Haere Mai!

We are the Kaitiaki / Guardians of New Zealand Superannuation. We are proud of our Te Whāinga / Our purpose: Sustainable investment delivering strong returns for all New Zealanders. We invest government contributions to the NZ Super Fund, a global investment fund helping to ensure the country can pay for the growing cost of universal superannuation (New Zealand Superannuation) in the future. We also oversee the Elevate Fund, which invests in small, fast-growing New Zealand companies.

At the Guardians there’s an energy, passion and a shared commitment to excellence: in 2022 the NZ Super Fund was named the world’s best-performing sovereign wealth fund. The work is complex, innovative and intellectually stimulating. Sustainable finance, including a commitment to being net zero by 2050, is core to our Mātāpono / way of working.

About the position

The Senior Portfolio Risk Analyst represents an attractive proposition to gain exposure to a unique portfolio of investments. You will be the key subject matter expert in managing and assessing market-facing risks, including credit and liquidity risks. This role demands a blend of technical expertise, market insight, and practical experience in risk environments to support investment strategies.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Analyse and report on credit risk, including the evaluation of fixed income, derivatives and structured finance instruments.
• Develop and utilise models and frameworks to assess risk and quantify credit enhancements.
• Analyse new transactions by applying ratings and stress testing methodologies, similar to credit rating agencies, to come up with an internal credit rating for the transaction.
• Regularly interact with the investment team, making informed judgement calls and explaining decisions to senior stakeholders.
• Write reports and papers for management and the Board, addressing queries and providing insights on active risk within the portfolio.
• Engage in cross-training across the risk team to enhance overall team capability.

About you

We are interested to engage with candidates who possess a fundamental understanding of credit risk, combined with some (but not necessarily all) of the below skillsets:

• Experience in risk management within investment/retail banking or fund management, 
• Exposure to complex credit ratings and structured finance.
• Proficiency in financial statement analysis and the ability to apply this to portfolio risk assessment.
• Advanced Excel skills, with Python as a desirable addition.
• Familiarity with complex systems like Bloomberg Risk module (MARS) and tools like Moody’s or S&P portals.
• Understanding of credit risk models and frameworks used by credit agencies.
• Knowledge of regulations and the ability to navigate legalistic credit arrangements.

 In addition to the above technical skills, attributes that will indicate success in the role include: 

• Cognitive agility to adapt and respond to unique problems.
• Strong communication skills to effectively liaise with investment teams and explain complex risk assessments.
• Resilience and curiosity to aggregate and analyse large datasets.
• Ability to translate regulatory standards into practical risk models.
• Detailed-oriented with a knack for solving complex problems and making data-driven decisions.

What we offer  

• A dynamic, exciting place to work with a team united by our common purpose of sustainable investment delivering strong returns for all New Zealanders.
• Competitive remuneration package including base salary, discretionary bonus programme, and up to 8% KiwiSaver matching.
• World class professional development, career pathways and job rotation opportunities.
• Comprehensive leave and benefits programme including strong parental leave package and insurance cover.
• Flexible and accessible work environment that reflects our commitment to equity and an inclusive team.

 
How to apply:
We encourage and welcome applications from people with diverse experience, including applicants interested in discussing flexible work options and those with specific disability needs. As a proudly committed equal opportunity employer, we challenge discrimination and actively work to eliminate bias in our hiring practices. Diversity of experience and diversity of background help us to solve complex problems and deliver on our purpose.

We recognise the importance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and invest in partnership with a range of Iwi/Māori organisations. We warmly welcome and value Mana Whenua who wish to work with us. We are committed to understanding Te Ao Māori and integrating it into our workplace culture, for the benefit of all future generations in Aotearoa.

Jenny Parker from Convergence is partnering with the Guardians to recruit this role, you are welcome to reach out to me on 027 9137255 for a confidential discussion, or alternatively, please forward your details in strict confidence by clicking 'apply' below.