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- Tasks: Lead compliance and data protection activities, ensuring adherence to FCA and ICO regulations.
- Company: Dynamic financial services group committed to regulatory integrity and customer outcomes.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive workplace, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on compliance strategies and data protection in a leading organisation.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in compliance roles, strong leadership skills, and knowledge of UK GDPR.
- Other info: Join a diverse team and enjoy a supportive work environment.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 84000 £ per year.
As a Head of Compliance you will lead and oversee all compliance and data protection activities across the Group, ensuring adherence to FCA and ICO regulations. You will hold Senior Management Function 16 (Compliance Oversight) approval under the FCA’s SM&CR and act as the statutory Data Protection Officer. You will deliver strategic direction, advice and assurance to the Board and Executive Team, ensuring regulatory integrity, good customer outcomes and responsible data stewardship. This role provides independent second line of defence (2LOD) advice and assurance, as delegated by the Chief Risk Officer, and is part of the second line Group Risk Leadership team.
Responsibilities
- Lead the development and implementation of the Group’s compliance and data protection strategies and target operating model.
- Engage with and provide constructive challenges to senior management and Board committees.
- Manage and develop a team of compliance and data protection professionals (c9 FTE).
- Develop and maintain policies, procedures and training programmes to ensure consistent compliance and data protection standards.
- Liaise with internal and external auditors, regulators and legal advisors.
- Own and maintain the Group’s compliance framework, ensuring alignment with FCA Principles, SYSC, MCOB and Consumer Duty.
- Develop and oversee the Compliance Monitoring Plan and Compliance Universe using risk‑based prioritisation.
- Provide expert compliance advice and guidance on regulatory requirements across business activities, including new initiatives, product development, operational change and customer communications.
- Conduct regulatory breach assessments.
- Lead horizon scanning and impact assessment of regulatory developments, translating FCA requirements into business plans.
- Act as a primary point of contact with the FCA for engagement, notifications and information requests.
- Act as the Group’s designated DPO in accordance with the UK GDPR, including reference to Articles 37‑39.
- Develop, implement and maintain a Data Protection Compliance Framework, including the production and review of data protection policies, procedures, standards and training.
- Advise on and oversee Data Protection Impact Assessments, ensuring data protection by design and by default is embedded in all relevant projects and initiatives, and liaise with the regulator where required.
- Monitor compliance with UK data protection laws and internal policies.
- Lead the response to data protection incidents and personal data breaches.
Qualifications
Essential:
- Proven experience as SMF16 and DPO in a FCA regulated environment, ideally in a lending environment.
- Extensive knowledge and experience of the Financial Conduct Authority and its supervisory approach.
- Expert understanding of UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018.
- Strong leadership and people management skills.
- CIPP/E, CIPT or CISM qualified.
- Broad understanding of an enterprise risk management framework and how regulatory compliance and conduct risk operate within it.
Desirable:
- CeMAP ICA qualifications.
- Recognised Data Protection Practitioner certification.
Together embraces diversity and inclusion, and is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We support reasonable adjustments during any stage of the recruitment process. All successful applicants will undergo relevant employment reference, financial and criminal record checks.
Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level
Employment type: Full‑time
Job function: Finance
Location: Cheadle, Cheshire, United Kingdom
Head of Compliance SMF16 employer: Together - Loans, Mortgages & Finance
Contact Detail:
Together - Loans, Mortgages & Finance Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Compliance SMF16
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the compliance and data protection field. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of FCA regulations and UK GDPR. Be ready to discuss how you've tackled compliance challenges in the past. Show them you’re not just a candidate, but the right fit for their team!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Head of Compliance role. We want to see your application directly, so make sure you showcase your skills and experience clearly!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Compliance SMF16
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Compliance role. Highlight your experience with FCA regulations and data protection, as these are key to what we’re looking for.
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. Mention specific examples of how you've led compliance initiatives or managed teams in the past.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role involves managing a team, be sure to highlight your leadership experience. Talk about how you've developed teams and driven compliance strategies in previous positions.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining the StudySmarter family!
How to prepare for a job interview at Together - Loans, Mortgages & Finance
✨Know Your Regulations Inside Out
As a Head of Compliance, you'll need to demonstrate a solid understanding of FCA and ICO regulations. Brush up on the latest updates and be ready to discuss how these regulations impact the business. Show that you can translate complex regulatory requirements into actionable strategies.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves managing a team of compliance professionals, so be prepared to share examples of your leadership experience. Talk about how you've developed teams in the past, handled challenges, and fostered a culture of compliance. Highlight your ability to engage with senior management and influence decision-making.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world compliance scenarios. Think about past experiences where you had to navigate regulatory challenges or lead a response to data protection incidents. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers effectively.
✨Demonstrate Your Strategic Thinking
The role requires delivering strategic direction to the Board and Executive Team. Be ready to discuss how you would develop and implement compliance and data protection strategies. Share your vision for aligning compliance frameworks with business objectives and ensuring good customer outcomes.