What does a risk analyst do?

In the business environment, effective management of the risks that threaten companies has become a necessity to ensure long-term business success and sustainability.

In this scenario, risk analysts have become critical to strategic decision-making and the protection of business interests. Since the risks faced by companies are very diverse in nature, these professionals specialise in different areas ranging from cybersecurity to compliance or finance. In this article, we will explain what the job of a risk analyst in the financial sector entails.

To work in this fast-growing and in-demand sector, it is necessary to have specialised training. Degrees such as the degree in Economics at Universidad Europea are very useful for acquiring this knowledge. On this programme you will acquire knowledge of business and accounting that will help you to make your way in this profession.

What is a risk analyst?

A risk analyst is the expert responsible for detecting, assessing and anticipating potential risks that may affect the operation and stability of a company. The main objective of this profession is to create and execute plans to reduce risks and mitigate their effects should they materialise.

What kind of problems does a risk analyst solve?

In finance, the main risks faced by companies fall into one of two categories:

• Market risks: these risks involve potential changes in interest and currency conversion rates, market conditions, or the value and competitiveness of the company.
• Operational risks: internal weaknesses within the company, such as losses or problems with personnel.
• Liquidity risks: difficulty or inability to meet financial obligations due to cash problems or inability to liquidate assets.
• Credit risks: losses arising from non-payment of debts by the company's creditors.
• Country risks: external conditions that may be affected by international conflicts or changes in the fiscal and foreign trade policies of the countries in which it operates.

Functions of a risk analyst

The work of a risk analyst can make or break a business. Among their most important functions are the following:

• Conducting detailed reviews of the company's financial statements and management reports.
• Identifying potential risks that may affect cash management.
• Preparation of reports and proposals to mitigate such risks.
• Implementation of plans to mitigate risks.
• Study of market changes and economic trends to anticipate risks and suggest solutions.
• Monitoring compliance with agreements and contracts related to corporate financing.
• Monitoring the financial development of the company.

How to become a risk analyst? Training and competencies

Professionals working as financial risk analysts have knowledge of finance, accounting, economics and management. To start in a more junior position, an undergraduate degree in a related area may be sufficient. However, for more senior roles, a specialised master, such as a master in Financial Management, may be required. 

The competencies and skills required for this job include the following:

• Analytical and problem-solving skills.
• High level of accounting and financial knowledge.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to plan and think strategically.
• Advanced command of statistical and mathematical analysis tools.
• Ability to work in a team and participate in multidisciplinary projects.

In conclusion, in the finance area, risk analysts play a crucial role in protecting the company against possible eventualities that may affect its financial capacity. To do so, they rely on specialised knowledge and a set of technical and soft skills that can be developed through training and experience. If you are interested in working in this sector, Universidad Europea offers a wide range of Business and Technology degrees to choose from.