Governance Manager

  • Hays
  • Stoke-on-trent, Staffordshire
  • Jan 13, 2026
Full time Administration

Job Description

The Int Governance Manager role in Stoke on Trent offers strategic governance leadership and expert regulation

Governance ManagerFixed term contract between 6-12 monthsSalary equivalent to £60,000-£65,000North StaffordshireRemote role with occasional travel to the office for meetings
Your new companyYou will be joining a well established organisation undergoing an important period of governance strengthening and regulatory alignment. As Interim Governance Manager, you will play a critical role in supporting senior leadership, ensuring robust governance frameworks, and driving continuous improvement across compliance, assurance, and corporate policy functions. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced governance professional to make a significant impact in a values led, forward thinking environment during a period of transition.
Your new roleAs the Interim Governance Manager, you will lead the delivery of comprehensive governance services and Executive PA support, ensuring full compliance with statutory, regulatory, and legal obligations. Your key responsibilities will include:

  • Developing, reviewing, and embedding governance, regulatory and compliance frameworks.
  • Providing expert advice to the Executive, Board, and Committees on governance, regulation, risk and assurance.
  • Leading on the organisation's risk and assurance management framework, including the oversight of business continuity and crisis management planning.
  • Ensuring timely and accurate submission of all statutory and regulatory returns.
  • Managing the preparation, distribution and quality of Board and Committee papers, registers, minutes and governance records.
  • Driving continuous improvement, modernised governance processes, and best practice.
  • Overseeing corporate policy frameworks and ensuring alignment with legal and regulatory standards.
  • Managing relationships with external legal advisers to ensure effective third party assurance.
  • Leading, motivating and developing the Governance and Executive PA team to maintain consistently high standards of service.
  • Chairing key internal groups and contributing to strategic initiatives, planning, audit recommendations and performance reporting.

  • This interim assignment requires someone who can quickly step in, add value immediately, and support effective decision making at senior levels.

What you'll need to succeedTo be successful in this role, you will need:
  • A degree level qualification (or equivalent through relevant experience).
  • Professional qualification with the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators (ICSA) or an equivalent governance qualification (desirable but highly advantageous).
  • Significant experience in delivering governance services at a senior level.
  • Strong knowledge of governance best practice, company law, and regulatory environments.
  • Experience working with Boards, Committees and senior stakeholders, including Board development.
  • Proven experience in risk management frameworks, policy governance and corporate compliance.
  • Experience in social housing or a related highly regulated sector (desirable but beneficial).
  • Strong leadership abilities, with experience managing and motivating teams.
  • Excellent communication, influencing and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to produce and present complex governance reports and documentation to senior audiences.
  • High levels of organisation, flexibility, and the ability to manage competing priorities.
  • Self motivation and the ability to work independently with confidence and initiative.


What you'll get in returnIn return, you will benefit from:
  • The opportunity to lead a high impact governance function during a crucial period.
  • Strategic exposure working closely with Board members, senior leaders and executive stakeholders.
  • A supportive and collaborative working environment.
  • Flexible working arrangements depending on assignment needs.
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