In today’s volatile business environment, the role of the Chief Risk Officer (CRO) has never been more important, or more complex. Once seen largely as the guardian of regulatory compliance and financial risk, the modern CRO is fast becoming a strategic advisor, a crisis manager - and a central voice in boardroom decisions.
As organisations navigate everything from cyber threats and ESG expectations to geopolitical instability and emerging technologies, the CRO is evolving into a cross-functional leader with influence far beyond the risk department.
So, what’s changed—and what does it mean for employers and talent acquisition in 2025?
đ From Compliance to Strategic Leadership
Traditionally, the CRO focused on ensuring compliance with regulations, managing operational risk, and avoiding reputational damage. While these remain core responsibilities, the scope has expanded dramatically.
Today’s CRO is expected to:
- Advise on organisational resilience and crisis response
- Shape risk appetite in alignment with business strategy
- Influence long-term planning and transformation projects
- Understand and assess a wide range of non-financial risks
In short, the CRO is now seen as a value creator—not just a gatekeeper.
đ Broadening the Risk Spectrum
The risk landscape has diversified significantly. In addition to traditional financial and operational risks, CROs must now contend with:
- Cybersecurity and data breaches
- Climate change and ESG-related risks
- Third-party and supply chain risks
- Geopolitical uncertainty and sanctions
- Reputational and social licence risks
This demands a much broader skill set—and often a more diverse background.
đ„ The New CRO Skillset
The modern CRO combines technical risk expertise with high-level leadership and communication skills. Many now come from varied backgrounds - finance, legal, consulting, technology, or even sustainability - reflecting the role’s expanding remit.
In-demand traits include:
- Strategic thinking and boardroom presence
- Strong communication and stakeholder influence
- Deep understanding of digital and cyber risk
- Agility and resilience in the face of uncertainty
- Cross-sector and cross-functional experience
As a result, the talent pool for CRO roles is broadening, with more emphasis on adaptability and strategic mindset than just technical know-how.
đŒ Implications for Recruitment
For hiring managers and executive search teams, identifying the right CRO means going beyond the CV. Cultural fit, leadership style and alignment with business goals are just as important as credentials.
At the same time, organisations must position themselves as forward-thinking and purpose-driven to attract this calibre of leadership talent.
đ Final Thoughts
As enterprise risk moves from the back-office to the boardroom, the role of the CRO is undergoing a fundamental shift. Hiring a modern risk leader means finding someone who can operate across silos, engage at the highest level, and help your organisation thrive in a risk-aware world.
At Leonid, we specialise in sourcing senior risk professionals who not only protect your business, but help drive it forward.
We do not, however, compromise on speed. We pledge to fill all of our roles within one month of instruction, under our Magic Month methodology.
One aspect of our service which our clients who are hiring in this field particularly appreciate is our LeonidLive video shortlisting. We present shortlisted candidates in short video interviews – conducted live by a Leonid consultant, with questions pre-set by our clients. This enables hiring managers to assess many of the key attributes listed above in this article – and also saves significant time in the recruitment process, on average 10 hours per hire.
Looking to hire a transformational Chief Risk Officer? Get in touch with Adam Bond to find out more!