At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the creation of Norven's AI assurance practice and conduct independent reviews.
- Company: Join a pioneering startup focused on responsible AI governance.
- Benefits: Founding equity, flexible structure, and direct access to the founder.
- Other info: Opportunity to build an institution from the ground up.
- Why this job: Shape the future of AI governance and set new professional standards.
- Qualifications: Senior-level experience in governance, risk, or assurance is essential.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
A founding leader to build and run Norven's AI assurance practice — the independent, Fellow-led review of consequential AI deployment decisions for regulated institutions.
AI now makes consequential decisions inside banks, insurers, public bodies and AI vendors faster than those institutions can evidence, govern and defend them. Norven produces the missing artefact: an independent, evidence-backed review of a specific AI decision, with a named human standing behind the judgement and a full audit trail. This person builds the practice that delivers it.
What you will do:
- Shape the methodology — define how a Norven Institutional Screen / Due-Care Review is scoped, conducted, evidenced and recorded.
- Lead the first engagements — win and deliver the earliest reviews with financial-services, insurance and AI-vendor clients; carry the room with senior buyers (CRO, Head of Model Risk, General Counsel, board).
- Convene the Fellowship — help recruit and curate the body of former regulators, King's Counsel and AI-safety authorities whose names give the work its weight.
- Set the standard — independence, conflict management, evidence handling and quality control that hold Norven to a higher governance bar than the incumbents it reviews.
- Build the institution — not run a finished one.
Who you are:
Someone who has carried real accountability for governance, risk or assurance at a senior level — and is respected by the people they would convene. Likely one of: a former regulator or public-body leader; a Big-Four / assurance-firm governance or Responsible-AI partner; an AI-safety or frontier-lab governance leader; or a financial-services risk executive. You are commercially credible, institutionally serious, and want ownership rather than a title in a hierarchy.
What is on offer:
A founding partner seat with founding equity in a category-defining company. The chance to define a new professional standard, alongside a marquee Fellowship. A direct line to the founder and the strategic core of the business.
Structure:
Flexible for the right person — employed, Founding Fellow, or fractional to start, converting as the company funds. Terms and equity finalised with counsel and the cap-table. The standard is fixed; the structure is negotiable.
Boundaries:
Norven produces independent, evidence-backed judgement — not certification, not legal advice, not a compliance guarantee, not liability transfer. We review decisions; we do not underwrite outcomes.
How to express interest:
Message Founder directly, or ask a mutual contact to introduce you. No application form; this is a conversation.
Founding Partner, AI Assurance in London employer: Norven
Norven is an exceptional employer for those seeking to make a significant impact in the AI assurance landscape. With a founding partner role that offers equity and the opportunity to shape a new professional standard, employees benefit from a flexible structure and direct access to the strategic core of the business. The work culture fosters independence and innovation, making it an ideal environment for leaders who are passionate about governance and risk in the rapidly evolving AI sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Founding Partner, AI Assurance in London
✨Show Off Your Expertise Online
In the banking and financial services world, sharing your insights on platforms like LinkedIn can really set you apart. Write articles about market trends or finance tips, and engage in discussions in relevant groups. This not only boosts your visibility but also highlights your knowledge to potential clients.
✨Join Freelance Platforms and Networking Events
Freelancing in finance can be competitive, so make sure you're on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, specifically targeting finance gigs. Also, look for finance networking events or webinars to connect with small businesses that might need your services. Meeting people face-to-face (or online) can score you those elusive freelance contracts.
✨Build a Stunning Portfolio
Since you're going freelance, having a solid portfolio is a must. Showcase your previous work, such as reports or analyses, and consider using case studies to highlight your approach. The more you can demonstrate your skills, the easier it is for clients to trust you with their finances.
✨Direct Outreach is Key
For freelance gigs, don't wait for opportunities to come to you. Identify companies or startups that align with your skills and reach out directly. A personalised message introducing yourself and proposing how you could add value can go a long way. Plus, keep an eye on Norven for freelance opportunities—they might have just what you’re looking for!
We think you need these skills to ace Founding Partner, AI Assurance in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Financial Savvy:When applying for a freelance role in banking and financial services, we need to see your expertise front and centre! Mention specific financial regulations or tools you've mastered, and feel free to include your relevant qualifications, like CFA or ACCA, to bolster your credibility.
Build a Stellar Portfolio:Since this is a freelance gig, your portfolio is your ticket to impressing us at Norven. Include examples of past projects you've completed—think financial analyses, investment reports, or forecasting models. Be sure to highlight the results you achieved!
Tailor Your Rates and Availability:We want to see that you're flexible and can align with our needs. Clearly outline your freelance rates, availability for projects, and whether you're open to long-term collaborations or just ad-hoc gigs. This makes it easier for us to understand how we can work together!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express not just your skills, but also why you're excited about joining Norven. Share your passion for financial services and how you plan to tackle challenges in this sector. This is your chance to connect on a personal level—make it count!
How to prepare for a job interview at Norven
✨Show Off Your Financial Savvy
When you're talking with Norven, make sure to highlight your experience with financial modelling, risk assessment, or portfolio management. Freelance work often requires a good level of financial literacy, so prepare to discuss any relevant tools you've used, whether it's Excel or specific financial software.
✨Bring Your Portfolio to Life
A freelance role means you’ll want to showcase your previous work effectively. Put together a portfolio that not only highlights your projects but also demonstrates the outcomes - think case studies or success stories that showcase how your financial skills made a difference for past clients.
✨Know Your Regulations and Compliance
In the banking and financial services world, understanding compliance and regulations is crucial. Make sure you’re up to date with the latest standards as they relate to your expertise. Be prepared for specific questions about how you've navigated these in past roles or how you'd approach potential compliance challenges.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Your Rates and Availability
As a freelancer, the topic of rates and availability can come up early on. Be clear about what you offer and how you charge. It might also help to have a few examples in mind where your expertise saved someone money or improved efficiency to justify your rates to Norven.
