At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead governance and risk management for a national charity supporting people with learning disabilities.
- Company: Affinity Trust, a dedicated charity with a mission to empower individuals.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Opportunity for personal growth in a standalone, high-responsibility role.
- Why this job: Join a senior leadership team and shape the future of governance in a meaningful way.
- Qualifications: Strong expertise in charity governance and excellent communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 65000 £ per year.
Affinity Trust is a national charity dedicated to supporting people with learning disabilities to live fulfilling lives. We are looking for an exceptional governance professional to join our senior leadership team as our new Head of Governance and Risk. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, this is a high-impact role at the heart of our organisation. You will lead governance and assurance, act as Company Secretary, oversee corporate risk and business continuity, and advise the Board and Executive Team. As a trusted strategic partner, you will help ensure we meet our statutory and regulatory obligations, strengthen decision-making, and uphold our values.
You will be responsible for:
- Leading governance, assurance and Board/Committee support
- Acting as Company Secretary and ensuring statutory compliance
- Managing risk, internal control and organisational resilience
- Overseeing the performance of external legal advisors
- Providing governance oversight of data protection and information compliance
This standalone role requires significant expertise, confidence and integrity. You will bring strong knowledge of charity and company law, excellent Board-level communication skills, and the ability to balance strategic insight with hands-on delivery.
Key Priorities for the First 12 Months
- Strengthen the organisation’s governance framework and Board reporting cycle.
- Lead a structured review of the corporate risk register and associated assurance processes.
- Embed a refreshed business continuity framework, including scenario testing.
- Support a Board effectiveness evaluation and implementation of any recommendations.
- Review the performance and value-for-money of external legal advisors.
- Enhance processes for data protection and ICO compliance oversight in partnership with the SIRO.
What We’re Looking For
- Strong technical expertise in charity governance, risk, and regulatory compliance.
- Confidence advising senior leaders and Trustees.
- Excellent communication, diplomacy, and influencing skills.
- A proactive, values-led approach with the ability to work autonomously.
- The ability to juggle strategic insight with hands-on delivery.
You don’t need to have worked in a large team — this role is well-suited to someone who thrives in a standalone, high-responsibility position.
Please note, all roles are subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, at the relevant level for the position. This check will be paid for by us.
Head of Governance and Risk in Thame employer: Affinity Trust
Affinity Trust is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its employees, offering a supportive hybrid work environment in Thame, Oxfordshire. As a national charity dedicated to empowering individuals with learning disabilities, we foster a culture of collaboration and integrity, providing ample opportunities for personal development and meaningful contributions to our mission. Join us to make a real difference while enjoying a competitive salary and the chance to lead impactful governance initiatives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Governance and Risk in Thame
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the charity sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have a lead or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their values, mission, and recent developments. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a governance professional, you'll need to convey complex information clearly. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or using online platforms to refine your delivery.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Governance and Risk in Thame
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Governance and Risk role. Highlight your governance expertise and any relevant achievements that showcase your ability to lead and advise at a senior level.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about governance and risk in the charity sector. Share specific examples of how you've made an impact in previous roles, especially in areas like compliance and risk management.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role requires excellent communication and influencing skills, make sure your application reflects this. Use clear, concise language and structure your documents well. We want to see that you can communicate effectively with Boards and senior leaders.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team at Affinity Trust!
How to prepare for a job interview at Affinity Trust
✨Know Your Governance Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of charity governance and company law. Be ready to discuss how you've applied this expertise in previous roles, especially in high-responsibility positions. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but can also implement it effectively.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since this role involves advising senior leaders and the Board, practice articulating complex ideas clearly and confidently. Prepare examples of how you've influenced decision-making in the past, as strong communication is key to success in this position.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Insight
Think about how you can balance strategic insight with hands-on delivery. Be prepared to discuss specific scenarios where you've successfully managed risk or improved governance frameworks. This will highlight your ability to think critically while also getting things done.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that test your problem-solving skills, especially around risk management and business continuity. Think of real-life examples where you’ve had to navigate challenges and how you ensured compliance and resilience. This will help you stand out as a proactive candidate.
