At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic and operational delivery in a complex regulatory environment.
- Company: Major public body with a focus on compliance and transparency.
- Benefits: Competitive rate, flexible working, and opportunity for impactful leadership.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for continuous improvement and team development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in governance and stakeholder confidence.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in regulated environments and strong decision-making skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
Location: Edinburgh, Cardiff or Belfast – 2 days per week onsite
Contract: Initial 6 months
Engagement: Inside IR35
Start: June 2026
We are supporting a major public body seeking an experienced Interim Head of Compliance and Transparency to lead a high‑profile operational function within a complex regulatory environment. This is an excellent opportunity for candidates from senior military, defence, government or wider public sector leadership backgrounds who are used to operating in environments where sound judgement, integrity, governance and stakeholder confidence are critical.
You will lead a specialist team responsible for delivering regulatory and operational priorities in a fast‑paced, politically sensitive setting. The role requires strategic oversight, operational leadership and confident decision‑making where accuracy, transparency and risk management are essential.
The role:
- Leading the strategic and operational delivery of registration, compliance and transparency activity
- Overseeing the receipt, management and publication of regulated financial information and statutory returns
- Making evidence‑based, risk‑informed decisions in a complex and high‑profile environment
- Ensuring quality management systems, data governance and information handling processes are robust, effective and aligned to organisational priorities
- Working closely with senior leadership colleagues to shape wider operational and regulatory strategy
- Building and managing relationships with a broad range of senior external stakeholders across regulated organisations, government bodies and partner organisations
- Representing the organisation externally at senior level
- Leading, developing and motivating a high‑performing specialist team, setting clear objectives and driving strong delivery outcomes
What we are looking for:
- Proven experience operating at senior leadership level within a regulated, governance‑led or high‑accountability environment
- Strong background in risk‑based decision‑making, assurance, compliance, operational governance or regulatory oversight
- Experience managing complex stakeholder relationships in politically sensitive or high‑profile settings
- Demonstrable ability to lead teams through delivery, change and continuous improvement
- Strong judgement, resilience and the ability to make balanced decisions using evidence and risk analysis
- Excellent communication skills, including the ability to engage credibly with senior internal and external stakeholders
Why this could suit ex‑military candidates:
This role will appeal to individuals who have led teams in environments where governance, accountability, judgement under pressure, integrity and stakeholder confidence were central to successful delivery. Candidates with experience translating strategic intent into operational execution, while managing risk and maintaining standards, are likely to be well aligned.
To apply, please send your CV to Liz Walsh at liz@ex-mil.co.uk
Head of Business Operations vacancy in Edinburgh, Cardiff or Belfast – 2 days per week onsite ([...] employer: Ex-Mill Recruitment Ltd
Join a leading public body in Edinburgh, Cardiff, or Belfast, where you will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to operational excellence and regulatory compliance. With a strong emphasis on integrity and stakeholder engagement, this role offers a collaborative work culture that values your expertise and fosters professional growth. Enjoy the flexibility of remote working combined with the opportunity to make a significant impact in a politically sensitive environment, all while being supported by a high-performing team.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Business Operations vacancy in Edinburgh, Cardiff or Belfast – 2 days per week onsite ([...]
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in your industry! Attend events, join online forums, or even reach out to folks on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Ace the Interview
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and practising common questions. We recommend using the STAR method to structure your answers – it helps you showcase your experience effectively!
✨Follow Up
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✨Apply Through Our Website
When you find a role that excites you, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Business Operations vacancy in Edinburgh, Cardiff or Belfast – 2 days per week onsite ([...]
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Head of Business Operations. Highlight your experience in governance, compliance, and stakeholder management, as these are key for us. Use specific examples that showcase your leadership skills in similar environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention your strategic oversight experience and how you've successfully led teams through change. Keep it engaging and relevant to the job description.
Showcase Your Decision-Making Skills:In your application, emphasise your ability to make evidence-based, risk-informed decisions. We want to see how you've navigated complex situations in the past, so don’t hold back on those examples that demonstrate your judgement and resilience.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ex-Mill Recruitment Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the role of Head of Business Operations. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities, especially around compliance and transparency. Brush up on your knowledge of regulatory environments and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with these requirements.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, particularly in high-pressure or politically sensitive situations. Think about times when you've successfully led a team through change or delivered on complex projects, and be ready to share these stories during the interview.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since this role involves managing relationships with senior stakeholders, come prepared with insights on how you’ve effectively engaged with various parties in the past. Be ready to discuss your approach to building trust and ensuring clear communication, as this will be crucial for success in the position.
✨Demonstrate Decision-Making Skills
Be prepared to talk about your decision-making process, especially in risk-based scenarios. Share specific examples where you made evidence-based decisions and how those choices impacted your organisation positively. This will show your ability to navigate complex situations with confidence.
