Head of Compliance

Delighted to be partnering with our Peterborough based client to recruit an experienced and commercially minded Head of Compliance to lead and develop the businesses compliance function. This is a key leadership role, combining strategic oversight with hands-on delivery, ensuring the business meets its regulatory, legal and professional obligations while supporting continued growth.

This position is full-time permanent with office presence 3-4 days per week.

The right candidate will be a confident and credible leader who can combine technical expertise with commercial awareness-ensuring compliance supports the businesses success. You will be responsible for maintaining a robust compliance framework, providing clear and practical advice to the Board, key stakeholders and staff, and ensuring day-to-day compliance activity is delivered consistently and effectively.

You'll play a central role in promoting a strong culture of compliance, risk awareness and client protection-balancing regulatory rigour with pragmatic, business-focused decision making.

Key Deliverables:

• Regulatory & Governance: Oversee compliance with SRA Standards & Regulations, Accounts Rules and wider obligations; support the Board and COFA; act as COLP, MLRO and/or DPO if required.
• AML & Financial Crime: Lead AML framework, risk assessments, due diligence processes and firm-wide training.
• Data Protection: Manage GDPR compliance, data breach responses and information governance controls.
• Audit & Quality Assurance: Deliver a risk-based file audit programme, identify trends and drive continuous improvement.
• Client Care & Conduct: Oversee complaints handling, conflicts, professional conduct and client protection priorities.
• Policy & Training: Develop policies, deliver training and embed compliance into firm systems and processes.
• Risk Management: Maintain risk registers, identify emerging risks and provide clear Board-level reporting.
• Leadership: Lead and develop the compliance team, building strong relationships across the firm and promoting best practice.

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Proven experience in compliance, risk or regulatory management within a legal or professional services environment
• Strong working knowledge of SRA Standards & Regulations, SRA Accounts Rules, AML, data protection and professional conduct obligations
• Experience in file auditing, compliance monitoring and breach management
• Track record of advising partners, senior leaders and fee earners on compliance and risk matters
• Ability to produce clear, concise reports for senior management and Board-level audiences
• Experience developing policies, procedures, training programmes and risk-based controls
• Practical understanding of law firm operations, including client onboarding, matter management, supervision, billing and file closure

• Previous experience in a Head of Compliance, Compliance Manager, COLP, MLRO or DPO role
• Experience within an FCA-regulated environment
• Experience managing regulatory visits, external audits or insurer reviews
• Involvement in change initiatives or process improvement projects
• Relevant qualifications in compliance, AML, risk, legal or data protection