Kind Consultancy is working with a large Commercial Finance business which is currently seeking a Head of Compliance & Assurance to join them in a full-time, permanent role with a salary circa £100,000 and a hybrid work model based in their London office.

The Head of Compliance & Assurance will report to the Managing Director as the SMF 16, and be responsible for all aspects of compliance within the organisation including FCA regulation, data protection and risk and with key activities including:

• Being responsible for all aspects of Compliance activity at the organisation, managing, overseeing and supporting the team to plan and deliver assurance activities, provide pragmatic advice at pace, and carry out broader Compliance activities (e.g. horizon scanning, regulatory reporting, training, etc.)
• Proactively advocating for the business’s interests in regulatory matters, engaging with industry bodies, and participating in relevant forums by positioning the firm as a thought leader in compliance, contributing insights and perspectives in regulatory discussions.
• Actively engaging with external regulatory bodies, staying abreast with updates, participating in forums, and providing inputs to regulatory discussions.
• Taking ultimate responsibility for the effective delivery of the Assurance process across the organisation, setting and upholding high compliance standards and overseeing the implementation of the firm’s approach to new branch and subsidiary onboarding and reviews.
• Leading in understanding and addressing staff, branch and subsidiary compliance support needs, steering the delivery of the compliance operation and its future development by continually reviewing and evaluating present and future regulatory challenges, positioning the organisation for proactive response and adaptation.
• Ensuring the delivery of comprehensive compliance support to branches and subsidiaries, striking a balance between proactive and reactive measures and overseeing the maintenance and relevance of a ‘model office’ operational compliance tool.
• Developing and regularly reviewing crisis management plans, ensuring the team is well-prepared to handle compliance-related crises promptly and effectively.
• Driving constant improvements in how the business delivers regulatory compliance, through how the Compliance team operate.
• Developing and monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) for the compliance function, regularly reporting to the Managing Director and relevant stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of regulatory changes, industry trends, and emerging risks that may impact the firm’s operations. Conducting Horizon Scanning to assess the potential impact and recommend necessary actions to ensure compliance for the group.
• Managing the timely and accurate submission of FCA regulatory reports, ensuring compliance with reporting obligations set by the regulators.
• Establishing and enforcing robust governance structures and controls within the Compliance function. This will be delivered through the development and implementation of strategies and the regular review of compliance policies, procedures and controls to ensure their effectiveness and alignment with regulatory developments.
• Leading the development and execution of the annual Compliance Monitoring Plan, incorporating strategic insights and industry best practices.
• Delegating responsibilities effectively, empowering the Compliance team to operate autonomously within established guidelines, whilst providing effective leadership and management of the team through guidance and support as necessary.
• Overseeing and managing compliance-related projects, ensuring they are aligned with strategic objectives and delivered with the highest standards.

Our ideal candidate for the Head of Compliance & Assurance position:

• Has 5+ years of experience in a compliance leadership role, ideally holding SMF16
• Has substantial experience in managing and leading compliance teams
• Has demonstrable experience in FCA regulation and its strategic implementation within business operations
• Has a track record of effectively evaluating and interpreting regulatory requirements (especially Consumer Credit and Mortgage Credit Directive)
• Demonstrates compliance audit and review expertise and has previously implemented compliance frameworks
• Has an in-depth understanding of UK lending and the Commercial Broker industry
• Has strong training and coaching skills
• Possess a comprehensive understanding of UK Financial Services Regulation, ensuring a sound foundation for strategic compliance management.
• Has the consulting skills necessary to provide expert guidance and support in compliance matters.
• Exhibits advanced analytical skills needed to assess complex regulatory landscapes and implement strategic compliance solutions.
• Showcases adept problem-solving skills to address intricate compliance challenges and proactively find effective resolutions.
• Possess exceptional interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills, with the ability to effectively interact with internal teams, subsidiaries, and external stakeholders.
• Showcasing effective management skills by upholding a positive and productive team environment. Able to provide guidance, support, and encouragement to team members, ensuring optimal performance and professional development.

If you’re interested in the Head of Compliance & Assurance opportunity and you have the skills and experience we’re looking for, please apply with an updated CV today.