Executive Due Diligence & Risk Specialist

About the role

This role supports high-stakes executive appointment decisions by delivering comprehensive risk screenings, background verifications and capability assessments for Board candidates. It works within a strong governance framework, giving evidence-based insights to Boards and executive leadership so hiring decisions stay informed, compliant and risk-aware. The position is fully remote within South Africa and sits inside a collaborative risk and governance team.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct full executive background checks, including credit checks, qualification verifications, identity checks, criminal record checks, employment history checks and professional references.
• Perform risk screenings against Politically Exposed Persons (PEP), Anti-Money Laundering (AML), sanctions and Targeted Financial Sanctions (TFS) lists.
• Analyse assessment findings and prepare clear, evidence-based reports with objective hiring recommendations for executive leadership.
• Identify and highlight potential reputational, regulatory, legal and capability risks linked to prospective Board and executive appointments.
• Present risk insights and findings clearly to Boards and senior executives.
• Maintain strict confidentiality and comply with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and other relevant legislation.

Required profile

• Tertiary qualification in Law, Risk, Governance, Compliance, Forensics or a related field.
• Proven experience conducting background checks or risk assessments for senior-level or executive roles.
• Demonstrated knowledge of PEP, AML and sanctions screening tools and corporate governance environments.
• Ability to manage several assessments at once under tight deadlines in a virtual setting.

Required skills

• Strong analytical and report-writing skills with high attention to detail.
• Knowledge of PEP, AML and sanctions screening tools.

What we offer

• Remote / virtual work arrangement.
• Permanent employment.