Ethics & Compliance Director, UK&I

Dentsu is an integrated growth and transformation partner to the world’s leading organizations. Founded in 1901 in Tokyo, Japan, and now present in over 145 countries and regions, it has a proven track record of nurturing and developing innovations, combining the talents of its global network of leadership brands to develop impactful and integrated growth solutions for clients. Dentsu delivers end-to-end experience transformation (EX) by integrating its services across Media, CXM and Creative, while its business transformation (BX) mindset pushes the boundaries of transformation and sustainable growth for brands, people and society.

Purpose of the Role

We are seeking an experienced leader to head the Ethics and Compliance programme for our UK and Ireland Cluster. This role is responsible for shaping and delivering a robust compliance strategy that promotes a culture of trust, transparency and integrity across the organisation. Working closely with Executive and Senior Leadership teams, you will help set a strong tone from the top and ensure ethical principles are embedded into everyday business practices. You will define and deliver the cluster compliance strategy and annual plan, oversee the implementation of programme initiatives across the business and ensure policies and procedures remain aligned with legal, regulatory and group requirements. You will also drive engagement through effective training and communications, including at senior executive level, while leading and developing a small team with one direct report.

Key Responsibilities

• Promote compliance initiatives across the business and work with the functions and executive level management to help identify and mitigate/resolve compliance issues as appropriate.
• Lead responses to Speak‑Up reports and conduct impartial investigations according to internal policies and best practice; assess related legal risks and drive remediation in coordination with Cluster leadership.
• Provide compliance and strategic advice to stakeholders at various levels of the organisation (including, where required, executive level boards and committees) on ethics and compliance matters to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements and Group policy.
• Monitor and modify internal policies and procedures to meet legal, government, industry and/or company requirements and standards of best practice, including Speak‑Up, Conflicts of Interest, Gifts and Hospitality and Third‑Party Due Diligence; develop metrics to track effectiveness and report status and outcomes to relevant stakeholders.
• Drive awareness and understanding of company policies and procedures by establishing and operating a comprehensive training and awareness communication programme.
• Oversee due diligence and compliance risk assessments in connection with M&A, affiliates and other corporate/commercial relationships.
• Track and promote the success of the global compliance programme internally using self‑developed and external metrics, surveys, benchmarks questionnaires, management feedback and similar initiatives.

Qualifications + Skills

• Extensive leadership experience in Ethics and Compliance within a global organisation, with strong stakeholder influence and ethical judgement.
• Deep knowledge and understanding of UK and Ireland compliance standards and legislation, including with respect to the prevention of fraud and bribery.
• Proven experience in designing and implementing corporate compliance programmes, leading sensitive investigations and driving cultural change.
• Familiarity with compliance technology, data analytics and M&A compliance.
• Extensive ability and experience of proactively influencing senior stakeholders.
• Proven line management experience.

What we offer

This is a permanent position. The team is based in our London office but operates under flexible working arrangements. As well as a competitive salary, you’ll enjoy a benefits package that you can tailor to your needs.

Inclusion and Diversity

At Dentsu, we embrace diversity and inclusion, valuing the unique perspectives and contributions of every individual. We believe that diversity fuels creativity and innovation, benefiting our employees, partners, and communities. We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, marital status, or any other protected characteristic. Beyond recruitment, we strive to create an environment where everyone feels respected, supported, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. We recognize the importance of work‑life balance and are open to discussing flexible working arrangements for all roles. If you need reasonable adjustments due to a disability or medical condition during our recruitment process, please contact us at accommodations@dentsu.com, quoting the reference number of the role that you are applying for. Your needs will be handled with respect and confidentiality to ensure an inclusive and accessible experience.