Head of Oversight Affairs

at  SWIFT Financial Messaging Services

About the Role
As a critical service provider to the global financial system, Swift is overseen by the G-10 central banks, with the National Bank of Belgium (NBB) acting as the lead overseer. The objective of Swift oversight is to ensure effective controls and processes are in place to avoid risks to financial stability and the soundness of financial infrastructures. This includes ensuring appropriate governance structures, risk management procedures, and controls are well understood and implemented. The evolving oversight model highlights the increasing importance of oversight in delivering on Swift’s ambitious strategy.
The Head of Oversight Affairs will play a pivotal role in managing and enhancing Swift’s oversight function. This senior position involves engaging directly with the National Bank of Belgium (NBB) and other G-10 central banks, as well as coordinating with internal stakeholders and senior management. The role is central to ensuring that Swift meets all oversight expectations and maintains robust governance and risk management practices.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage Swift’s relationship with the National Bank of Belgium and other G-10 central banks, ensuring effective communication and alignment with oversight expectations
• Collaborate with subject matter experts, senior leaders, and various departments to facilitate the exchange of information and ensure that oversight requirements are understood and met
• Oversee the development and implementation of governance structures, risk management procedures, and controls to ensure compliance with regulatory standards
• Provide regular updates and reports to senior management on oversight activities, findings, and strategic implications
• Lead the development and review of policies and procedures related to oversight and governance, ensuring they are up-to-date and effective
• Identify, assess, and mitigate risks related to oversight and ensure that robust risk management practices are in place
• Foster strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to facilitate smooth communication and collaboration
• Drive the introduction of efficiencies and improvements in oversight processes through the use of new IT tools and best practices
• Support internal and external audits by providing necessary documentation and insights, and ensuring audit findings are addressed
• Lead and manage responses to any oversight-related incidents, ensuring timely resolution and implementation of corrective actions
• Mentor and develop team members, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth

Experience and Qualifications:

• 10+ years of relevant experience in financial institutions, with a strong background in oversight, governance, and regulatory compliance
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to manage cross-functional teams and drive strategic initiatives
• In-depth knowledge of oversight supervision, regulatory requirements, and risk management practices
• Strong experience in managing relationships with regulatory bodies and senior stakeholders
• Advanced degree in finance, business, law, or a related field; relevant certifications (e.g., CFA, FRM) are a plus

Competencies and Skills:

• Ability to think strategically and align oversight activities with Swift’s overall business objectives
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills; fluent in English
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and projects
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment
• Ability to adapt to changing regulatory landscapes and business needs

What we offer
We put you in control of career
We give you a competitive package
We help you perform at your best
We help you make a difference
We give you the freedom to be yourself
We give you the freedom to be yourself. We are creating an environment of unique individuals – like you – with different perspectives on the financial industry and the world. An environment in which everyone’s voice counts and where you can reach your full potential regardless of age, background, culture, colour, disability, gender, nationality, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran/military status

• Lead and manage Swift’s relationship with the National Bank of Belgium and other G-10 central banks, ensuring effective communication and alignment with oversight expectations
• Collaborate with subject matter experts, senior leaders, and various departments to facilitate the exchange of information and ensure that oversight requirements are understood and met
• Oversee the development and implementation of governance structures, risk management procedures, and controls to ensure compliance with regulatory standards
• Provide regular updates and reports to senior management on oversight activities, findings, and strategic implications
• Lead the development and review of policies and procedures related to oversight and governance, ensuring they are up-to-date and effective
• Identify, assess, and mitigate risks related to oversight and ensure that robust risk management practices are in place
• Foster strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to facilitate smooth communication and collaboration
• Drive the introduction of efficiencies and improvements in oversight processes through the use of new IT tools and best practices
• Support internal and external audits by providing necessary documentation and insights, and ensuring audit findings are addressed
• Lead and manage responses to any oversight-related incidents, ensuring timely resolution and implementation of corrective actions
• Mentor and develop team members, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growt