Risk Manager – VKB Assurance Services – Reitz, Free State
📍 Location: Reitz, Free State, South Africa
🏢 Company: VKB Group – Assurance Services Division
📅 Date Posted: 24 April 2025
📄 Job Type: Permanent
🔖 Industry: Agriculture / Financial Risk Management
📌 Application Closing Date: 09 May 2025
About the Company
The VKB Group is a dynamic agricultural enterprise rooted in the heart of South Africa’s Free State province. With a proud history spanning decades, VKB continues to play a vital role in the country’s food production and agri-processing sectors. Committed to innovation, integrity, and excellence, the group supports the sustainability and profitability of the South African agricultural industry through its various subsidiaries, including VKB Assurance Services. Within this division, the Risk Manager position is central to guiding the organization’s proactive approach to risk, compliance, and governance.
Role Overview
VKB Assurance Services is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Risk Manager to lead the organization’s risk management framework. This critical position will be responsible for identifying, analyzing, and mitigating both operational and financial risks across the VKB Group. The Risk Manager will ensure that all business units comply with relevant laws and regulations, implement effective governance practices, and cultivate a culture where risk-awareness and accountability are standard. This role requires a seasoned professional who combines strategic foresight with hands-on leadership and expert knowledge in financial and operational risk across diverse sectors, including agriculture and insurance.
Key Responsibilities
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Design, implement, and manage enterprise-wide risk management strategies aligned with VKB Group’s objectives.
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Continuously identify potential risks—financial, operational, regulatory, and reputational—within the business environment.
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Monitor, evaluate, and report on key risk indicators (KRIs) across all departments and business units.
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Ensure full compliance with relevant legislative and regulatory frameworks, including corporate governance best practices.
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Act as the primary advisor to executive leadership and the Board on all risk-related matters, offering insights and strategic solutions.
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Prepare comprehensive reports, dashboards, and risk assessments for executive meetings and Board Risk Committees.
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Foster a proactive and risk-conscious culture by providing training, mentorship, and communication to all staff levels.
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Collaborate with internal audit, legal, compliance, and external stakeholders to streamline risk governance.
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Coordinate with insurance service providers and manage coverage to mitigate insurable risks.
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Support business continuity planning and crisis management protocols.
Qualifications and Experience
Educational Requirements:
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Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Risk Management, Accounting, Law, or a related field.
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Additional qualifications or certifications in risk management, internal audit, governance, or compliance are strongly advantageous.
Experience Requirements:
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Minimum of 5 years’ experience in risk management within diversified industries such as agriculture, finance, corporate services, or insurance.
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At least 3 years’ experience in a senior leadership or managerial position with proven success in guiding teams and leading organizational strategy.
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Demonstrated expertise in developing and applying governance, compliance, and risk frameworks in complex organizational structures.
Key Skills and Competencies
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Exceptional analytical and critical thinking abilities with strong attention to detail.
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Proficient communication skills—both written and verbal—in Afrikaans and English.
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Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills; able to influence and align diverse teams and stakeholders.
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Strategic problem-solving with the ability to operate under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
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High-level report writing and presentation capabilities for executive and Board-level discussions.
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Comfortable working independently, while also promoting cross-functional collaboration.
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Strong technical and digital literacy with knowledge of risk management systems and tools.
Additional Requirements
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Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel to different sites within the VKB operational regions.
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Must be flexible, adaptable, and aligned with the values and ethics of the VKB Group.
What the Company Offers
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A market-related salary package based on skills and experience.
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Opportunity to work in a stable, industry-leading agricultural company that values integrity, performance, and professional development.
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A leadership role with strategic influence and visibility across all business functions.
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Supportive and collaborative work environment with growth and mentorship opportunities.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The VKB Group is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. VKB is committed to employment equity and transformation, especially within rural communities and the agricultural sector.
How to Apply
To apply for this role, submit your detailed CV along with a cover letter through the official VKB Group careers portal or designated recruitment platform. Ensure your application is submitted by 09 May 2025.
Explore More Opportunities
Looking for more professional roles in agriculture, risk management, or corporate governance? Visit Jobs and Career Opportunities for the latest vacancies across South Africa’s leading sectors.
