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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead governance and operations, driving improvements and managing performance.
- Company: Join an independent regulatory body for Patent and Trade Mark Attorneys.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 25 days holiday, hybrid working, and health perks.
- Why this job: Shape organisational excellence and make a real impact in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in governance, compliance, and strategic planning is essential.
- Other info: Part-time options available; apply by 5th September 2025.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 £ per year.
Job Description
Head of Governance and Operations
Are you passionate about driving organisational excellence through smart governance, digital innovation, and strategic planning?
Do you thrive in a hands-on leadership role where you can shape systems, influence culture, and deliver measurable impact?
Are you confident managing risk, performance, and compliance in a fast-evolving regulatory or professional environment?
If so, this might be the perfect role for you!
The organisation
Our client is the independent regulatory body of Patent Attorneys and Trade Mark Attorneys.
The organisation oversees the qualification and ongoing professional standards of Patent Attorneys and Trade Mark Attorneys, including education and training, maintaining the registers of attorneys, firm registration and licensing, continuous professional development, professional conduct, and disciplinary processes.
We are proud to partner with our client to identify talent for their Head of Governance and Operations post.
The role
This is a newly created, strategic and hands-on role within a small but high performing organisation that has grown significantly in professionalism, governance, and operational effectiveness. The postholder will play a pivotal part in shaping how the organisation uses data, technology, and performance insights to drive improvement and support its regulatory and educational objectives. Drawing together elements of policy, operations, and governance, the postholder will work closely with senior leaders and the Board to enhance reporting, streamline processes, and ensure that strategic goals are underpinned by robust evidence and meaningful KPIs.
The successful candidate will be comfortable working across a broad portfolio, from interrogating CRM data and identifying trends, to drafting reports and advising on performance. They will be expected to bring a data-informed, evidence-based approach to decision-making, with the confidence to challenge constructively and communicate complex insights clearly.
This is a role that requires a strong understanding of how data and digital tools can support policy and operational outcomes. The ideal candidate will have experience working in a regulatory or policy environment, with a track record of improving organisational effectiveness through insight, collaboration, and innovation. They will be adept at horizon scanning, identifying gaps in data, and working with internal and external stakeholders to fill them. The postholder will report directly to the Chief Executive and work closely with other Team members and the Board, offering a unique opportunity to add value across the organisation.
Key facts:
•            Contract: Full time, permanent (part time considered, but no less than 4 days per week)
•            Location: Our client's offices at 20 Little Britain, London EC1A 7DH. Hybrid working is currently offered but is not contractual. Team members must attend the office a minimum of 50% of their contracted hours.
•            Salary: £70,000 p.a.* + benefits (including 25 days paid holiday a year + 8 bank holidays*; Christmas closure from the end of the last working day before Christmas until the first working day of the New Year; Life Insurance; Company Sick Pay and Health Cash Plan) *pro-rated if part time
Key areas of responsibility
Governance & Organisational Effectiveness
- Drive improvements in governance frameworks and performance monitoring.
- Lead responses to external performance assessments.
- Oversee administrative support, including line management of one admin assistant.
- Coordinate Board and Working Group meetings, including agenda setting and minute preparation (in liaison with external provider).
- Maintain and communicate corporate policies and procedures.
Digital Strategy & Innovation
- Develop and implement a proportionate digital strategy, including AI integration.
- Identify opportunities for automation and improved user experience.
- Ensure compliance with data protection and cyber security standards.
- Manage business continuity and disaster recovery planning.
- Support CRM reporting and system updates.
Risk & Compliance
- Lead risk management activities and maintain the corporate risk register.
- Advise senior leadership on emerging risks and mitigation strategies.
Planning & Performance
- Collaborate on strategic and operational planning processes.
- Monitor progress against business objectives and KPIs.
- Produce performance reports for the Board and oversight bodies.
Procurement & Operational Support
- Ensure procurement practices are transparent and deliver value for money.
- Support general operational functions including registration processes and public enquiries.
- Liaise with external IT and HR service providers as needed.
The ideal candidate will meet the following requirements:
- Proven track record in senior operational or corporate services roles.
- Strong background in governance, compliance, and performance management.
- Experience in strategic planning and reporting to external bodies.
- Knowledge of data protection and digital working practices (including the use of AI).
- Ability to work successfully across a broad portfolio.
- Adept at developing insights and working collaboratively to deliver improvement
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with experience preparing reports for senior stakeholders or oversight bodies in an organisation subject to intense external scrutiny.
Desirable experience
- Senior-level experience in legal, regulatory, or oversight organisations.
- Familiarity with environments subject to external scrutiny.
- Experience implementing AI or digital automation tools.
- Understanding of cyber security and IT risk in small organisations.
Interested?
Apply with your CV and covering letter by 5:00 pm on 5th September 2025.
Notes for applicants:
Shortlisted candidates will be informed by COB on Thursday 18th September 2025.
Interviews will be conducted on Wednesday 24th September, in person, at the client's offices in London (20 Little Britain, EC1A 7DH).
For a confidential conversation before applying, with FJWilson Talent, please contact us on 0203 195 3600, or email us at resourcingteam@fjwilson.com
Our privacy policy is available on our website: https://www.fjwilson.com/privacy/
FJWilson Talent Services is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.
FJWilson Talent Services encourages applications from all suitably qualified and eligible candidates who represent the full diversity of communities in the UK. Reasonable adjustments are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process
Head of Governance and Operations employer: F.J. WILSON
Contact Detail:
F.J. WILSON Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Governance and Operations
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the regulatory landscape relevant to Patent and Trade Mark Attorneys. Understanding the specific challenges and opportunities in this field will help you demonstrate your expertise during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in governance and operations, especially those within regulatory bodies. Engaging with industry peers can provide insights into best practices and may even lead to valuable connections that could support your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss how you've successfully implemented digital strategies or AI tools in previous roles. Highlighting your experience in these areas will show that you can drive innovation and improve operational effectiveness.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to articulate your approach to risk management and compliance. Providing examples of how you've navigated complex regulatory environments will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Governance and Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in governance, compliance, and performance management. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to drive organisational effectiveness and strategic planning.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for the role and the organisation. Discuss how your background aligns with their needs, particularly in areas like digital innovation and risk management. Be sure to mention any experience with AI or digital tools.
Highlight Key Achievements: When detailing your previous roles, focus on measurable outcomes. For instance, mention how you improved governance frameworks or enhanced performance monitoring. Quantifying your achievements can make a strong impact.
Prepare for Interviews: If shortlisted, be ready to discuss your insights on data-driven decision-making and your approach to managing risks. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with senior leaders and external stakeholders in past roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at F.J. WILSON
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the mission and objectives of the regulatory body. Familiarise yourself with their governance frameworks and how they impact the profession. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Data Skills
Given the emphasis on data-informed decision-making in this role, be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've used data analytics to drive improvements in governance or operations. Highlight any experience with CRM systems or performance monitoring tools.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle real-world challenges related to risk management and compliance. Prepare scenarios where you've successfully navigated complex regulatory environments or improved operational effectiveness, and be ready to discuss the outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Collaboration
This role requires working closely with senior leaders and the Board. Be ready to share examples of how you've led teams or collaborated across departments to achieve strategic objectives. Emphasise your communication skills and ability to influence stakeholders.
