Head of Quality & Compliance

1st for Awarding is seeking a Head of Quality & Compliance to lead its quality and compliance department. The role sits on the Senior Management Team, feeding into long‑term strategy and working collaboratively with other departments. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading compliance activities, maintaining high standards of quality assurance, and ensuring adherence to industry regulations. They will make recommendations to improve quality practices and mitigate potential risks and adverse effects. As an Ofqual regulated awarding organisation (AO), the General Conditions of Recognition must be upheld. The position is home based although occasional travel will be needed.

Duties

• Lead the development and implementation of end‑point assessment strategies in accordance with industry standards and regulatory requirements (Ofqual, Skills England).
• Oversee the delivery of assessments, ensuring they meet quality assurance criteria and organisational policies.
• Develop and maintain documentation related to assessment procedures, quality assurance protocols, and compliance records.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure assessments are conducted fairly, accurately, and consistently.
• Monitor ongoing compliance with relevant legislation, standards, and best practices related to assessments.
• Provide training and guidance to assessors and staff on quality assurance processes and regulatory requirements.
• Line manage the quality & compliance department.
• Oversee the monitoring and management of Centres.
• Monitor, analyse and interpret data to share insights and identify areas of risk and best practice.
• Ensure standardisation throughout all business functions.
• Identify areas for improvement, efficiency and cost savings and implement change.
• Manage investigations into appeals, complaints and malpractice.
• Safeguarding: be first point of contact for safeguarding concerns and queries.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in the apprenticeships sector, preferably from an AO or EPAO.
• Experience at a senior level in a quality assurance role.
• Experience within a regulated environment.
• Experience managing people.
• Demonstrable knowledge of industry standards related to assessments, compliance, and quality management systems.
• Exceptional organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the capacity to train and influence others.
• Safeguarding and Prevent qualifications are desirable.
• Ability to work independently whilst collaborating effectively within a team environment.

It’d Be Great If You Also Have

• Experience in our standards.
• A data‑driven approach.
• Confidence using tools like SharePoint, Teams, PowerBI.

What Success Looks Like

• Your drive to high‑quality outcomes and continuous improvement.
• You’re a trusted go‑to person within your team and beyond.
• You contribute ideas and take initiative to improve systems or approaches.
• You contribute to team and organisational goals in a meaningful way.

Our Values

At 1st for Awarding, our values guide how we hire, support, and grow together. They show up in how we treat each other, how we work with partners, and how we make decisions:

• We are quality‑focused and we act with integrity. Integrity means doing the right thing and doing things the right way. This shows up in how we approach conversations, decisions, and day‑to‑day actions – with honesty, tact, and professionalism. We choose the right path, even when it’s not the easy one.
• We are supportive – we make a difference to real people. Whether it’s colleagues, providers, apprentices, clients or wider stakeholders – we show respect, listen, collaborate, and act with the aim of helping others progress.
• We are adaptable and we embrace change. We adapt with purpose. Our world is fast‑paced and apprentices are real people – every situation is different.
• We are passionate – we love what we do. We’re proud of what we build and who we build it for.
• We take ownership – we know our impact matters. We all play a part in the success of 1st for Awarding.

Why Join Us?

At 1st for Awarding, we’re a growing, purpose‑driven team that genuinely cares—about our work, our people, and the impact we make. We offer flexibility, trust, and a supportive environment where your voice matters and your ideas are heard.

Here’s What Else You’ll Get

• Salary: £45‑64k.
• Remote‑first role with built‑in flexibility.
• Monthly co‑working days (lunch included!).
• 25 days’ holiday + 8 bank holidays.
• 8 Wellbeing Hours per year – your time to reset, reflect, or engage in activities that support your wellbeing or personal growth.
• Flexible working, agreed up front to suit you and the business.
• All the tech you need: laptop, monitor, accessories.
• A company with purpose, not just process.

To Apply

Please send your CV and a cover letter tailored to this specific role at 1st for Awarding. We’re only reviewing applications that include a personalised cover letter.