
VisionFund Kenya, a dynamic financial services arm of World Vision Kenya, is committed to fostering sustainable financial inclusion across underserved communities. This mission aligns with Kenya’s Vision 2030, which emphasizes economic empowerment through accessible financial services. As a Risk & Compliance Manager, you’ll play a pivotal role in ensuring operational integrity and regulatory adherence, making this one of the most impactful Nairobi job vacancies in the microfinance sector. With the financial services industry contributing 9.6% to Kenya’s GDP in 2024, per recent economic reports, this role offers stability and growth potential in a thriving sector.
Job Overview: Risk & Compliance Manager at VisionFund Kenya
The Risk & Compliance Manager is tasked with establishing and sustaining a robust Risk and Compliance Framework. This role focuses on identifying, mitigating, and monitoring Operational, Credit, and Regulatory risks across VisionFund Kenya’s operations. By embedding risk ownership, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and supporting strategic business execution, you’ll safeguard institutional integrity while driving sustainable growth.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational & Credit Risk Oversight (40%): Lead field-level risk reviews, monitor portfolio quality, ensure loan process integrity, conduct root cause analyses of losses/frauds, and maintain Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Plans (BCP/DRP).
- Enterprise Risk & Compliance Framework (25%): Develop and maintain an organization-wide risk framework, monitor Key Risk Indicators (KRIs), Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and ensure compliance with AML/CFT, Data Protection, and DCP regulations. Serve as the Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) and regulatory liaison.
- Planning, Analytics & Reporting (20%): Develop risk plans, budgets, and dashboards, analyze audit/compliance findings, and prepare quarterly reports for the Board and VisionFund International (VFI).
- Risk Culture & Training (10%): Implement risk and compliance training, build risk champions across branches, and run awareness programs.
- Leadership & Special Projects (5%): Contribute to strategic reviews, process improvements, and cross-functional risk initiatives.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Zero major regulatory or compliance breaches.
- ≤5% recurring operational loss events.
- ≤5% unresolved audit findings older than 12 months.
- 100% completion of quarterly BCP/DRP tests.
- ≥85% audit recommendations implemented on time.
- Portfolio at Risk (PAR >30 days) ≤5%.
- 100% branches with updated risk registers.
Ideal Candidate Profile
To excel in this role, you’ll need a mix of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and leadership skills. Here’s what VisionFund Kenya is looking for:
- Qualifications & Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, or a related field.
- Professional certification (CPA, ACCA, CIA, CISA, CRMA, etc.) preferred.
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in Risk, Compliance, or Internal Audit in microfinance or financial services.
- Strong analytical, communication, and influencing skills.
- Proven expertise in credit risk, operational risk, and regulatory compliance.
- Key Competencies:
- Deep knowledge of risk frameworks and regulatory compliance (e.g., CBK, AML/CFT, GDPR).
- Strategic thinking to align risk initiatives with business goals.
- Strong internal controls and audit readiness expertise.
- Leadership in fostering a risk-aware culture.
- Analytical skills for actionable risk intelligence.
- Excellent communication for clear reporting and stakeholder engagement.
- High ethical standards and change management capabilities.
Why Apply for This Role?
This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the risk and compliance landscape of a leading microfinance institution. With Kenya’s microfinance sector serving over 1.7 million clients, as reported by the Association of Microfinance Institutions (AMFI) in 2024, your work will directly contribute to financial inclusion and community empowerment. The role also provides exposure to senior leadership, cross-functional collaboration, and career-defining projects, making it a standout among finance jobs in Kenya.
Tips to Boost Your Application Success
To stand out in this competitive job market in Kenya, consider these career advice tips:
- Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant experience in risk management, compliance, or microfinance. Use keywords like “risk framework,” “regulatory compliance,” and “financial inclusion” to align with the job description.
- Showcase Certifications: Professional certifications like CPA, CIA, or CRMA can set you apart. Mention them prominently in your application.
- Demonstrate Impact: Use metrics (e.g., “Reduced audit findings by 20%”) to quantify past achievements in risk or compliance roles.
- Prepare for Interviews: Be ready to discuss Kenya’s regulatory landscape (e.g., CBK guidelines, AML/CFT) and how you’ve driven risk-aware cultures.
- Network: Engage with industry professionals on platforms like LinkedIn to stay updated on microfinance jobs in Kenya.
How to Apply
Ready to seize this opportunity? Follow these steps:
- Visit the application portal at World Vision Careers. (https://worldvision.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/WorldVisionInternational/job/Nairobi-Kenya/Risk-and-Compliance-Manager–VisionFund-Kenya_JR45932)
- Complete the online application form with your updated CV and cover letter.
- Ensure your application highlights relevant experience and certifications.
- Submit before the deadline to be considered