Head of Compliance and Risk (UK)

About This Opportunity

We are representing a fast-growing digital insurance platform with operations across Southeast Asia that is entering the UK market. Our client is seeking a Head of Compliance and Risk to lead regulatory strategy, risk governance, and compliance operations as they establish and scale their UK presence.

This is a true build role—you will be creating compliance frameworks, policies, and controls from the ground up rather than inheriting an existing function. The successful candidate is expected to hold the SMF16 (Compliance Oversight) Senior Management Function once approved and will serve as the primary point of contact with the FCA.

This position reports directly to the CEO and offers the opportunity to shape compliance infrastructure for a company bringing digital financial services innovation to the UK market.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement compliance frameworks aligned with UK regulatory requirements, particularly FCA standards
• Lead regulatory readiness for market entry, licensing applications, and ongoing supervision
• Serve as the primary regulatory contact with the FCA and other relevant UK bodies
• Build comprehensive policies and controls covering AML, KYC, data privacy, consumer duty, distribution, and claims-related compliance
• Conduct risk assessments and implement remediation plans for identified gaps
• Establish monitoring, testing, and reporting processes for ongoing compliance operations
• Embed fairness, transparency, and responsible practices throughout the organisation
• Oversee product compliance, marketing reviews, pricing governance, and distribution oversight
• Implement complaint handling frameworks aligned with regulatory standards
• Partner with product, operations, legal, marketing, and commercial teams to ensure compliant execution
• Provide guidance on regulatory implications of new products, partnerships, and distribution models
• Deliver training to ensure teams understand and execute compliance responsibilities

What We're Looking For

Essential qualifications and experience:

• 8+ years of compliance, risk, or regulatory experience within financial services, insurance, insurtech, or fintech
• Deep understanding of UK regulatory frameworks, including FCA rules and consumer duty requirements
• Proven ability to design policies, conduct risk assessments, and manage complex compliance programmes
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, including experience dealing with regulators
• High integrity, sound judgment, and strong attention to detail
• Ability to see compliance as a strategic enabler rather than a blocker
• Experience building frameworks and scaling systems in early-stage to mature environments
• Comfort operating in fast-paced, evolving settings where regulation meets innovation

Highly valued additional experience:

• Compliance experience in digital platforms, distribution, or insurance products
• Start-up or high-growth environment experience
• Previous SMF experience
• Background in insurtech, digital distribution, or online marketplaces
• Knowledge of GDPR, AML, sanctions, or cross-border compliance

Location: United Kingdom. This is a hybrid role requiring presence in the London office at least 3 days per week.

How We Work with You

Get A Job.ai is managing this search on behalf of our client. When you apply through our platform at getajob.ai, a member of our talent team will review your application and arrange an initial screening call with qualified candidates. We will then present shortlisted candidates to our client for consideration. Please do not contact the employer directly—all applications must come through Get A Job.ai to be considered.

Pay

Our client offers a highly competitive compensation package ranging from £100,000 to £150,000, reflecting both experience and suitability for this pivotal role. This position also includes long-term growth opportunities and potential international career progression.

Get A Job.ai is an equal opportunity recruiter. We work with clients and candidates from all backgrounds and are committed to inclusive hiring practices.