Organisational Risk Manager Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
Occupation overview
Advises organisations on assessment processes to determine actual and potential risks pertaining to the organisation as a total entity.
What does a Organisational Risk Manager do?
An Organisational Risk Manager helps an organisation understand what could prevent it from achieving its objectives. The role involves advising on risk-assessment processes, considering risks across the organisation as a whole, and supporting coordinated risk and compliance activities. Work may include enterprise-wide risk management, risk coordination, risk advice, organisational development and risk compliance management.
Specialisations
How to become a Organisational Risk Manager in South Africa
- Build a foundation in organisational risk, disaster risk management, management or compliance principles through relevant study and practical learning.
- Consider the Further Education and Training Certificate: Generic Management: Disaster Risk Management (SAQA ID 64870, NQF Level 4, 150 credits) as an introductory relevant pathway.
- Consider the Occupational Certificate: Organisational Risk Practitioner (SAQA ID 94222, NQF Level 6, 125 credits) for practitioner-level preparation.
- Consider the Occupational Certificate: Organisational Risk Manager (SAQA ID 97387, NQF Level 8, 265 credits) for preparation at management level.
- Seek practical exposure to organisational risk assessment, risk coordination, compliance activities and enterprise-wide risk processes. Relevant education can support entry into the field, while management roles commonly also involve workplace progression and increasing responsibility.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
Develop an understanding of how risks can affect an organisation's objectives, operations and overall performance. Practise analysing possible and actual risks, communicating findings clearly and coordinating risk-related activities across different parts of an organisation. Confirm current qualification, provider and assessment details with SAQA or an accredited provider before enrolling.
Useful school subjects
- Mathematics
- Mathematical Literacy
- Accounting
- Business Studies
- Economics
- English
Skills that may help
- Risk assessment and analysis
- Organisational and systems thinking
- Compliance awareness
- Communication and advisory skills
- Coordination and planning
- Problem-solving
- Report writing
- Attention to detail