At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead compliance initiatives and shape regulatory strategy in a fast-growing fintech.
- Company: Ambitious FCA-regulated B2B payments fintech with a hands-on culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work model, and direct access to senior leadership.
- Other info: Opportunity to build compliance from the ground up in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on compliance infrastructure during a critical growth phase.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in financial services compliance with hands-on leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
We're recruiting on behalf of an ambitious FCA-regulated B2B payments fintech. They're seeking an experienced Head of Compliance to build world-class compliance infrastructure during a critical growth phase. This is a hands-on leadership role managing a significant FCA remediation programme and designing the policy frameworks that will support their next growth phase. You'll work directly with their MLRO and senior leadership team. This isn't a back-office compliance role. You'll be in the room where strategic decisions are made, shaping how the business operates as a regulated fintech.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
- Lead delivery of the client's FCA remediation programme—owning timelines, evidence, regulatory reporting, and corrective actions
- Design and implement comprehensive AML/CTF policy frameworks, governance structures, and regulatory procedures
- Manage direct engagement with the FCA—preparing submissions, evidence packs, and responses to regulatory queries
- Oversee transaction monitoring, SAR submission, and day-to-day compliance operations
- Build compliance culture across the business through training and awareness
WHO YOU ARE
- 5+ years in financial services compliance; with experience in a hands-on senior management role
- Direct experience with FCA Section 166 reviews or equivalent regulatory enforcement action (you can articulate what this is and how to respond)
- Led compliance remediation programmes following regulatory enforcement or significant compliance failures
- Designed AML/CTF policy frameworks and governance structures from scratch or at scale
- Deep knowledge of FCA Handbook, JMLSG guidance, MLR 2017
- Fintech, payments, or EMI/banking compliance background (not traditional banking compliance alone)
- Familiar with compliance tools (ComplyAdvantage, Sumsub, transaction monitoring systems)
- Self-starter capable of working independently in a fully remote environment
- Excellent written communication; able to produce regulatory-grade documentation
WHY THIS OPPORTUNITY
- Build compliance at scale at an ambitious FCA-regulated fintech during a critical growth phase
- Hybrid role with flexibility (primarily home based)
- Direct access to senior leadership and the MLRO—real influence on strategy
- Competitive salary (£70,000 - £100,000+ depending on experience)
- The opportunity to shape regulatory strategy and compliance culture from day one
WHAT THIS ISN'T
- We're not looking for someone who oversees a team of analysts from a distance (this is hands-on leadership), building from the ground up.
- A box-ticking compliance person (our client needs strategic thinking and regulatory savvy)
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Compliance
✨Join Compliance Communities
Get involved in compliance and risk communities — both online and offline. Look for forums, LinkedIn groups, or even local meetups where compliance pros hang out. You never know who might drop a job opportunity your way!
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye out for compliance and risk management conferences and workshops in your area. These events are a goldmine for networking, and they often have job boards or recruiters on-site looking for new talent. Plus, it’s a chance to learn what's trending in the field.
✨Leverage Your University Career Services
If you’ve recently graduated or are still studying, head over to your university's career services. Many companies, including those in compliance, actively recruit fresh talent through these services, so make sure you tap into that resource.
✨Showcase Your Knowledge Online
Start writing articles or blog posts about compliance topics that interest you. Share them on platforms like LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and passion. This not only builds your presence in the field but can also catch the attention of companies like LP Recruitment looking for candidates who are engaged and informed.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Compliance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Understanding of Compliance:In the compliance-risk field, it's super important to showcase your understanding of regulations and risk management frameworks. Highlight any relevant coursework, certifications (like ICA or AML), or even projects that demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to this area. We want to see how you can navigate this complex landscape!
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, try to quantify your achievements. For example, if you've previously worked on a project that improved compliance metrics or reduced risk exposure, give us the numbers! This data-driven approach really stands out to hiring managers in compliance-risk roles.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Relevant Skills:Make sure your CV highlights skills that are particularly relevant to compliance, like attention to detail, analytical thinking, and report writing. Ensure these are easy to spot – consider using bullet points to break down your responsibilities and achievements for maximum impact!
Craft a Motivating Cover Letter:In your cover letter, let us know why you’re excited about the compliance-risk role at LP Recruitment. Share what motivates you about compliance, and how you believe you can contribute to our mission. This is your chance to showcase not only your skills but also your passion for this important field!
How to prepare for a job interview at LP Recruitment
✨Master the Regulations
Brush up on key compliance regulations relevant to the industry you're applying to. Familiarising yourself with specific laws and frameworks used in your field will give you an edge during technical questions. Show that you’re not just aware of them but can also apply them—think real-life scenarios!
✨Show Your Analytical Skills
Compliance roles really focus on analytical skills, so be prepared for case studies or situational questions during the interview. We've got to demonstrate how we approach risk assessments or compliance audits, possibly drawing on examples from past experiences or university projects. Bring some thoughtful case scenarios to discuss!
✨Know Your Tools
Get comfortable with commonly used compliance software and tools. Familiarity with platforms like RSA or MetricStream can really impress during your interview, as it shows you're ready to hit the ground running. If you’ve had any experience with them, make sure to highlight that!
✨Align with Company Culture
Since it's a full-time position, show your long-term commitment and interest in the company’s mission and values. Dive into how your ethics and professional philosophy align with LP Recruitment’s stance on compliance. A shared vision can really resonate with interviewers looking for fit as much as skill!