Exclusive Assignment
Director – Conduct & Compliance
c.£150,000 + Bonus + Benefits
📍 Manchester | 💼 Full-Time | 📊 SMF 16 & 17 (Approved Role)
Reporting to: Chief Risk Officer
Department: Risk & Compliance
Are you a strategic compliance leader with deep expertise in consumer lending? Ready to shape the culture and risk agenda of a growing UK bank? A dynamic and customer-focused financial services provider is seeking a confident, collaborative, and forward-thinking Director – Conduct & Compliance to join its Risk & Compliance leadership team.
About the Role
This senior leadership role leads the second line of defence for all compliance, conduct, and financial crime risk matters. You’ll be responsible for oversight and challenge, ensuring regulatory obligations are met and risk appetite is maintained. The role also includes acting as the Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) and holding SMF 16 & 17 responsibilities under the Senior Managers and Certification Regime (SMCR).
You'll sit on key executive committees, report directly to the Chief Risk Officer, and collaborate closely with senior leaders across the organisation.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and develop the Compliance team, setting the strategy and culture for conduct and compliance risk.
* Maintain and evolve risk frameworks, policies, and procedures aligned to FCA expectations and business objectives.
* Monitor and escalate emerging risks, ensuring readiness for regulatory developments.
* Manage relationships with key regulatory bodies and lead thematic reviews.
* Oversee financial crime risk management, including AML, sanctions, bribery, and fraud prevention.
* Support external reporting and enhance internal decision-making with insight-led compliance metrics.
What We’re Looking For
* Extensive experience in senior compliance and financial crime roles within regulated financial services—consumer and/or commercial lending experience is highly desirable.
* Track record of managing regulator engagement and driving regulatory change.
* Previously held an SMF16 or 17 role
* Strategic mindset with the ability to apply risk-based, proportionate solutions.
* Strong stakeholder engagement and leadership skills with the ability to challenge and influence at all levels.
* Committed to upholding ethical standards and promoting a culture of good conduct.