Operational Risk Specialist 80-100%

Zurich Insurance is the leader in commercial (non-life) insurance for local and international business, having been active in the Netherlands and Belgium since 1885.

We pride ourselves on nurturing sustainable customer relationships and crafting innovative products to keep pace with our clients' evolving needs - Insurance and Risk management in a way that works! 

As we continue to experience growth, Zurich Benelux is seeking a talented and experienced Operational Risk Specialist with a strong affinity for IT to join our dynamic team. In this pivotal role, you will work closely with the Chief Risk Officer (CRO) to ensure effective management of operational risks and internal controls across our processes, systems, and activities. Your expertise in risk management methodologies, IT systems, and internal control frameworks will be crucial.

You will be expected to model behaviors that demonstrate a commitment to our corporate values and maintain flexibility. Supporting senior managers in the business and interacting with assurance functions (2nd and 3rd lines of defense) will be your key responsibilities. Additionally, you will contribute to the continuous improvement and efficiency of our internal control system by conducting ongoing reviews and initiating changes to ensure risk responses adequately reflect changes in the environment.

Whether you prefer The Hague (Netherlands) or Zaventem (Belgium), this 80-100% hybrid position offers you the choice of either location.

Seize this exciting opportunity to shape the future of risk management with Zurich Insurance!

Key Responsibilities:

• Risk Management: Facilitate operational risk assessments and analyses to identify risks and problems early and ensure that measures are defined and monitored. It includes reviews to evaluate the effectiveness of our operational risk management practices
• Internal Control Management: Monitor the adequacy of internal control systems, ensuring all operational risks are assessed, monitored, and documented and internal controls are implemented, documented and maintained. Conduct reviews of internal control systems and initiate changes to ensure risks are adequately addressed.
• Collaboration: Work closely with other departments to ensure operational risks and controls are fully integrated into the organization's processes. Support 1st Line of defense assurance activities, especially on internal controls, validating findings and observations with relevant stakeholders and reviewing results.
• Group Risk Management: Adopt Group Risk Management tools, templates, and methodologies on internal controls. Support the 2nd line review and challenge activities related to risk identification and assessment on internal controls.
• Compliance: Ensure the compliance and proper functioning of the internal control system. Develop and implement internal control policies and procedures, and monitor and assess the effectiveness of internal controls.
• Reporting: Report on a quarterly basis or ad-hoc on operational risks, including IT risks. Advise senior management on requests related to risk management and internal controls.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Finance, Business, IT, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in operational risk management, with a strong focus on IT systems and internal controls.
• Consulting experience will be highly beneficial
• In-depth knowledge of risk management methodologies, internal control frameworks, cybersecurity frameworks and relevant regulatory requirements (DORA, GDPR, PSD II, Solvency II).
• Professional certifications such as Certified Risk Manager (CRM), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), CISSP or similar are preferred.
• Ability to analyse complex information security issues, develop actionable plans and drive results.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively across teams and departments.

What we offer: 

• The chance to make a significant impact on the risk success of Zurich Benelux. 
• Competitive salary and benefits package that aligns with your experience and the responsibilities of your future role.
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth. 
• An international, intrapreneurial, and informal working environment.  
• A dynamic and inclusive work environment. 

Who we are   

Looking for a challenging and inspiring work environment where you can make a difference? Zurich Commercial Insurance Benelux is part of the Zurich Group and is one of the most specialized insurance companies within non-life insurance for local and international business in the Benelux market. Millions of individuals and businesses place their trust in Zurich products and services every day.   

Are you ready to start a new adventure at the forefront of the commercial insurance industry?   

Our 61’000 employees worldwide form the basis of our success, enabling businesses and communities to face a world of risk with confidence. If you are looking to be supported by a world-class team who believe in helping you to reach your full potential and deliver on our promises, join Team Zurich! 

People are Zurich’s most important asset. Their varied skills, perspectives and experiences drive innovation. And they reflect the breadth and diversity of our customers, suppliers, communities and investors around the world. We are committed to attracting and retaining talented individuals from a variety of backgrounds and experiences.

Zurich does not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, sex, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, age, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, pregnancy or other characteristics protected by applicable law. 

Be challenged. Be inspired. Help us make a difference.  

Only direct applications are processed. No acquisition via third party companies. 

Must currently reside within Netherlands or Belgium.