Operational Risk & Control Consultant

Job Description:

Providing for loved ones, planning for retirement, and preparing for the future—our policyholders rely on us to be there when it matters most. That’s why we’re transforming how we manage risk across the enterprise. We’re seeking an Operational Risk & Controls Consultant to join our Operational Risk & Resilience (OR&R) team in Newport Beach, CA. Relocation assistance may be provided.

As Operational Risk & Control Consultant you will play a critical role in strengthening Pacific Life’s Operational and IT Risk posture. This is more than a job—it’s a chance to be a strategic partner, a trusted advisor, and a catalyst for change across our Consumer Markets Division. You’ll support 1st Line of Defense (LoD) business owners in identifying, assessing, and consult on mitigating risks that could impact our ability to achieve strategic objectives. This role reports to the AVP, OR&R Service Lead supporting our Consumer Markets Division.

How you’ll help us move forward

• Lead and Influence: Drive key risk initiatives with the 1Line around activities like issue management, operational events, RCSAs for critical business processes and second-line reviews that directly impact our operational resilience.
• Collaborate Across Teams: Partner with stakeholders in business and IT to evolve our Operational Risk & Resilience Framework.
• Be a Trusted Expert: Provide guidance on a wide range of risk domains—operational, IT, cyber, third-party, data governance, and more.
• Stay Ahead of the Curve: Monitor emerging risks and regulatory trends, translating them into actionable strategies.
• Create Transparency to Drive Accountability: Deliver clear, compelling risk insights and metrics to senior leaders and governance committees.
• Champion Risk Culture: Foster a mindset of continuous improvement and proactive risk awareness across the organization.
• Support Strategic Initiatives: Play a key role in transformation efforts, crisis planning, business continuity, and vendor resilience.

What experience you bring

• A bachelor’s degree and 7–10 years of experience in risk management, with a strong background in Operational and IT risk.
• Proven success in a 2nd Line of Defense role, with the ability to influence and guide business partners.
• Deep knowledge of risk frameworks, tools, and methodologies like COBIT 2019, ORX and others.
• Proficiency with risk management tools such as RSA Archer or similar risk management tools, MS Visio, and Excel.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence and build consensus across technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills to turn complex risk data into business-aligned decisions.

What makes you stand out

• Industry certifications like CISSP, CRISC, CISA, or SANS credentials are preferred but not required.
• Background in insurance or financial services, especially in shared services or enterprise functions.
• A track record of driving cross-functional collaboration and embedding risk culture.
• Experience delivering projects in a regulatory risk, auditable, compliance and control environment.

You can be who you are.

People come first here. We’re committed to an inclusive workforce. Learn more about how we create a welcoming work environment at www.pacificlife.com. What’s life like at Pacific Life? Visit Instagram.com/lifeatpacificlife.

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Base Pay Range:

The base pay range noted represents the company’s good faith minimum and maximum range for this role at the time of posting. The actual compensation offered to a candidate will be dependent upon several factors, including but not limited to experience, qualifications and geographic location. Also, most employees are eligible for additional incentive pay.

Your Benefits Start Day 1  
 

Your wellbeing is important to Pacific Life, and we’re committed to providing you with flexible benefits that you can tailor to meet your needs. Whether you are focusing on your physical, financial, emotional, or social wellbeing, we’ve got you covered.

• Prioritization of your health and well-being including Medical, Dental, Vision, and Wellbeing Reimbursement Account that can be used on yourself or your eligible dependents

• Generous paid time off options including: Paid Time Off, Holiday Schedules, and Financial Planning Time Off

• Paid Parental Leave as well as an Adoption Assistance Program

• Competitive 401k savings plan with company match and an additional contribution regardless of participation

EEO Statement:

Pacific Life Insurance Company is an Equal Opportunity /Affirmative Action Employer, M/F/D/V. If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request an accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our career center as a result of your disability. To request an accommodation, contact a Human Resources Representative at Pacific Life Insurance Company.