Risk Director (CRO) - Motor Finance

We have been selected as the exclusive partner to a ambitious new entrant in the UK motor finance / vehicle finance market - this new lender is engineered for growth, technology-led efficiency, and customer transparency. Backed by seasoned automotive and financial services professionals, the business is now entering its regulatory readiness and pre-launch phase, with full authorisation and live operations targeted in the months ahead. This is a rare opportunity to join at inception and take a Board-level leadership role in defining the risk and governance backbone of a modern, purpose-driven motor finance business. Business verticals will include a presence in Retail (Online Car Finance and Dealerships), Business Fleet and Lease Finance. You will have a strong background in the UK motor finance market, including underwriting, pricing, and credit lifecycle management.

Role Purpose

The Chief Risk Officer (CRO) will be responsible for establishing, leading, and overseeing the Risk function across the business. This role will ensure that the company maintains a robust risk management framework that supports sustainable growth, protects the organisation from undue exposure, and aligns with regulatory and corporate objectives. The CRO will embed best practice in risk management across all business areas, ensuring that decisions are made with full consideration of their credit, operational, conduct, and reputational impacts.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive enterprise-wide Risk Management Framework covering credit, operational and market risk.

• Lead the design and execution of risk strategies, policies, and governance structures that support the company's strategic objectives.

• Oversee all aspects of credit risk, including underwriting standards, portfolio monitoring, and arrears management for the motor finance business.

• Provide independent risk oversight, challenge, and assurance to the CEO and Board on risk exposures and emerging issues.

• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, including those from the FCA and PRA, and maintain an effective relationship with regulatory bodies.

• Chair or actively participate in risk committees, reporting key findings and recommendations.

• Promote a strong risk-aware culture across all levels of the organisation through training, communication, and leadership.

• Oversee stress testing, risk appetite setting, and scenario analysis to support strategic decision-making.

• Work closely with business units to ensure customer outcomes are fair, transparent, and aligned with the company's values and risk appetite.

Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum of 15 years' experience in a credit risk leadership role within the motor finance industry.

• Proven experience in establishing and leading risk functions within regulated financial institutions.

• Deep understanding of consumer credit, affordability, and arrears management in an auto finance context.

• Strong background in regulatory compliance, governance frameworks, and risk reporting to senior leadership or boards.

• Bachelor's degree in finance, economics, or a related field; a master's degree or relevant professional qualification (e.g., FRM, PRM, CFA) is desirable.

Knowledge and Skills

• Expert knowledge of risk management principles, methodologies, and tools used in financial services.

• Strong understanding of the UK motor finance market, including underwriting, pricing, and credit lifecycle management.

• Excellent analytical, strategic, and problem-solving skills.

• Strong communication and influencing skills, with the ability to engage effectively with senior executives and regulators.

• Ability to interpret and apply complex regulatory requirements in a pragmatic and commercial manner.

• Proficiency in risk data analysis, reporting systems, and modern risk management technology.