Regulatory Relationships Manager

At AQA, we’re committed to advancing education and we’re committed to our people. As the largest provider of academic qualifications in the UK, we mark over 10 million exam papers each year and it’s our people who make this happen.

Introduction

You’ll be stepping into a role with real influence at the heart of AQA’s work. As Regulatory Relationships Manager, you’ll help shape how we engage with our regulators, protect public confidence in our qualifications and safeguard the experience of learners across the UK. This is more than a relationship management role. You’ll lead a specialist team and work closely with regulators and senior colleagues to navigate risk, change and opportunity. If you’re a confident people leader who enjoys complex stakeholder environments and wants to make a meaningful, purpose-led impact, this is a role where you can really make your mark.

Purpose of the role

In this role, you’ll lead AQA’s Regulatory Relationships Team, ensuring effective, timely and well-managed engagement with our regulators, primarily Ofqual. You’ll be responsible for overseeing regulatory processes, managing complex regulatory activity and making sure statutory and assurance requirements are met. You’ll also support colleagues across AQA by providing clear, practical guidance on regulatory rules and standards, helping teams interpret requirements and embed compliance into everyday decision-making. Through this work, you’ll help the organisation operate confidently within the regulatory framework and support them to deliver high-quality qualifications for learners.

Key responsibilities

• Leading and developing a small team of compliance experts to manage day-to-day regulatory relationships, deadlines and casework.
• Overseeing and coordinating regulatory engagement, including event notifications, correspondence, data returns and statutory reporting.
• Supporting AQA teams with clear, practical advice on regulatory rules, compliance and assurance.

What we are looking for

You’ll thrive in this role if you:

• Are a strong and experienced people manager who knows how to build and sustain high-performing teams.
• Bring excellent stakeholder and relationship management skills, with the confidence to influence at all levels.
• Have experience working with regulatory, compliance, assurance or external standards frameworks, or closely related environments.
• Bring strong analytical and prioritisation skills, able to assess risk and confidently manage competing demands.

What’s in it for you

• The opportunity to shape how AQA works with its regulators and shapes future qualifications.
• Exposure to organisation-wide projects, including compliance assurance and qualification reform.
• A 35‐hour working week with flexible, hybrid working.
• 25 days’ annual leave (rising to 30), plus Christmas closure days.
• Excellent pension (up to 11.5% employer contribution).
• Private medical insurance, life assurance and wellbeing benefits.

Diversity and Inclusion statement

“At AQA, we are committed to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity and promotes equity and inclusion. We believe that a diverse team brings richer perspectives and drives better outcomes. Our ED&I strategy ensures that everyone—regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, or background—is valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. We actively promote inclusive language, avoid stereotypes, and strive for representation across all dimensions of diversity. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences.”

Application process

To apply, please submit your CV and a short supporting statement explaining why you’re interested in the role. Application deadline: Sunday 7th May. Interview process: Two-stage process including a virtual first interview and an in-person final stage.

Recruitment Agencies

We have a preferred supplier list (PSL) in place. Unsolicited CVs will be treated as a gift. We will not be subject to or liable under your terms and conditions for agency fees.