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Chief Risk Officer (CRO)

Middletown, NY (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=25+Rykowski+Lane+Middletown+NY+USA+10941)

Job Type

Full-time

Description

Come join Heritage Financial Credit Union's Executive Team as the Chief Risk Officer

We’re seeking a visionary leader to step into the role of Chief Risk Officer (CRO). This is a new and critical position that goes far beyond traditional risk management. This executive role oversees Finance, Information Technology, Strategic Business Operations, and Risk/Compliance, serving as a central force in driving sustainable growth, operational excellence, and member trust.

As CRO, you’ll join our Executive Team with the mandate to not only protect the organization but to help lead it forward, aligning enterprise strategy with sound financial stewardship, technology, efficient operations, and a strong culture of compliance.

If you're a strategic, forward-thinker who thrives at the intersection of risk and innovation and ready to bring bold ideas, strong leadership, and a cross-functional mindset to a collaborative Executive Team, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact at our mission-driven financial institution.

Here's a little about us:

Heritage Financial Credit Union is a member-owned financial institution that is committed to helping our members achieve their financial goals and building a stronger community. We believe that everyone deserves access to affordable financial services, and we are dedicated to providing our members with the tools and resources they need to achieve their financial dreams. Our vision is to be the leading financial institution in the communities we serve, and we are committed to creating a culture of excellence where our employees can thrive. We believe in creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected, and where we can all work together to achieve our goals. We recognize that our employees are our most important asset, and we are committed to providing them with the training, development, and opportunities they need to succeed. Our values are at the heart of everything we do. We believe in:

+ Integrity: We are honest and trustworthy in all of our dealings with our members, employees, and the community.

+ Excellence: We strive to provide our members with the best possible service.

+ Teamwork: We believe that we can achieve more together than we can alone.

+ Respect: We treat each other with dignity and respect.

+ Community: We are committed to giving back to the communities we serve.

If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding career in the financial services industry with a company that is committed to its Mission, Vision and Values, we encourage you to apply and see below for details about the position. We offer a competitive salary and comprehensive employee benefits package, company 401K match and generous Paid Time Off.

POSITION PURPOSE

The Chief Risk Officer (CRO) is a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for providing strategic direction, leadership, and oversight across Finance, Risk & Regulatory Compliance, Information Technology, and Strategic Business Operations. The CRO ensures the institution maintains strong financial health, effectively manages enterprise-wide risks, and leverages data and technology to achieve strategic objectives. This role plays a critical part in safeguarding organizational stability, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence while driving innovation and member-focused growth.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND BASIC DUTIES

Enterprise Risk & Compliance

+ Develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive enterprise risk management framework.

+ Oversee compliance with regulatory requirements, internal controls, and audit readiness.

+ Serve as the executive liaison with regulators, auditors, and the Board of Directors on matters of risk and compliance.

+ Establish and monitor risk appetite, risk metrics, and reporting to ensure informed decision-making.

Finance Oversight

+ Provide executive leadership of financial operations, including asset/liability management, capital adequacy, budgeting, and forecasting.

+ Ensure accuracy, transparency, and integrity of financial reporting.

+ Collaborate with the CEO, COO, and Board to develop financial strategies that support sustainable growth and member value.

Information Technology & Security

+ Oversee IT operations, systems administration, and cybersecurity.

+ Drive digital transformation initiatives aligned with organizational strategy.

+ Ensure data security, resilience, and business continuity planning.

Strategic Business Operations

+ Provide executive-level oversight for departments within Strategic Business Operations (Branch Operations, Business Intelligence, Project Management, and Core Systems Administration).

+ Ensure alignment of operational execution with strategic objectives and member experience goals.

+ Champion process optimization, operational efficiency, and cross-departmental collaboration.

Leadership & Governance

+ Serve as a trusted advisor to the CEO, executive team, and Board of Directors.

+ Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration across departments to drive alignment, ethical decision-making, and continuous improvement.

+ Develop and mentor senior leaders within Finance, Risk, IT, and Operations while creating clear career paths and succession plans in line with organizational needs.

+ Represent the organization externally with regulators, industry peers, and business partners.

+ Performs additional duties as assigned.

What's in it for you?

Salary: $190,000 - $225,000 per year (based on experience)

Benefits:

• Incentives and Merit Increases

• Paid Time Off & Paid Federal Holidays

• Medical, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance

• Employee Assistance Program

• Flexible Spending Accounts/HSA

• 401(k) with Employer Match

• Educational Assistance

• Paid Time to Volunteer

Requirements

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION:

+ Bachelors degree in Finance, Accounting, Risk Management, Business Administration, or related field required; Master’s degree (MBA, MS) preferred. A combination of education and commensurate experience will be considered.

+ Minimum of 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in financial services, including direct oversight of risk, compliance, finance, or operations.

+ Professional certifications such as CPA, CFA, CIA, CISA, or CRCM preferred.

+ Demonstrated success leading IT governance, cybersecurity oversight, or digital transformation initiatives.

+ Exceptional strategic, analytical, and communication skills with the ability to influence at all levels of the organization.

+ Proven experience managing diverse teams and building strong cross-functional alignment.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE:

+ Deep knowledge of enterprise risk management, regulatory compliance (NCUA, CFPB, FFIEC, BSA,AML), and financial reporting.

+ Experience using P.C. based software including Microsoft Office and lending systems etc.

SKILLS/ABILITIES

+ Ability to balance risk mitigation with strategic growth initiatives.

+ Strong leadership presence with credibility across regulators, staff, and the Board.

+ Track record of driving operational excellence and financial performance

Salary Description

$190,000 - $225,000 (depending on experience)