Chief Risk Office (CRO)

About the position Lakeside HR Group has been engaged by our client to recruit a Chief Risk Officer to join their executive leadership team. This organization is a well-established, community-focused bank with a strong commitment to sound governance, regulatory excellence, and long-term stability. This is a senior executive role responsible for building, leading, and continuously strengthening the enterprise-wide risk management function. The CRO will partner closely with executive leadership and the board to ensure the organization operates within its risk appetite while remaining compliant, resilient, and well-positioned for future growth. Responsibilities • Lead and execute a comprehensive enterprise risk management framework aligned with Bank’s strategy and risk appetite • Identify, assess, monitor, and mitigate operational, regulatory, financial, and strategic risks across the organization • Advise executive leadership and the audit committee on emerging risks and recommended mitigation strategies • Ensure compliance with all applicable federal and state banking regulations; continuously enhance policies and controls • Provide oversight of BSA/AML programs, including transaction monitoring, suspicious activity reporting, and customer due diligence • Partner with technology and information security leaders to oversee information security, data security, and vendor risk programs • Oversee cross-functional risk-related teams including compliance, internal audit, credit review, fraud, and related functions • Promote a strong, organization-wide culture of risk awareness and accountability • Represent the organization with regulators and external stakeholders; oversee preparation for audits and examinations • Contribute as a key member of executive leadership and board-level committees Requirements • Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, or a related field • 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in risk management, compliance, or related functions within the banking industry • Deep knowledge of banking regulations, compliance frameworks, and risk mitigation practices • Demonstrated experience leading managers and senior professionals • Strong strategic thinking, judgment, and decision-making skills in complex regulatory environments • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to engage effectively with executives, boards, and regulators Nice-to-haves • Master’s degree in business, finance, or a related field • Advanced industry certifications (e.g., CRCM, CISA, CIA or similar) • Experience working directly with regulatory and governing authorities Benefits • Stock option • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage • 401K with employer contribution • Paid time off and holidays • Executive-level benefits and professional development opportunities