Director of Risk Management

R & W Group has a fantastic new opportunity! One of our favorite law firm clients is looking for a Managing Director of their Strategic Advisory and Policy Group (SAPG). This is a newly created position. In this role, you would serve as a key architect and driver of the Group’s mission and strategic direction. You would combine deep expertise in intelligence collection and analysis with exceptional political acumen and the ability to provide clients with high-level decision-making support and tailored risk mitigation strategies. You would ensure the delivery of high-quality products, manage complex client engagements, and uphold the SAPG’s reputation for excellence and integrity.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership & Strategy

Define and drive the SAPG’s strategic direction in alignment with organizational goals and client priorities.

Lead, motivate, and develop a diverse, multidisciplinary team in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment.

Collaborate closely with the Principal Strategic Advisor (PSA) and the SAPG “brain trust” to shape priorities, methodologies, and outcomes.

Client & Project Management

Oversee complex, multi-stakeholder projects and client relationships from inception through delivery.

Ensure that all analytical outputs and recommendations meet the highest standards of rigor, accuracy, and clarity.

Develop and execute tailored strategies to support clients in high-level decision-making and risk mitigation.

Operational Excellence

Establish, refine, and maintain effective internal and external work processes to maximize productivity, communication, and accountability.

Foster an inclusive culture of performance, collaboration, and professional development across all SAPG personnel.

Implement performance metrics, reporting systems, and continuous improvement practices.

Stakeholder Engagement & Representation

Conduct extensive outreach to leaders across government, politics, business, donor communities, and international organizations.

Represent the SAPG in strategic discussions, conferences, and forums to strengthen networks and enhance visibility.

Serve as a trusted advisor and thought leader on matters of intelligence, policy, and strategic risk.

REQUIRED EDUCATION, KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Advanced degree in International Relations, Political Science, Security Studies, or related field strongly preferred.
• 12-15 years of experience in government, strategic advisory, risk management, or related sectors.
• At least 5 years in a senior leadership or executive-level role, managing multidisciplinary teams and complex client portfolios.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Proven expertise in intelligence collection, analysis, and synthesis for high-level decision-making.

Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire a diverse, high-performing professional team.

Exceptional interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.

Strong political judgment, discretion, and capacity to navigate sensitive environments.

Strategic thinker with a track record of innovation and measurable impact.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to sit and stand for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds.