Senior Risk Manager

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Job Description:

Parsons is looking for an amazingly talented Senior Risk Manager to join our team in a client-side PMO environment. In this role, you will act as the vital link between project delivery and strategic risk governance, ensuring that one of the world's most ambitious infrastructure developments remains resilient, compliant, and aligned with our client’s objectives.

As a core member of the client-side Program Management Office (PMO), you will provide independent oversight of risk across a portfolio of complex Design–Build projects, shaping risk strategy, standards, and reporting frameworks. You will work closely with client leadership, delivery partners, and contractors to ensure risks are proactively identified, transparently communicated, and effectively mitigated—supporting informed decision-making and the long-term success of the Kingdom’s landmark infrastructure program.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Oversee all risk reporting within the client-side PMO, including risk exposure analysis, risk-adjusted forecasts, and integration with cost planning, budgeting, and cash flow forecastingto give the client a clear view of risk impacts.

• Develop and maintain program-level risk registers for complex contracts (FIDIC, NEC, or bespoke), ensuring full adherence to contractual obligations, KSA regulations, and client governance standards.

• Proactively identify strategic, contractual, technical, and financial risks early in the project lifecycle, developing robust mitigation strategies and contingency plans to protect the Client’s interests.

• Lead the assessment and analysis of major risk events related to variations, change orders, and potential disputes, providing client-side recommendations and negotiation support.

• Act as the primary risk management point of contact for the Client, government authorities, and major contractors, ensuring risk information is clear, timely, and aligned with client priorities.

• Mentor and lead a team of Risk Analysts, Project Controls, and Commercial Specialists, fostering a culture of transparency, professional integrity, and risk-aware decision-making.

• Provide strategic direction and leadership for all risk governance activities across the program, defining standards, procedures, and reporting cadence within the PMO.

• Develop and implement risk management strategies and frameworks to support project objectives, ensure timely delivery of outputs, and maximize value for the client.

• Ensure compliance with contractual terms and conditions through risk-based oversight of claims, variations, and disputes, advising on exposure and resolution strategies.

• Provide expert advice on contract risk allocation, interpretation, and mitigation strategies, supporting the client in negotiations and decision-making.

• Support the development and management of project and program budgets by highlighting risk allowances, contingencies, and potential cost impacts.

• Monitor risk-related cost and schedule drivers and implement robust control measures to prevent overruns and reduce likelihood/impact of key risks.

• Prepare detailed risk reports, dashboards, forecasts, and analytics for senior client management, governance boards, and PMO leadership.

• Coordinate with the procurement team to ensure that risk considerations are embedded into procurement strategies, tender documents, and evaluation criteria.

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, contractors, and consultants to ensure early visibility of emerging risks and collaborative mitigation.

• Identify, assess, and mitigate program-wide risks throughout the project lifecycle, including strategic, operational, technical, financial, and stakeholder risks.

• Develop contingency plans and early-warning indicators to address potential challenges before they impact client outcomes.

• Lead and mentor the risk and project controls team, fostering a culture of collaboration, excellence, and proactive risk management.

• Provide training and guidance to PMO and project team members to enhance risk awareness, tools usage, and reporting quality.

• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including clients, contractors, and consultants, to ensure alignment on risk priorities, ownership, and actions.

• Represent the client-side PMO in risk-related discussions and negotiations with stakeholders, supporting informed, defensible decisions.

• Ensure adherence to legal, regulatory, and contractual requirements by integrating compliance risks into the overall risk management framework.

• Prepare and present comprehensive risk and assurance reports to stakeholders and senior client management, highlighting key exposures, trends, and recommended actions.

What Required Skills You'll Bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Risk Management, Quantity Surveying, or a related field.

• Minimum of 15 years of experience in risk management and/or commercial/project controls across multiple construction or infrastructure sectors, including client-side roles.

• Extensive knowledge of risk management principles, cost & commercial management, procurement processes, and contract management frameworks.

• Proven track record of managing large-scale, complex projects or programs and supporting delivery within budget and schedule through effective risk governance.

• Familiarity with local KSA regulations, industry standards, and best practices in client-side PMO environments.

• Proficiency in project management, project controls, and risk analysis tools (e.g., Primavera P6, risk modeling software, financial tools).

• Exceptional communication and leadership skills, with the ability to present complex risk information clearly to senior client stakeholders.

• Ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships, facilitate workshops, and support dispute avoidance and resolution from a risk perspective.

What Desired Skills You'll Bring:

• Professional certification such as RMP, PMP, MRICS, or equivalent is preferred.

• Experience in PMO / client-side Delivery Partner projects is highly desirable.

• Strong strategic thinking and decision-making capabilities, with the ability to align risk strategies to client objectives.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including qualitative and quantitative risk analysis.

• Demonstrated leadership and team management expertise in multidisciplinary environments.

• Attention to detail and accuracy in risk, financial, and performance reporting.

• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities and risks effectively.

Parsons equally employs representation at all job levels no matter the race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age, disability or genetic information.

We truly invest and care about our employee’s wellbeing and provide endless growth opportunities as the sky is the limit, so aim for the stars! Imagine next and join the Parsons quest—APPLY TODAY!

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