Risk & Regulatory Compliance Manager – EIB

Equity Bank Limited is a leading financial institution in Kenya, established in 1984. It operates within the banking and financial services sector, offering a comprehensive range of services.

The Risk & Regulatory Compliance Manager at Equity Bank Kenya (EIB) is responsible for establishing and overseeing a comprehensive risk and regulatory compliance framework tailored for the investment banking sector. This includes ensuring that EIB's capital markets, corporate finance, advisory, trading, and asset management operations adhere to both local and international regulations. The role also involves proactively identifying, evaluating, mitigating, and reporting on diverse risks such as financial, operational, market, credit, liquidity, and reputational risks. The manager will serve as a key strategic partner to business units, offering expert guidance on regulatory interpretations, new product approvals, transaction structuring, and aligning with the bank's risk appetite to foster sustainable growth in the competitive investment banking landscape.

1. Develop and maintain enterprise-wide risk frameworks, including Risk and Control Self Assessments (RCSA), Risk Registers, Key Risk Indicators (KRIs), and scenario analysis specific to investment banking, covering market volatility, counterparty credit, and operational resilience in trading systems.
2. Conduct thorough risk assessments for high-impact activities such as underwriting, proprietary trading, and structured products.
3. Monitor risk appetite and limits, escalating breaches and proposing remediation plans.
4. Collaborate with first-line business teams to identify risks within deal pipelines and trading books.
5. Support stress testing, capital adequacy (ICAAP), and recovery planning in line with Basel requirements.
6. Oversee the bank’s compliance program across all investment banking activities, including deal origination, equity/debt capital markets, and trading (equities, fixed income).
7. Monitor and interpret evolving regulatory requirements (e.g., prudential standards, market abuse, insider trading, conflicts of interest, client suitability, best execution) and ensure their timely implementation.
8. Lead regulatory reporting, manage interactions with regulators (CMA, FRC, UFAA, IRS, KRA, etc.), and oversee inspections/audits.
9. Advise on new products, services, and transactions regarding regulatory risks and secure necessary approvals.
10. Embed a strong compliance culture through comprehensive training, policies, and awareness programs.
11. Support group-wide compliance initiatives, including policy updates, compliance training, and culture enhancement.
12. Participate in Risk & Compliance Committees, preparing reports for the Board, Executive Risk Committee, and senior management.
13. Implement and test controls for key risks, such as Chinese walls, surveillance for market manipulation, and AML in cross-border deals.
14. Lead or support internal audits, external reviews, and gap analyses.
15. Drive continuous improvement through technology, including regtech, surveillance tools, and automated reporting.
16. Maintain and protect EIB trademarks and other intellectual property assets.
17. Monitor IP infringements and support renewal processes.
18. Support the implementation of Data Protection policies and assist in breach management processes.
19. Provide proactive, practical advice to Front Office, Legal, Finance, and Operations on compliance and risk matters.
20. Build strong relationships with regulators, industry bodies, and peers.
21. Support business growth by balancing risk mitigation with commercial objectives.

1. Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Business, Law, or a related field.
2. Professional certifications such as CPA, CFA, FRM, or CAMS are considered an advantage.
3. Minimum of 7–10 years of experience in risk management and compliance within banking or financial services.
4. Strong knowledge of Kenyan banking regulations, investment products, and capital markets.
5. Proven track record in managing regulatory audits and risk assessments.
6. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
7. Strong leadership and team management abilities.
8. High ethical standards and integrity.
9. Effective communication and stakeholder management skills.
10. Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
11. Demonstrated accountability and ability to manage complexity.
12. Proficiency in planning and execution.
13. Strong communication and stakeholder influence.
14. Customer-focused approach.
15. Ability to foster collaboration and effective decision-making.