At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Policy team to shape impactful regulations in the payments sector.
- Company: Payment Systems Regulator, a key player in UK financial regulation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, diverse workplace, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to diversity and shaping the future of payments.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in consumer protection and innovation in payments.
- Qualifications: Senior policy leadership experience and understanding of the payments sector.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 90000 € per year.
The Payment Systems Regulator is an independent economic regulator led by a Managing Director, who is also Executive Director, Payments and Digital Finance for the FCA. The PSR is currently a subsidiary of the FCA, however it is to be consolidated into the FCA, simplifying payments regulation. The work of the PSR has a significant impact on millions of consumers and businesses as well as UK and international markets. It ensures firms have the interests of their clients and the integrity of the market at the heart of how they run their business; setting the standards the PSR expects firms to meet and exploring and analysing identified risks within firms in the payment systems sector.
An exciting opportunity has arisen to lead the PSR’s Policy team as Head of Department. This role sits at the heart of the PSR’s work, leading high impact policy development across priority areas including card fees, variable recurring payments and Authorised Push Payment fraud. You will lead a team through a period of significant change and innovation across the PSR/FCA and the wider payments landscape, shaping pragmatic, evidence based policy that reflects the PSR’s strategic objectives and statutory duties. Working closely with internal and external stakeholders, you will use the regulator’s powers confidently and creatively to promote competition and innovation, protect consumers, and reinforce the PSR and FCA’s reputation as a leading regulator.
The successful candidate will:
- Shape decisions at the highest level that influence both the PSR and the future of the UK’s payments systems, as Head of Policy and a member of the PSR Executive Team, contributing directly to organisational leadership, strategy and impact.
- Lead the development and delivery of regulatory policy across the PSR’s remit, providing authoritative advice to the FCA Executive and Board, sponsoring major initiatives that address harm, strengthen payment systems and drive greater competition, innovation and choice.
- Represent the PSR with senior leaders across major banks and payment firms, the FCA, Bank of England, HM Treasury, the CMA and Parliament, building credibility through confident and effective engagement.
The successful candidate will bring:
- Senior level policy leadership, ideally combined with an understanding of the payments sector.
- A strong track record of leading large, multidisciplinary teams under pressure, driving delivery, operational improvement and sustainable change alongside business as usual.
- Excellent influencing and stakeholder management skills, enabling delivery through others across the PSR and FCA and with external partners.
The FCA is committed to achieving greater diversity across all levels of the organisation. Given this, they particularly welcome applications from women, disabled and minority ethnic candidates, as under‑represented groups.
The closing date for this role is Sunday 21st June at 23.55.
Head of Department - Policy in Leeds employer: Payment Systems Regulator
The Payment Systems Regulator (PSR) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where you can lead impactful policy development that shapes the future of the UK's payment systems. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, the PSR fosters a collaborative culture that encourages professional growth and innovation, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a meaningful difference in the financial sector. Located at the heart of regulatory change, employees benefit from engaging with key stakeholders across the industry, enhancing their expertise and influence in a rapidly evolving landscape.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Department - Policy in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the payments sector, especially those connected to the PSR or FCA. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into current issues in the payments landscape. Show us you’re not just familiar with the basics but also have a finger on the pulse of what’s happening right now. This will demonstrate your passion and commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you note to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll be part of a community that values innovation and integrity in the payments sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Department - Policy in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Head of Department - Policy role. Highlight your understanding of the payments sector and how your leadership experience can drive change.
Showcase Your Impact:When detailing your previous roles, focus on the impact you've made. Use quantifiable achievements to demonstrate how you've shaped policy or led teams through significant changes, as this will resonate well with us at StudySmarter.
Engage with Our Values:Familiarise yourself with the values and mission of the PSR and FCA. Reflect these in your application to show that you’re not just a fit for the role, but also for our culture and objectives.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. This ensures that your application is received directly and allows us to process it efficiently. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Payment Systems Regulator
✨Know Your Policy Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the current policies and regulations affecting the payments sector. Familiarise yourself with recent changes and how they impact consumers and businesses. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams through change and innovation. Highlight specific instances where your leadership made a tangible difference, especially in high-pressure situations. This will help illustrate your capability to lead the PSR’s Policy team effectively.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you would approach building relationships with key stakeholders like banks, the FCA, and HM Treasury. Be ready to discuss strategies for effective engagement and how you would represent the PSR’s interests confidently in these discussions.
✨Demonstrate Your Analytical Skills
Be prepared to discuss how you analyse risks and develop evidence-based policy. Bring examples of how your analytical skills have led to successful outcomes in previous roles. This will show that you can shape pragmatic policies that align with the PSR’s strategic objectives.
