Head of Compliance

Waterhouse-Kern Associates is proud to be working with a large Financial Services company in Central London to find them a new Head of Compliance (SMF16). You will play a crucial role in ensuring regulatory compliance, and driving a culture of integrity. You will be part of a fast-paced, tech-led and innovative environment. If you are passionate about compliance, thrive in a collaborative setting we would love to hear from you.

The Role

The Head of Compliance (SMF16) will play a critical role in ensuring that our client operates within the framework of all applicable regulations and standards. This is a senior role and will involve designing, implementing and managing a robust compliance framework that supports our strategic objectives while mitigating regulatory risks. The successful candidate will act as the primary contact with regulatory bodies and oversee all aspects of compliance, including monitoring, reporting and advisory functions.

Key Responsibilities

● Assume responsibility for the firm’s compliance with the regulatory framework, fulfilling the SMF16 function under the Senior Managers and Certification Regime (SMCR)

● Develop, implement and maintain the firm’s compliance policies, procedures, and systems to ensure alignment with relevant laws and regulations (e.g., FCA Handbook)

● Provide expert advice and guidance to the Board, senior management and business units on compliance matters

● Monitor regulatory developments and assess their impact on the organisation, ensuring timely updates to policies and practices

● Foster a culture of compliance awareness and accountability across the organisation

● Conduct regular compliance monitoring reviews, identify gaps and implement remedial actions

● Act as the primary liaison with regulatory bodies, including preparing and submitting reports, handling inspections and responding to inquiries

● Oversee regulatory training programs for employees to enhance understanding of compliance obligations

● Collaborate with internal audit, risk management and other control functions to ensure a coordinated approach to governance

● Prepare and present compliance reports to the Board and relevant committees

● Work with the wider Group Risk and Compliance functions

● Oversee financial advice propositions and work with core financial advice teams, including wealth planning and digital advice

● Support merger and acquisitions workstreams on all compliance related topics

● Oversee and support training and competence functions in the delivery of effective competence across regulated financial advice and non regulated financial coaching

● Own and maintain compliance with the Senior Managers and Certification Regime, ensuring group companies continue to apply the scheme effectively

● Oversee and contribute to the firm’s financial promotions framework

Key Skills and Experience

● Proven experience in a senior compliance role in Financial Advice - specifically with exposure to Investments and Pensions

● Extensive knowledge of UK regulatory requirements, including the FCA frameworks

● Strong understanding of the Senior Managers and Certification Regime (SMCR)

● Exceptional leadership and management skills with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels

● Analytical mindset with a proactive approach to problem-solving and risk mitigation

● Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

● A relevant professional qualification (e.g., ICA, CISI or legal qualifications) is desirable

● Proven experience working with MIFIDPRU and UCITS firms, including expertise in discretionary fund management

● Qualified to a minimum CII Level 4 (or equivalent Pension and Investment Advice qualification) with previous experience in Training & Competency supervision is required