Head of Risk & Compliance (12 Month FTC) in London
Head of Risk & Compliance (12 Month FTC)

Head of Risk & Compliance (12 Month FTC) in London

London Full-Time 57800 - 67800 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
The Francis Crick Institute

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead risk and compliance initiatives to safeguard the Crick's integrity and reputation.
  • Company: Join Europe's largest biomedical research institute, fostering innovation and collaboration.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary from £96,452, flexible working options, and a dynamic work environment.
  • Why this job: Shape the future of biomedical research while influencing ethics and compliance strategies.
  • Qualifications: Proven leadership in risk management and compliance within complex organisations.
  • Other info: Opportunity for significant impact in a high-profile non-profit with diverse stakeholders.

The predicted salary is between 57800 - 67800 £ per year.

Salary for this Role: From £96,452 with benefits, subject to skills and experience.

Contract term: This is full-time or part time (0.8 FTE), initially for a fixed term of 12 months on Crick terms and conditions of employment.

Start date: Given current priorities, we would particularly welcome applications from candidates who are available at short notice or able to join us promptly.

Application deadline: Sunday 15th March 2026.

About us

The Francis Crick Institute is Europe’s largest biomedical research institute under one roof. Our world-class scientists and staff collaborate on vital research to help prevent, diagnose and treat illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, infectious diseases and neurodegenerative conditions. The Crick is a place for collaboration, innovation and exploration across many disciplines. A space where the brightest minds can pursue big and bold ideas and discover answers to crucial scientific questions. We support them in a dynamic environment which fosters excellence with state-of-the-art infrastructure, cutting‑edge facilities, and a creative and curious culture. We’ve removed traditional boundaries of departments, divisions and disciplines and instead have an open approach that supports every researcher. This gives us the freedom to take risks and carry out high‑quality, pioneering research. Creating a space for discovery without boundaries helps us to turn our science into benefits for human health and the economy.

About the role

We are seeking an outstanding Head of Risk & Compliance to shape the risk and compliance framework within the Francis Crick Institute. Reporting to the Group Finance Director, you will safeguard the Crick’s integrity, reputation and long‑term sustainability – while enabling innovation to flourish. This is an opportunity to influence risk, ethics and assurance strategy within a complex, high‑profile non‑profit organisation with significant public trust responsibilities and a diverse range of stakeholders, funders and partners.

What you will be doing

  • Providing leadership and direction to a range of critical capabilities, including Corporate Risk Management, Compliance, Information Governance, Data Privacy, Internal Audit and Insurance.
  • Working closely with the Group Finance Director, Chief Financial Officer and General Counsel to inform the Institute’s related strategy, framework, and approach, for the critical capabilities listed.
  • Providing advice and guidance directly to the Executive Management Team and Audit & Risk Committee through regular reports which provide a robust assessment of assurance and recommendations for improvement.
  • Maintaining and enhancing a coordinated risk, ethics and compliance management framework that promotes and ensures the integration of the Institute’s code of conduct into its culture and daily operations.
  • Delivering the annual internal audit programme and strengthening in‑house assurance capability.
  • Overseeing insurance strategy and renewals, ensuring proportionate risk management.

Head of Risk & Compliance (12 Month FTC) in London employer: The Francis Crick Institute

The Francis Crick Institute is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment that fosters innovation and exploration in biomedical research. With a commitment to employee growth and development, staff benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research that impacts human health. Located in the heart of London, the Crick provides a unique chance to work alongside world-class scientists while enjoying a culture that values creativity and curiosity.
The Francis Crick Institute

Contact Detail:

The Francis Crick Institute Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Risk & Compliance (12 Month FTC) in London

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with your own. We recommend practising common interview questions and even role-playing with a friend to boost your confidence before the big day.

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase your expertise during interviews by sharing relevant experiences and examples. We want to see how you’ve tackled challenges in the past, especially in risk and compliance. Be ready to discuss your thought process and the impact of your decisions.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. We suggest reiterating your enthusiasm for the role and mentioning something specific from the conversation to make it personal.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Risk & Compliance (12 Month FTC) in London

Risk Management
Compliance Management
Information Governance
Data Privacy
Internal Audit
Insurance Strategy
Leadership Skills
Stakeholder Engagement
Strategic Planning
Communication Skills
Analytical Skills
Ethics and Assurance Strategy
Report Writing
Problem-Solving Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Risk & Compliance role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role at the Francis Crick Institute. Share your passion for risk management and compliance, and how you can contribute to our mission.

Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a Head of Risk & Compliance, leadership is key. In your application, give examples of how you've led teams or projects in the past. We love to see candidates who can inspire and guide others!

Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our innovative team!

How to prepare for a job interview at The Francis Crick Institute

✨Know Your Stuff

Make sure you thoroughly understand the role of Head of Risk & Compliance. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities, such as Corporate Risk Management and Compliance. Brush up on relevant regulations and frameworks that are crucial for the position.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

Prepare examples that demonstrate your leadership experience, especially in risk management and compliance. Think about times when you've successfully led a team or influenced strategy, and be ready to discuss how you can bring that expertise to the Crick.

✨Understand Their Culture

The Francis Crick Institute values collaboration and innovation. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to their dynamic environment. Share your thoughts on fostering a culture of compliance and ethics while enabling innovation to thrive.

✨Ask Insightful Questions

Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in the role and the organisation. Inquire about their current risk management challenges or how they envision the future of compliance at the Crick. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.

Head of Risk & Compliance (12 Month FTC) in London
The Francis Crick Institute
Location: London

Land your dream job quicker with Premium

You’re marked as a top applicant with our partner companies
Individual CV and cover letter feedback including tailoring to specific job roles
Be among the first applications for new jobs with our AI application
1:1 support and career advice from our career coaches
Go Premium

Money-back if you don't land a job in 6-months

>