At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operational assurance and drive large-scale change for improved performance.
- Company: Join Wave, a forward-thinking organisation committed to inclusivity.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous holiday, and wellness perks.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a supportive culture await you.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by enhancing operational resilience and driving innovation.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in complex environments and strong data interpretation skills.
The predicted salary is between 70667 - 70667 £ per year.
Position: 37 hours per week, Permanent
Location: Contractual base in Savill House, Durham with hybrid working opportunities
Salary: £70,667 plus discretionary bonus up to 12% of annual salary
Job Level: B
Reporting to: Director of Operations
Role Overview
The Head of Operational Assurance is a strategic, people‑led role responsible for strengthening operational performance, consistency and resilience across the organisation. The role acts as a bridge between data, operations and change – translating complex performance, risk and insight into clear actions, scalable processes and sustainable improvements. It leads large‑scale operational change, embeds robust controls and ways of working, and drives continuous improvement through strong cross‑functional collaboration.
Typical Day
- Ensuring operations perform safely, consistently and effectively, translating insight into meaningful improvement.
- Overseeing operational performance, risk, controls and emerging issues through data, assurance and business listening.
- Guiding conversations, challenging constructively and ensuring decisions are well‑informed and aligned to risk appetite.
- Embedding better ways of working, strengthening controls, and ensuring assurance findings lead to lasting outcomes.
- Working across operations, risk, change and leadership to turn complexity into clarity and action.
- Anticipating risks, pressures and impacts of change to keep operations resilient.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and develop three people leaders overseeing data integrity, account resolution and revenue assurance.
- Drive cross‑functional collaboration to deliver operational excellence.
- Embed robust controls and governance frameworks across the organisation.
- Translate data and assurance insight into actionable system improvements.
- Serve as an influence and liaison between operational and executive stakeholders.
Experience & Qualifications
- Senior operational leadership experience within complex, large‑scale environments.
- Strong background in operational assurance, risk, controls or governance.
- Ability to interpret data and assurance insight to identify systemic issues and priorities.
- Proven capability to drive and embed sustainable operational change.
- Confident influencer who can challenge and engage executives constructively.
- Calm, resilient leader with strong judgement, integrity and outcomes‑focused mindset.
Benefits
Wealth Benefits
- Excellent pension scheme – double match up to 5% employee contribution.
- Bonus potential.
- Perkbox membership with savings across retailers, dining, travel and fitness.
- Income protection scheme.
- Personal accident insurance.
- 4× salary life assurance.
- Free onsite parking.
Time Off
- 24 days holiday rising to 26 days plus bank holidays.
- Birthday day off.
- Half a day off on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve.
- Option to buy holidays.
- 1 day paid volunteering.
Wellbeing Supports
- Hybrid/Flexible working.
- Healthcare cashback and treatment scheme.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Annual conference and Christmas party.
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
- Free flu shots.
Family Friendly
- Enhanced maternity and paternity pay.
- Enhanced shared parental and adoption leave.
- Resources available to employees and their families.
Wave is proud to be an inclusive employer and actively encourages applications from all backgrounds. Adjustments or individual requirements during the recruitment journey will be considered. If you require additional support, please contact.
Wave processes your data in line with data protection laws. You can find out more by accessing our Recruitment Privacy Notice.
Head of Operational Assurance employer: Wave
Wave is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. With a competitive salary, generous benefits including a robust pension scheme, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for meaningful impact through operational excellence, employees in Durham can thrive both personally and professionally in this strategic leadership role.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operational Assurance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to operational assurance. We all know that confidence is key, so the more you rehearse, the better you'll perform when it counts!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've driven operational change or improved processes in previous roles. This will help us see your potential impact in the Head of Operational Assurance position.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operational Assurance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in operational assurance and leadership. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements!
Showcase Your Data Skills:Since this role involves translating data into actionable insights, be sure to include examples of how you've used data to drive improvements in past roles. We love seeing candidates who can turn numbers into narratives!
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. We value authenticity and want to get a sense of who you are beyond your qualifications. Share your passion for operational excellence and how you approach challenges.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. This helps us keep track of your application and ensures it gets the attention it deserves. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wave
✨Know Your Numbers
As the Head of Operational Assurance, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to interpret data effectively. Brush up on key metrics related to operational performance and be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive improvements in past roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role involves leading people and driving cross-functional collaboration. Be prepared to share specific examples of how you've successfully led teams, managed change, and influenced stakeholders in complex environments.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and judgement. Think of scenarios where you've had to anticipate risks or manage operational challenges, and be ready to explain your thought process and the outcomes.
✨Align with Company Values
Research the company's mission and values, especially around inclusivity and operational excellence. During the interview, express how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their goals.
