insights into potential risks, enabling preemptive actions before they escalate.

My approach to regulatory compliance in risk management involves maintaining a deep understanding of existing regulations, implementing rigorous compliance frameworks, and conducting regular audits. I ensure that we not only meet regulatory obligations but also adopt best practices that enhance our overall risk management strategies.

To handle conflicts within the risk management team, I would focus on open communication and facilitated discussions to understand the root causes of the conflict. Encouraging a culture where team members feel safe expressing their concerns and viewpoints allows us to resolve issues collaboratively, ultimately strengthening team dynamics.

Technology plays a crucial role in risk management today by automating processes, enhancing data analysis, and improving communication. Leveraging advanced analytics and risk management tools allows organizations like AUTO1 Group to identify potential risks more accurately and respond swiftly, ensuring resilience in an ever-changing market landscape.