StartRisk

Designing a Risk Management Framework

Our goal is to develop a robust, ISO 31000-aligned Risk Management Framework that integrates seamlessly into your organisation's culture and strategic objectives. This service is intended for organisation that have no formal risk management processes in place.

Key objectives:

• Define your Enterprise Risk Management Framework ensuring alignment with ISO 31000 principles for comprehensive and standardised risk management.
• Define your organisation's risk appetite, clarifying acceptable risk levels for decision-making and escalation.

Approach

The high-level process we will follow to develop and implement your Risk Management Framework, includes:

1. Project Kick-Off & Context Setting

   Conduct interviews/workshops with executives, board representatives, and key business stakeholders.

2. Framework Design

   Develop a structured Enterprise Risk Management Framework (ERMF) outlining risk governance, roles, and processes in line with ISO 31000.

   Craft a clear statement defining acceptable risk thresholds for identified risk classes, shaped by strategic objectives.

   Integrate the new framework with existing policies or recommend updates where needed (e.g. Corporate Governance Policy)

3. Stakeholder Engagement & Validation

   Refine framework elements, gather feedback, and ensure buy-in from all levels via workshops.

   Present drafts, incorporate feedback, and gain formal endorsement from Executive and Board as appropriate.

Deliverables

Below are the key outputs you can expect as a result of our engagement:

• Enterprise Risk Management Framework (ERMF) Document: A comprehensive, ISO 31000 aligned framework detailing risk governance, roles, responsibilities, and processes.
• Risk Appetite Statement (RAS): A formal document outlining acceptable levels of risk aligned with strategic objectives, to guide decision-making at all levels.

Overview

Organisations that have an established Risk Management Framework (ERMF) often need support integrating it into everyday practices, decision-making processes, and organisational culture. We’ll work closely with stakeholders at all levels to ensure risk management is effectively embedded, consistently applied, and continuously improved.

Key objectives:

• Operationalise risk management activities and responsibilities across teams.
• Foster a culture of proactive risk identification, assessment, and reporting.
• Align existing policies and procedures with the defined framework.

Approach

Below is our high-level process for effectively embedding the Risk Management Framework:

1. Orientation & Stakeholder Alignment

   Work with key stakeholders to develop and agree a roll out plan / schedule for risk management across the organisation.

2. Communication & Training

   Messaging & Resources: Develop targeted communications to introduce the framework to staff, highlighting its value and relevance to daily operations.

   Training Sessions & E-learning: Conduct training focused on risk identification, assessment, and escalation procedures—ensuring consistent understanding and adoption.

3. Tools & Process Integration

   3 (a). Using StartRisk

   • System Configuration: Configure StartRisk to align with the ERMF and Risk Appetite Statement (RAS) and add users.
   • Data Import: Import your existing risk register into StartRisk—if required.
   • Workshops & Training: Facilitate workshops to review existing risks, identify new risks and controls, and train staff on using StartRisk.

   3 (b). Not Using StartRisk

   • Risk Register Template: Prepare or refine a standard risk register template.
   • Stakeholder Collaboration: Work with key stakeholders to review existing risks and/or identify and record new risks and controls within the register.

4. Monitoring & Reporting

   Reporting Templates: Establish a risk reporting template and populate it with initial data (or use standardised reporting if leveraging StartRisk).

   Reporting Cadence: Define standard frequencies (e.g. monthly, quarterly) and formats for different organisational levels. Incorporate these into standing meeting agendas.

   Progress Updates: Provide implementation progress reports, if required.

5. Ongoing Support & Continuous Improvement

   Monthly Check-ins: Perform a monthly touch-base for three months to monitor the embedding of the Risk Management Framework.

   Post-Implementation Report: Deliver a summary report for Executive and Board detailing progress, challenges, and recommendations for further enhancement.

Deliverables

Below are the key outputs you can expect as a result of this embedding phase:

• Embedding Action Plan
  • A detailed plan and schedule outlining the scope, timelines, and responsibilities for the embedding project.
• Training & Communication Resources
  • Customised Materials (e.g. intranet posts, emails) ensuring staff understand their roles and responsibilities.
  • Access to StartRisk Knowledge Base (if using the StartRisk app).
• Monitoring & Reporting Framework
  • Defined Reporting Templates, including an initial draft report populated with risk data.
  • Clear guidelines on reporting frequency, distribution, and escalation paths.

Overview

Many organisations already have some form of Enterprise Risk Management Framework (ERMF) in place, but over time, these frameworks can become outdated or misaligned with current ISO 31000 standards and evolving industry better practices. Our review process aims to identify gaps, enhance existing documentation, and help you move toward a more mature and effective risk culture.

Key Objectives:

• Conduct a structured review of existing risk management policies, procedures, and supporting documents.
• Benchmark your current framework against ISO 31000 and recognised better practices.
• Highlight areas where processes can be improved or matured to align with strategic objectives.
• Provide practical recommendations, including proposed revisions to current documents and processes.

Approach

Below is our high-level approach for reviewing and maturing your Enterprise Risk Management Framework.

1. Document Collection & Initial Analysis

   • Gather Existing Documentation: Collect all key materials, including your current ERMF document(s), policies, procedures, risk registers, governance charters, and any relevant risk reporting templates.
   • Preliminary Alignment Check: Perform a high-level comparison of the collected materials against ISO 31000 principles and common better practices.

2. Gap Analysis & Stakeholder Engagement

   • In-depth Review: Assess the alignment of your ERMF with ISO 31000 guidelines, focusing on elements such as governance structures, roles and responsibilities, risk appetite statements, and reporting mechanisms.
   • Stakeholder Consultations: Interview or survey key stakeholders—including risk owners, business unit leaders, and relevant executives—to understand how the framework is used day-to-day and identify any pain points.
   • Risk System Evaluation: Examine the existing tooling or processes used to capture, analyse, and report risks; assess overall effectiveness, user experience, and potential gaps.

3. Maturity Assessment

   • Current State Assessment: Evaluate your ERMF’s level of maturity in areas like risk culture, identification, assessment, reporting, and continuous improvement.

4. Recommendations & Proposed Revisions

   • Framework Enhancement: Identify specific changes needed—such as refining governance processes, strengthening risk appetite statements, or improving templates—to better align with ISO 31000.
   • Process Improvements: Highlight opportunities for streamlining risk processes, enhancing cross-functional coordination, and embedding risk awareness across the organisation.

5. Deliverables & Roadmap

   • Revised/Updated ERMF Draft: Provide a refined Enterprise Risk Management Framework document incorporating recommended updates, structural enhancements, and better-practice elements.
   • Action Plan: Develop a prioritised roadmap for implementing the recommended changes. This roadmap will outline timelines, responsible parties, and key milestones.
   • Executive Summary & Presentation: Present a concise summary of findings and recommendations to leadership teams or the Board, ensuring alignment and buy-in for next steps.

Deliverables

Here’s what you can expect upon completion of this review phase:

1. Comprehensive Gap Analysis Report
   • Detailed breakdown of gaps identified against ISO 31000 and industry best practices.
   • Assessment of current risk maturity levels and areas for immediate and long-term improvement.
2. Revised/Updated ERMF Document
   • A tailored ERMF draft that addresses identified gaps, integrates stakeholder feedback, and aligns with ISO 31000 principles.
3. Actionable Implementation Roadmap
   • Step-by-step plan prioritising recommended changes, with clear timelines, responsibilities, and success metrics.
4. Stakeholder Communication & Training Materials (Optional)
   • Summaries, presentations, or training guides to help communicate the revised framework and new processes to your teams.

Overview

As risk landscapes evolve, leveraging AI-driven solutions can be a game-changer for organisations looking to bolster their risk management processes. Whether you already have an Enterprise Risk Management Framework (ERMF) in place or need to implement one, our goal is to ensure a seamless integration into StartRisk.

Key Objectives:

• Align or develop your organisation’s Risk Management Framework to optimise StartRisk configuration.
• Configure StartRisk to capture, monitor, and analyse risk data effectively, offering AI-driven insights.
• Provide comprehensive support—from user setup and training to ongoing optimisation.

Approach

Here’s a high-level outline of how we’ll introduce StartRisk and ensure it complements your existing or newly created framework.

1. Project Kick-Off & Needs Assessment

   • Current Framework Review (if applicable): Evaluate existing documentation, risk appetite statements, and governance structures to guide StartRisk setup.
   • Requirements Scoping: Identify organisational priorities, data needs, and any integrations or reporting requirements.

2. Framework Alignment & Design

   • Framework Refinement: Update or refine your ERMF so it’s structurally aligned with StartRisk features including terminology, risk appetite thresholds, etc.

3. StartRisk Configuration

   • System Setup: Establish StartRisk instance and incorporate key business information to inform AI tooling.
   • Data Migration: Import existing risk registers.

4. User Setup & Training

   • Role-Based Access: Create user profiles and assign risks and/or controls based on existing risk registers.
   • Training Sessions: Conduct targeted training sessions—both online and in-person—covering risk identification, assessment, reporting, and AI insights within StartRisk.

5. Ongoing Support & Optimisation

   • Monitoring & Fine-Tuning: Post-implementation support to refine system configurations, address feedback, and ensure smooth day-to-day operations.

Deliverables

You can expect the following key outputs by the end of this engagement:

1. StartRisk Configuration Plan & Implementation
   • A tailored plan for setting up user access, permissions, and reporting structures, plus the completed system configuration.
2. Training & Knowledge Transfer Materials
   • Training sessions, workshop recordings (if applicable), and access to the StartRisk knowledge base ensuring your team can comfortably navigate and leverage StartRisk.
4. Post-Implementation Support & Optimisation Roadmap
   • A structured plan outlining ongoing support services and recommendations for further refinement or enhancements.

Overview

If your organisation has specific needs for governance or risk services, you can reach out to us for a tailored solution. Whether you’re dealing with regulatory compliance, corporate governance issues, or planning for an internal or external audit, we can provide support that’s specifically designed to address your unique challenges.

We can help by working alongside you to understand your current structures, practices, and goals, and by designing a custom approach that tackles your biggest concerns head-on.

If you’d like to discuss your particular requirements, reach out and let us know what’s on your mind. We’ll listen carefully, ask questions, and propose a tailored scope that makes sense for your organisation. Whether it’s a one-off advisory engagement or a broader transformation, our focus is on delivering practical, value-adding solutions that strengthen governance and keep risks well-managed.

Overview

Our Technology Advisory Services are designed to assist organisations in leveraging digital tools and methodologies to improve operational efficiency, drive innovation, and maintain a competitive edge. Whether you require guidance on AI adoption, strategic software planning, or technology roadmapping, we offer tailor-made services to meet your unique needs.

Key Objectives:

• Assess and optimise your current technology landscape to align with business objectives.
• Provide expert advice on adopting and integrating cutting-edge tools, including AI-driven solutions.
• Develop strategic roadmaps for software, hardware, and systems that promote long-term growth.
• Support ongoing digital transformation initiatives, ensuring sustainable and scalable improvements.

Approach

Below is an outline of how we typically engage when providing our broader technology advisory services:

1. Initial Consultation & Needs Analysis

   We begin by understanding your existing technology landscape, business goals, and any immediate pain points. This phase may include stakeholder interviews and system reviews to form a clear picture of your current environment.

2. Technology Strategy & Roadmapping

   Based on insights gathered, we help you formulate a technology strategy that aligns with overarching business objectives. This includes identifying potential areas for AI integration, software enhancements, or broader systems upgrades, along with recommended timelines.

3. Solution Selection & Integration

   Once a strategic direction is agreed upon, we guide you through selecting and implementing the right technologies—whether that means off-the-shelf software, custom developments, or a hybrid approach. Our focus is on creating cohesive solutions that complement existing workflows.

4. AI & Advanced Analytics

   Where relevant, we offer targeted guidance on implementing AI-driven capabilities, data analytics, and machine learning models. This may involve data preparation, tool selection, and integration strategies to ensure measurable benefits.

5. Ongoing Support & Continuous Improvement

   Post-deployment, we remain available to help refine your technology environment, address new requirements, and keep systems aligned with emerging best practices. This ensures your organisation can adapt smoothly to evolving technological demands.

Deliverables

Upon completion of our advisory engagement, your organisation will benefit from:

• A comprehensive evaluation of your current technology framework and actionable recommendations.
• A tailored roadmap detailing specific initiatives, timelines, and responsible parties.
• Guidance on AI adoption and advanced analytics to enhance strategic decision-making and efficiency.
• Support with solution selection, integration, and change management to ensure successful deployment.
• Ongoing advisory services to evolve and refine your technology landscape over time.

Picture a future where your team's potential isn't shackled by uncertainty, but propelled forward by the power of intelligent risk-taking. That's where StartRisk steps in. We don't just protect your bottom line; we ignite unstoppable growth by transforming risk into rocket fuel for progress.

How do we make this happen? We fuse top-tier advisory know-how with cutting-edge AI insights—so you’re not just checking boxes on compliance. You're building a thriving, energetic culture that spots hidden opportunities and turns obstacles into springboards. With StartRisk, you gain a partner who helps you design, embed, and sustain a risk framework that keeps you ahead of the curve—so you can focus on what truly matters: fueling your vision, strengthening your team, and taking your organisation to the next level.

Imagine empowering your people with the tools to move confidently through unknown territory. Visualize freeing up their energy to pursue what lights them up, because you've minimised distractions and worries. That sense of certainty—of pure possibility—delivers tangible results you can see, measure, and celebrate.

Stop letting fear hijack your potential. Step forward and own your future with a bold strategy that aligns action with aspiration. Let StartRisk be your catalyst for sustainable growth, protected profit, and unstoppable momentum. Because when you partner with us, you're not just managing risk—you’re unleashing the power of progress itself.