As the digital asset landscape evolves at breakneck speed, regulatory frameworks are catching up — and positioning themselves as critical pillars of trust and stability. In this transformative era, OKX, one of the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchanges, is expanding its footprint across the European Economic Area (EEA) with a strategic focus on compliance, innovation, and long-term sustainability.
With recent regulatory approval under the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework, OKX is now building a robust second-line risk function to oversee operations across Europe. To lead this pivotal initiative, we’re seeking an experienced Head of Risk, EEA, based in Malta, to drive comprehensive risk management strategies that align with both business objectives and evolving regulatory expectations.
👉 Discover how you can lead risk innovation in one of the most dynamic financial sectors today.
Building a Future-Ready Risk Framework
The Head of Risk, EEA will play a central role in shaping OKX’s approach to financial and non-financial risk across Europe. This is not just a compliance role — it's a strategic leadership position that sits at the intersection of regulation, technology, and business growth.
You’ll be responsible for designing and implementing enterprise-wide risk frameworks that meet MiCA requirements and other EU regulatory standards. These frameworks must be agile enough to adapt to rapid market changes while remaining rigorous enough to satisfy supervisory authorities.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading scenario analyses and stress testing to evaluate organizational resilience.
- Establishing clear risk governance structures, including Board-level reporting and risk appetite definitions.
- Overseeing escalation protocols and ensuring timely communication of critical risks.
- Collaborating with Legal, Compliance, Product, Engineering, and Finance teams to embed risk-aware decision-making into daily operations.
This role demands a leader who can balance technical precision with strategic vision — someone who understands that effective risk management isn’t about avoiding risk altogether, but about enabling smart, informed risk-taking.
Strategic Regulatory Engagement
One of the most distinctive aspects of this role is direct engagement with European regulators. As OKX’s primary regional risk representative, you’ll serve as the bridge between internal operations and external oversight bodies.
This includes:
- Participating in audits and supervisory reviews.
- Delivering formal risk reports to regulatory agencies.
- Advising senior leadership on regulatory developments and their operational impact.
Your expertise in MiCA and other EU financial regulations will be crucial in ensuring that OKX remains not only compliant but also proactive in anticipating future regulatory shifts.
👉 Be the trusted advisor shaping OKX’s regulatory journey across Europe.
Leading a High-Performance Risk Team
Based in Malta — a growing hub for fintech and digital asset innovation — you’ll build and lead a dedicated risk team with EEA-wide responsibilities. This team will act as a center of excellence for risk assessment, monitoring, and reporting.
You’ll foster a culture of accountability, continuous learning, and compliance excellence. By investing in your team’s development, you’ll ensure that OKX maintains the highest standards of operational integrity across all its European activities.
Collaboration with global risk counterparts will also be essential. While regional nuances matter, consistency in policies, tools, and methodologies across jurisdictions strengthens the overall resilience of the organization.
Who We’re Looking For
We’re seeking a seasoned professional with:
- 8–10+ years of experience in risk management within regulated financial services, fintech, or digital asset environments.
- Proven track record in building or leading risk functions, preferably in a cross-border or EEA context.
- Deep understanding of both financial risks (market, credit, liquidity) and non-financial risks (operational, legal, reputational).
- Firsthand experience engaging with European regulators and navigating complex regulatory landscapes like MiCA.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to present complex risk data clearly to executives and Board members.
- A degree in Finance, Economics, Risk Management, or a related field; certifications such as FRM, CFA, or CA are highly valued.
- A genuine passion for crypto and fintech innovation within a regulated environment.
This is a role for someone who thrives in fast-paced, high-growth settings — where agility meets discipline, and innovation walks hand-in-hand with compliance.
Why Join OKX?
OKX was founded in 2017 with a bold mission: to reshape the future of finance through blockchain technology. Today, we serve over 20 million users across 180+ regions, offering a comprehensive suite of spot and derivatives trading products, DeFi solutions, and cutting-edge research through OKX Insights.
But beyond our products, what truly sets us apart is our people. We believe that innovation starts with culture — one built on teamwork, adaptability, and doing the right thing. At OKX, we invest heavily in employee growth through learning programs, education subsidies, and career development opportunities.
Our benefits package includes:
- Competitive total compensation
- Comprehensive healthcare coverage for employees and dependents
- Wellness and meal allowances
- Team-building events and company-wide gatherings
- The rare opportunity to help shape an emerging industry
And much more — because we believe in rewarding those who dare to lead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this role fully remote?
A: While the position is based in Malta, OKX supports flexible work arrangements where feasible. However, due to regulatory requirements and the need for local engagement, residency in Malta is expected.
Q: What does "second-line risk function" mean in practice?
A: The second line provides independent oversight of risk-taking activities managed by the first line (business units). This role ensures policies are followed, risks are properly assessed, and controls are effective — acting as a critical check-and-balance within the organization.
Q: How does OKX approach regulatory compliance in Europe?
A: With MiCA approval secured, OKX takes a proactive, transparent approach to regulation. We engage early with authorities, implement robust frameworks, and prioritize customer protection — all while driving innovation in a compliant manner.
Q: Will I work closely with global teams?
A: Yes. While your focus is on the EEA, you’ll collaborate regularly with global risk, compliance, legal, and product teams to ensure alignment across jurisdictions.
Q: Do I need prior crypto experience?
A: While direct experience in digital assets is advantageous, what matters most is your ability to apply strong risk principles in complex, fast-moving environments. A genuine interest in blockchain and decentralized finance is essential.
👉 Take the next step in your career — where risk leadership meets crypto innovation.
Core Keywords
Head of Risk, EEA, MiCA regulation, risk management, cryptocurrency exchange, regulatory compliance, Malta-based role, second-line risk function
By integrating these keywords naturally throughout the content — from job responsibilities to regulatory engagement and team leadership — this article aligns with search intent for professionals seeking senior risk roles in the European crypto space.
Whether you're an established risk executive looking to enter the digital asset world or a fintech veteran ready to scale impact in a regulated environment, this role offers a unique opportunity to lead at the forefront of financial innovation.
Join OKX. Shape the future of finance — responsibly.