Head of Compliance and Operational Risk

As one of the fastest-growing building societies in the UK, we combine a proud heritage with bold ambitions for the future. Everything we do is driven by our purpose - Helping People Live Better Lives - whether that's supporting our members through financial challenges, strengthening our communities, or acting with integrity at every step.

We're looking for an experienced, credible Head of Compliance and Operational Risk to lead the Society's approach to operational risk, regulatory compliance and data protection.

Reporting to the Chief Risk and Compliance Officer, you'll provide trusted advice and oversight across the Society, supporting strong governance, effective assurance and continuous improvement in our risk environment.

Working closely with senior leaders, first line teams and key stakeholders, you'll lead activity across regulatory change, RCSAs, risk events, assurance planning, committee reporting and risk and compliance policies.

If you are passionate about good customer outcomes, proactive risk management and helping a purpose-led Society operate with confidence and integrity, we would love to hear from you!

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the Society's approach to identifying, monitoring and managing material compliance obligations.
• Develop and ensure successful delivery of the annual regulatory compliance assurance plan and RCSA programme.
• Maintain awareness of the regulatory landscape, providing clear advice and support to help the Society prepare for and deliver regulatory change.
• Provide compliance oversight and practical support across Society projects and key business initiatives.
• Provide advice and guidance to the business on relevant procedures, policies and regulatory, legal and statutory duties.
• Oversee risk events, including assessment, regulatory reportability, root cause analysis and remediation activity.
• Produce accurate, insightful risk and compliance reporting for committees and senior stakeholders, supporting quality governance conversations.
• Maintain and develop relevant risk and compliance policies, including the Enterprise Risk Management Framework and Compliance Approach.
• Manage supplier relationships for the Insight system and support the delivery of strong third-party management expectations.
• Lead, support and develop colleagues within the Risk and Compliance team to deliver a consistent second line experience.

What we're looking for

• High level of technical knowledge and proven experience managing compliance and operational risk within a regulated financial services environment.
• Strong understanding of mortgages and savings products, with the ability to apply regulatory knowledge in a practical and proportionate way.
• Experience providing advice on FCA and PRA rules, regulatory change and operational risk matters.
• Experience overseeing or delivering RCSAs, assurance activity, risk event management and committee reporting.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the confidence to influence senior stakeholders and present at committees.
• Strong organisational skills, sound judgement and the ability to balance regulatory expectations with commercial priorities.
• A positive, collaborative leadership style, with the ability to develop others and create an inclusive environment where people can do their best work.
• Previous experience in a regulatory role holding certified or code staff status would be desirable.
  
  

What you'll get in return

• Competitive salary between £65,000 and £75,000, depending on skills and experience.
• Intelligent working - our policies allow you to work where best suits your day ahead.
• 30 days' holiday + bank holidays + "Moments that Matter" days.
• Up to 8% pension contribution.
• Life assurance at 4× salary.
• Private medical insurance for you and your family.
• Healthcare plan covering everyday essentials such as dental and optical.
• Access to salary sacrifice schemes including Cycle to Work and Electric Car.

Diversity, Equality & Inclusion

We're building a culture where everyone feels respected, supported and valued. Diversity isn't a tick box for us - it's a strength we actively champion. Whoever you are, you'll be welcomed here and encouraged to thrive.

And that's not all…

We're recognised as a Great Place to Work, and there's a reason for that. Check out our careers page for more information about what it's like to join The Dudley team, who we are, what drives us, and why you should join.