At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead governance and compliance efforts, ensuring accountability and effective decision-making.
- Company: Join the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, a key player in public service.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous pension, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Access to professional development and a supportive, diverse work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on governance while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in governance, compliance, and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 69935 - 85477 £ per year.
- Head of Governance and Compliance
- Maritime and Coastguard Agency
Location
Southampton (This role is suitable for hybrid working)
Salary
£57,515 - A Civil Service Pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%
Contract Type
Fixed term 6 months with potential for extension and/or permanency – Flexible working, Full-time, Job share, Part-time
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) is seeking a Head of Governance and Compliance to lead and strengthen the Agency’s governance and compliance framework.
This is a senior leadership role within Corporate Services, providing assurance to the Chief Corporate Officer that statutory, regulatory and central government requirements are met.
You will oversee the running of executive and board governance, assurance activity, compliance monitoring, legal reporting and key annual governance products, while helping to embed a culture of good governance, ethical leadership and continuous improvement across the Agency.
As Head of Governance and Compliance, you will lead the MCA’s governance and compliance activity, ensuring effective frameworks, systems and reporting are in place to support accountability and informed decision-making.
You will oversee key governance meetings and statutory products, and work across the Agency to monitor compliance and drive continuous improvement.
- Top Responsibilities
- Leading and developing the Governance and Compliance team, building a high-performing and supportive culture.
- Maintaining MCA’s corporate governance framework in line with government standards and organisational requirements.
- Overseeing compliance with legal, regulatory and central government requirements, including monitoring and reporting arrangements.
- Designing and maintaining governance structures that support accountability, transparency and effective decision-making.
- Managing MCA governance meeting cycles, including Executive Committee, MCA Board, Audit and Risk Committee and Sponsorship Board activity.
For more information on the role and responsibilities please see the full job advert on CS Jobs using the link provided.
- Employer pension contribution of 28.97% of your salary. Read more about Civil Service Pensions here
- 25 days annual leave, increasing by 1 day each year of service (up to a maximum of 30 days annual leave).
- 8 Bank Holidays plus an additional Privilege Day to mark the King’s birthday.
- Access to the staff discount portal.
- Excellent career development opportunities and the potential to undertake professional qualifications relevant to your role paid for by the department, such as CIPD, Prince2, apprenticeships, etc.
- Joining a diverse and inclusive workforce with a range of staff communities to support all our colleagues.
- 24-hour Employee Assistance Programme providing free confidential help and advice for staff.
- Flexible working options where we encourage a great work-life balance.
About You
- To be successful in this role you will need to have the following experience:
- Be a credible and authentic leader, with the ability to articulate a vision, and engage people to deliver results.
- Experience of providing effective advice on compliance issues, including legal and regulatory where applicable, and applying public sector guidelines and rules.
- Extensive experience in corporate governance, compliance, assurance or public sector controls frameworks and producing statutory governance products (e. g., Governance Statements, assurance returns).
- Experience providing authoritative governance advice to senior leaders and Boards.
- Understanding of Government Functional Standards and central government compliance frameworks.
- Highly developed interpersonal, communication and influencing skills with a demonstrable ability to develop and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders up to a senior level.
- Excellent organisational and management skills with the ability to work proactively and at pace to deliver against multiple priorities.
- Experience of handling sensitive information with tact and maintaining confidentiality.
- This vacancy closes at 23:55 on Thursday 27th August 2026
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Head of Governance and Compliance in Southampton employer: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation meets public service. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to continuous training and growth opportunities while contributing to vital projects that enhance national safety. Located in a collaborative atmosphere, the MCA values teamwork and encourages a culture of improvement, making it a rewarding place for those passionate about technology and public service.
Contact Details:
Maritime and Coastguard Agency Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Governance and Compliance in Southampton
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Maritime and Coastguard Agency, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Maritime and Coastguard Agency and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Governance and Compliance in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Maritime and Coastguard Agency and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Maritime and Coastguard Agency
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Maritime and Coastguard Agency, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Maritime and Coastguard Agency.
