Howdens, the UK’s leading trade kitchen supplier, is looking for an experienced and influential Head of Compliance to shape strategy and oversee a compliance function spanning audit and security across our 850+ UK and ROI trade depots. This field‑based role will involve extensive travel to sites and offices across the country.
As Head of Compliance, you will work closely with the Managing Director and the Senior Leadership Team within Trade to ensure that recommendations from compliance reviews and investigations are implemented effectively. Reporting to the Finance Director, you will maintain robust policies and procedures in line with current legislation, coordinate with other support functions, and ensure rapid integration of any changes in trade risk profiles or working practices into compliance systems.
What You’ll Be Doing As Head Of Compliance
* Lead the Compliance team, setting clear direction, objectives, and targets; manage field‑based staff and maintain effective communication channels.
* Implement a strategy for the ongoing development of compliance and security structures to support legal compliance and risk management within Trade.
* Integrate AI tools to enhance investigative capabilities, streamline monitoring, and support data‑driven decision making.
* Allocate resources for audits, investigations, and projects, balancing priorities from management requests, whistleblowing reports, and financial analysis.
* Maintain communication of key consolidated findings and recommendations to Senior Group and Operational Management; provide bi‑annual reporting to the Audit Committee and present findings.
* Advise senior executives on current and potential legislative changes and ensure these are incorporated into compliance audits.
* Provide comprehensive contract management and oversight of physical security measures for the Trade business, including alarm systems, monitoring, maintenance services, key‑holding responsibilities, and invoice payment.
* Conduct regular risk reviews for each region to identify potential risks and incorporate feedback from unsuccessful audits and ongoing improvement efforts.
* Act as FSC/PEFC Chain of Custody Manager for depots, ensuring compliance involvement supports the attainment of the annual Soil Association audit.
What you’ll need to bring as Head of Compliance
* Proven ability to lead and motivate compliance and audit teams, including managing field‑based staff and maintaining effective communication.
* Multi‑site industry experience, preferably in wholesale, retail, hospitality, or similar environments.
* Strategic thinking to develop and implement compliance and security frameworks that support legal compliance and risk management.
* Expertise in risk management, loss prevention, internal audits, and investigations, and the ability to prioritise resources based on risk profiles and business needs.
* Strong analytical and data‑driven decision‑making skills, with experience integrating technology and AI tools to enhance compliance processes.
* In‑depth knowledge of UK & ROI legislation and the ability to advise senior executives and incorporate regulatory changes into compliance audits.
* Experience in contract management and oversight of physical security measures, including alarm systems, monitoring services, and key‑holding.
* Ability to prepare and present reports to senior leadership and audit committees, communicating findings and recommendations clearly.
* Familiarity with FSC/PEFC Chain of Custody certification and sustainability audits, supporting compliance with environmental standards.
* Exceptional stakeholder management and influencing skills, building strong relationships across multiple functions.
About Howdens
As the UK’s leading trade kitchen supplier, Howdens proudly supports over 460,000 trade professionals through our network of 850+ depots. As a constituent of the FTSE 100 with sales of £2.3 billion last year, we continue to expand, offering exciting opportunities for growth in a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment.
What We Can Offer You As Head of Compliance
* Competitive salary and company performance‑related annual bonus
* Company car or annual car allowance
* Private healthcare for you and your family
* Excellent pension scheme (company contribution of up to 12%)
* 25 days holiday + bank holidays per year, with the opportunity to buy extra holidays
* Share save scheme
* Exceptional reward and recognition events
How to apply
If Howdens sounds like the kind of place where you can build and develop your career as Head of Compliance, we’re keen to hear from you. When you apply, you will need to attach a CV. Good luck with your application.
Howdens is founded on the principle of being Worthwhile for ALL concerned. We’re working hard to ensure we provide an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. We will do everything we can to support you during your application. If you need us to make any adjustments to our recruitment process, please email recruitmentteam@howdens.com with the job title and location, and we will be happy to help you.
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