Associate Manager, Operational Risk

As part of our continued efforts to enhance risk management practices, we are seeking a highly motivated, intellectually curious, and results-oriented Associate Manager, Operational Risk to join our Operational Risk Management team. This role is ideal for an energetic professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment, demonstrates strong critical thinking skills, and brings a high level of ownership, intensity, and organizational discipline to complex risk and project management initiatives. 

 As a member of the Operational Risk team, you’ll be part of a collaborative and purpose-driven group that values integrity, innovation, and impact. This role blends core risk management responsibilities with hands-on project leadership, offering a unique opportunity to shape and strengthen our operational resilience. 

Responsibilities 

• Conduct and facilitate operational risk activities, including risk assessments, control documentation and testing, event analysis, and remediation tracking. 

• Lead and coordinate cross-functional projects, ensuring timely delivery of risk initiatives through effective planning, execution, and stakeholder engagement. 

• Develop and maintain project plans, including scope definition, milestone tracking, and status reporting. 

• Produce timely and accurate operational risk reports for internal and external stakeholders on both scheduled and ad hoc bases. 

• Facilitate the SOC1 audit engagement and oversight as well as the quarterly bridge letter process. 

• Support the Russell Investments corporate insurance program. 

• Monitor changes to RI's business and risk profile and recommend changes to RI's global insurance program as appropriate.  

• Develop and implement risk management program policies and procedures. 

Demonstrable skills and required experience: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Finance, Accounting, or a related discipline. 

• 5-8 years of experience with exposure to operational risk and/or internal/external audit.  

• Financial services or asset management experience preferred but not necessary. 

Skills & Competencies 

Critical Thinking & Problem Solving 

• Exceptional critical thinking and analytical skills, with the ability to assess complex situations, identify root causes, challenge assumptions, and develop practical, risk-based solutions.  

• Demonstrated ability to synthesize large amounts of information, connect disparate issues, and make sound decisions in ambiguous or evolving environments.  

Energy, Drive & Intensity 

• High-energy, self-motivated professional who demonstrates urgency, resilience, and a strong bias toward action and execution.  

• Proven track record of taking initiative, driving projects forward, overcoming obstacles, and delivering results with limited supervision.  

Organization & Execution 

• Highly organized with exceptional planning and prioritization skills; able to effectively manage multiple competing priorities without sacrificing quality or attention to detail.  

• Strong project execution capabilities, including the ability to anticipate challenges, proactively manage dependencies, and consistently meet deadlines.  

Leadership & Influence 

• Confident communicator who can effectively challenge the status quo, ask thoughtful questions, and influence stakeholders across varying levels of the organization.  

• Demonstrates executive presence, accountability, and ownership when leading cross-functional initiatives and driving risk management outcomes. 

The successful candidate will be intellectually curious, highly organized, and energized by solving complex business problems. They will demonstrate strong business judgment, a proactive mindset, and the ability to balance strategic thinking with disciplined execution in a demanding environment.