Risk/ Finance Specialist (Group Independent Validation Function)

About the opportunity

NLB Group is looking for a Risk or Finance professional to join the Group Independent Validation Function, an independent second-line function supporting compliance with BCBS 239 principles.

The role offers Group-wide exposure to risk data, financial and regulatory reporting, data governance, controls, and reporting processes across different entities and functions. It is suited to someone who enjoys analysing complex data, challenging assumptions, and assessing whether data and controls can be relied upon.

Key responsibilities

• Assess risk data aggregation, financial reporting, regulatory reporting, and related control processes
• Review data governance arrangements, including ownership, accountability, escalation, and issue management
• Evaluate business data quality rules, reconciliations, reporting controls, and exception-handling processes
• Assess whether risk and finance reports are accurate, complete, timely, clear, and fit for purpose
• Identify control weaknesses, inconsistencies, and areas requiring remediation
• Perform independent testing of selected data, calculations, controls, and reporting outputs
• Prepare clear findings, conclusions, and recommendations
• Follow up on remediation activities and assess whether identified issues have been addressed effectively
• Cooperate with colleagues across Risk, Finance, IT, Data Governance, Compliance, and Internal Audit

Candidate profile

• University degree in Finance, Risk Management, Economics, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field
• At least five years of relevant professional experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Risk management
  • Finance or financial reporting
  • Regulatory reporting
  • Data governance or data quality
  • Internal audit
• Good understanding of reporting processes, controls, governance, and data quality concepts
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
• Ability to form and defend an independent, evidence-based view
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work effectively with different functions and senior stakeholders
• Excellent written and spoken English

Considered an advantage

• Experience in banking or financial services
• Knowledge of BCBS 239 or other Basel regulatory frameworks
• Experience with risk data aggregation or regulatory reporting
• Experience in second-line assurance, internal audit, or independent validation
• Familiarity with SQL, data analysis tools, or reporting platforms

What we offer

• A Group-level role with exposure across NLB Group entities
• The opportunity to develop specialist expertise in BCBS 239
• Collaboration with experienced professionals across Risk, Finance, IT, and Data Governance
• Work on complex and visible assignments with real Group-wide relevance
• A high degree of professional independence and ownership
• Flexible working arrangements
• Regional fieldwork and travel across NLB Group

Location

Skopje-based, with full remote or hybrid options, depending on business needs and the candidate’s location.