Chief Risk Officer (CRO)

Heritage Financial Credit Union • City of Middletown, NY

89d • $190,000 - $225,000

About The Position

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.

Requirements

• Bachelors degree in Finance, Accounting, Risk Management, Business Administration, or related field required; Master’s degree (MBA, MS) preferred.
• 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.

Nice To Haves

• 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• 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.
• Oversee IT operations, systems administration, and cybersecurity.
• Drive digital transformation initiatives aligned with organizational strategy.
• Ensure data security, resilience, and business continuity planning.
• 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.
• 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.

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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees