Market Update
Inside the USA’s Risk Management Talent Market
Risk management is central to the stability and compliance of the USA’s financial system. But the strength of a firm's risk function depends on the strength of its people.
This report breaks down current hiring trends, salary benchmarks, and emerging priorities across key risk verticals - giving organizations and professionals the knowledge to build better teams.
2025 USA risk management recruitment outlook
A candidate-drive market remains the norm
Despite tighter economic conditions, hiring across risk management roles in the USA continues. Demand is especially strong in liquidity risk, capital policy, and treasury management. Risk professionals with mid-level experience are in high demand, as they bring the perfect mix of independence, technical knowledge, and adaptability.
AI and automation are shaping future skill sets
Many institutions are formalizing AI governance strategies, particularly in model risk and fraud. Professionals who can interpret machine learning outputs through a regulatory lens are becoming essential. Python, SQL, and explainable AI are fast becoming baseline competencies in financial services risk hiring.
Geographic flexibility is expanding, but RTO policies persist
New York still leads in volume, but markets like Charlotte, Dallas, Tampa, and Chicago are emerging as key hiring hubs. While hybrid work is still offered, full-time remote roles are becoming rare, particularly in oversight-heavy areas. Firms that balance location flexibility with clear communication around in-office policies are seeing better retention outcomes.
Hiring managers face pressure to move fast and act decisively
Top risk professionals often field multiple offers, and those with capital markets, ALM, private credit, or quantitative risk backgrounds are particularly sought after. Firms that streamline interviews and showcase long-term growth opportunities will gain a competitive edge.
For professionals, cross-functional agility matters
Credit risk specialists are stepping into roles with embedded finance, model governance, or ESG integration. The most competitive candidates demonstrate the ability to work across analytics, compliance, and technology. Career progression increasingly depends on mastering both risk concepts and data fluency.
Compensation remains a top priority, especially at mid-level
While salary inflation has slowed since 2023–2024, expectations remain high. Total compensation packages including equity, bonus schemes, and development opportunities are essential to attract and retain top performers in risk management roles.
FAQ: Risk management in the USA
Liquidity risk, capital policy, model risk, operational risk, and private credit roles are seeing the highest hiring activity across both buy and sell side institutions.
Looking for your next career opportunity? Browse our current risk management vacancies across leading financial firms.
New York is the largest hub for risk management roles in the USA, but Charlotte, Dallas, Tampa, Chicago, and San Francisco are rapidly growing as alternatives due to their lower operating and living costs, expanding financial infrastructure, and deepening local talent pools.
Technical fluency in Python, SQL, and data analytics is increasingly expected. Candidates with experience in AI/ML governance, regulatory frameworks, or model validation are especially competitive.
AI is driving demand for professionals who understand automation risks, explainability, and compliance. Model governance is a fast-growing vertical, and AI fluency is an advantage even in traditional roles.
Hiring is expected to remain steady, particularly in response to evolving regulations, digital transformation, and expansion into private markets. Treasury, liquidity, and credit risk will be priority functions.
If you’d like further support with your risk management headcount planning or hiring requirements, request a call back from the Selby Jennings team. Our specialists can provide bespoke market insights, benchmarking data, and hiring strategies to help you secure the right talent.
Mid-level talent is receiving the most competitive offers. Total compensation (including bonuses, flexible benefits, and upskilling opportunities) is now a primary differentiator for employers.
Download 'Inside the USA's Risk Management Talent Market' by completing the form above to access current base salary and total compensation benchmarks for key risk verticals and financial hubs across the USA.
Need support with risk recruitment? Speak to our specialists
Whether you’re building resilience, meeting new regulations, or filling leadership gaps, hiring the right risk talent is essential.
Our consultants specialize in risk recruitment across financial centers globally, helping firms secure professionals with the technical depth and regulatory insight to make an immediate impact. Speak with our team to learn more about our talent solutions.
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