Head of Risk


 

Learn About Farmerline

Farmerline is dedicated to reimagining how the world thinks about and invests in the livelihoods of small-scale farmers. Our mission is to create lasting profits for farmers everywhere. We approach challenges with bold and systemic thinking while maintaining a lean and nimble operation. 

Farmerline was founded in 2013, has been a fast growing Agtech company in Africa. The company has raised over $20 million since incorporation. Farmerline’s digital marketplace combines logistics, field agents, farm resources and agribusiness partnerships to support African farmers. We have reached 1.7M farmers by deploying our tools and services through 3,000+ strategic partners across 48 countries. 

Impact assessments show that averagely we increase yield by ~2X and $306 increase in net income. Our technology platform Mergdata is licensed or white labelled to development partners, global food traders and governments who use its customisable tools to improve the lives of farmers around the world

We foster a learning organization where you will have the opportunity to apply your ideas and creativity to solve problems on a daily basis. If you are drawn to a dynamic, collaborative culture, set high standards, and tackle challenges with determination and to make a positive impact on millions of lives, Farmerline is the perfect environment for you to thrive. 

Field

Details

Job Title

Chief Risk Officer

Department 

Finance

Incumbent Supervisor

CEO

Suggested start date

Immediately

Length of assignment

Permanent

Role Overview

Connecting farmers to quality farm inputs and relevant information are key Farmerline’s interventions in creating lasting profit for the farmers we serve while creating jobs for micro-entrepreneurs in the value chains we work in. This role involves identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks to ensure the organization operates in a secure and compliant manner. The CRO will collaborate with senior management and the board to establish risk tolerance levels, oversee risk assessment and analysis, and implement risk mitigation measures. The CRO plays a vital role in promoting a risk-aware culture, staying compliant with regulations, and safeguarding the organization's financial and operational well-being.


 

Responsibilities 

 

Risk Management Strategy 

  • Develop and implement an effective risk management strategy that aligns with the organization's goals and objectives.

Risk Assessment & Mitigation/Control

  • Identify, evaluate, and prioritize risks that the organization faces, including financial, operational, strategic, and compliance risks.
  • Utilize quantitative and qualitative methods to assess risk exposure.
  • Develop risk mitigation plans and control mechanisms to minimize the impact of identified risks.
  • Implement risk management frameworks and policies to ensure compliance.
  • Create regular risk reports on business units for senior management and the board, summarizing key risk indicators and mitigation efforts.
  • Provide insights and recommendations to address identified risks.

Others

  • Conduct stress tests and scenario analysis to assess the organization's resilience under adverse conditions.
  • Develop and maintain business continuity and crisis management plans to ensure the organization's ability to respond to unforeseen events.
  • Oversee insurance programs and risk transfer arrangements to protect the organization from unforeseen losses and optimize the cost-effectiveness of insurance coverage.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in finance, risk management, business, or a related field. A Master's degree or relevant professional certification (e.g., FRM, PRM, CFA) is often preferred.
  • Proven professional experience in SME risk management across West/East Africa, ideally with agriculture and farmer based businesses with at least 7-10 years in leadership/senior management roles.
  • Strong understanding of financial markets, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, as the role involves collaboration with various stakeholders.
  • Leadership and people management skills to oversee a team of risk professionals.
  • Ability to think strategically and make sound decisions under uncertainty.
  • Good knowledge of or working experience with agro input dealers and outgrower businesses in Ghana
  • Deep understanding of farmer engagement and farmers’ interaction with regards to risk assessment..
  • Strong leadership experience and ability to lead a team in executing projects and exceeding targets.
  • Excellent oral communication, writing and presentation skills and also fluent in both written and spoken  English and French 
  •  Demonstrate a high level of ethical commitment and trustworthiness.
Back to list