Risk Operations Program Manager

The Risk Operations Program Manager at Parafin oversees the safety and security of our operations by implementing key controls and processes to prevent fraudulent activities. This includes enhancing the fraud prevention program, optimizing KYC systems, and preparing our operations team for new product launches. Success in this role requires collaboration with various teams, including product, data science, and engineering to ensure the scalability and security of all offerings.

To be a successful Risk Operations Program Manager at Parafin, candidates should have at least 6 years of relevant experience, preferably in operations or risk/fraud roles within fintech or payments startups. A solid understanding of payment ecosystems, KYC systems, and ACH money movement is crucial. Additionally, superb communication and problem-solving skills are essential for thriving in this fast-paced environment.

The Risk Operations Program Manager plays a vital role in balancing fraud prevention with excellent customer experience. By creating best-in-class user experiences affected by risk decisions and collaborating closely with various departments, the manager ensures that any necessary security measures do not hinder customer satisfaction. This focus on both security and service is critical for maintaining Parafin's reputation.

Parafin stands out as a progressive company committed to enabling small businesses through technology. The collaborative work environment is enriched by a diverse team of innovators from renowned tech companies, fostering an atmosphere where creative problem-solving is encouraged. This combination of mission-driven work and a supportive culture makes it an exciting place to advance your career as a Risk Operations Program Manager.

Parafin provides an attractive compensation package for its Risk Operations Program Manager, including a salary range of $190k - $220k, equity grants, and comprehensive health benefits such as medical, dental, and vision insurance. The company also promotes work-life balance with unlimited PTO, remote work flexibility, and additional perks like free lunches, commuter benefits, and a robust 401(k) plan.

When approaching risk management in a fast-paced environment, I prioritize establishing clear protocols based on data-driven insights. This includes rapidly identifying potential risk indicators and implementing effective control measures while keeping communication channels open among teams to facilitate swift adjustments as needed.

My experience with KYC systems involves optimizing processes to ensure compliance and enhancing user experience. I have implemented automated solutions to streamline data collection while maintaining thorough verification processes, which is essential for balancing security and customer satisfaction.

Balancing fraud prevention with customer experience requires a strategic mindset. I focus on developing protocols that minimize friction for users while ensuring that robust risk measures are in place. This involves constant monitoring of customer feedback and adapting procedures accordingly to enhance service without compromising security.

Key metrics I would track include the rate of fraudulent transactions prevented, the time taken to resolve fraud-related issues, customer satisfaction scores, and operational efficiency indicators such as processing times. These metrics provide a comprehensive picture of performance and areas needing improvement.

Collaboration with engineering and product teams would involve regular cross-functional meetings to align on goals and share insights regarding fraud patterns. By providing the teams with data and feedback from our risk assessments, I would ensure they are well-equipped to implement features that enhance security without hindering the user experience.

In a previous role, a fraud prevention initiative did not yield the expected results. Instead of viewing it as a failure, I took it as an opportunity to analyze the gaps. By conducting a thorough post-implementation review, I gathered valuable insights that informed the development of more successful strategies in future projects.

My understanding of the card payment ecosystem includes familiarization with transaction processing, the roles of various stakeholders like acquirers and issuers, and compliance requirements. I stay updated on industry trends to ensure that I can effectively manage risks associated with each aspect of this ecosystem.

To manage ambiguity, I employ a systematic approach. I focus on gathering as much data as possible to inform my decision-making and ensure that I have a clear framework for evaluating all initiatives. This enables me to make informed prioritization decisions that align with both risk management and business growth.

I prioritize open and clear communication by initiating regular touchpoints and utilizing collaboration tools that keep everyone informed. Additionally, I encourage feedback and transparency in discussions to foster a team-oriented environment where all input is valued, leading to more comprehensive risk management strategies.

Staying updated on the latest trends in risk management and fraud prevention involves regularly reading industry reports, attending webinars, and following thought leaders on social media. Networking with professionals at conferences also provides valuable insights and practical knowledge that I can apply in my role.