First Line Risk Team Lead

Will consider candidates in Buffalo, Bridgeport, Wilmington, Baltimore, and NYC.

Implement defined first line of defense risk management initiatives within the business unit in support of the Enterprise Risk Framework. Manage the risk work and employee assignments to those initiatives responsible for risk and control functions in the business unit. Serve as Subject Matter Expert (SME) for execution of risk functions;
Serve as project leader on complex and highly visible risk management projects. Embraces “The Way We Work” principles—core behaviors that drive agility, collaboration, and customer focus. These principles guide how we operate, improve processes, and deliver meaningful outcomes for our customers and communities.

• Foster a proactive risk culture grounded in the Enterprise Risk Framework—emphasizing self‑identification, self‑curing, and scalable practices. First Line risk management is responsible for risk identification, monitoring, testing, and issue management, as well as contributing to operational risk and compliance initiatives by helping implement less complex efforts within the business.
• The First Line Risk Team Lead manages and oversees the work of risk analysts.
• Act as subject‑matter expert for execution of risk functions and lead complex, highly visible risk management projects.
• Responsibilities include:
  • Ownership of the Annual Testing and Monitoring Plan for Enterprise Platforms.
  • Governance of Process Maps across Enterprise Platforms.
  • Building, evolving and maintaining a KRI Inventory and Monitoring Program for Enterprise Platforms.
  • Validation of self‑identified and Regulatory Remediation Plans.
• Key skills and attributes for the role include:
  • Self‑starter.
  • Strategic mindset – helping to build/evolve this newly formed team.
  • Ability to quickly adapt to change and re‑prioritize work.
  • Ability to influence without authority.
    
    Effective collaboration skills.
  • Responsible for execution of risk initiatives, documentation of key business processes, identification and assessment of risks and internal controls.
  • Planning, execution and reporting of the business unit's risk‑based testing program, performing control testing and ensuring compliance with M&T's First Line of Defense Guidance.
  • Monitoring business unit performance with respect to KRIs and recommending enhancements.
  • Completing Risk Control Self‑Assessments (RCSAs) and reporting.
  • Identifying emerging risks, controlling risks associated with new or changed products, services or markets.
  • Providing guidance on remediation plans, managing completion and validating quality of implemented plans.
  • Providing input on staff performance and growth/development of risk initiatives.
  • Adhering to applicable compliance/operational risk controls and maintaining internal control standards.
  • Promoting an environment that supports belonging and reflects the M&T Bank brand.
  • Completing other related duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience.
• 5 or more years' relevant work experience, or in lieu of a degree.

• This is a hybrid position requiring 3 days in‑office per week.
• Eligible candidates must live within commuting distance to 345 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14203.

M&T Bank is committed to fair, competitive, and market‑informed pay for our employees. The pay range for this position is $89,600.00 - $ Annual (USD). The successful candidate’s particular combination of knowledge, skills, and experience will inform their specific compensation.

Buffalo, New York, United States of America