Job Specification
Role Title: Head of Risk and Controls Oversight, Europe
Location: Vanguard Europe (London)
Function: 2nd Line of Defence – Risks and Controls
Role Purpose
The Head of Risk and Controls Oversight, Europe will support the design and implementation of a consistent European-business-wide controls framework, the building of a centralised risk and control inventory, and shape the future Target Operating Model of the programme, aligned to Vanguard global risk and controls standards. Once the framework is established and embedded in business-as-usual, the Head of Risk and Controls Oversight, Europe will continue to provide subject matter expertise and leadership across Vanguard Europe to strengthen the risk and control environment, drive effective 2LOD assurance, and ensure consistent practices across business divisions.
Key Responsibilities
1. Lead the design and implementation of a consistent European business-wide controls framework, including ensuring alignment with the enterprise risk management framework
2. Support the building of a centralised risk and control inventory in Vanguard’s GRC tool, establishing European standards for risks and controls, aligned to Vanguard’s global standards
3. Shape the future Target Operating Model of the programme, aligned to Vanguard’s global risk and controls standards.
4. Collaborate with first line stakeholders to develop, review, and oversee delivery of indicative controls testing plans, reporting on timely and effective execution.
5. Provide training and oversight for embedded first line control testers across Vanguard Europe’s business divisions, providing feedback to first line managers and heads of business.
6. Own the second line controls assurance plan of work and oversee activities by second line controls testers.
7. Coordinate production of governance and reporting on control effectiveness, providing senior stakeholders with clear visibility of control testing results and assurance outcomes.
8. Stay abreast of regulatory developments and industry best practice in risk and control and controls testing, ensuring alignment and proactive adaptation of the framework.
9. Drive a culture of continuous improvement, identifying opportunities to strengthen controls, simplify processes, and enhance efficiency including use of automation where appropriate.
Experience & Qualifications
10. Strong risk controls related experience, with experience in operational risk controls (control design, testing or assurance).
11. Recognised SME in controls, with strong knowledge of emerging practices, regulatory expectations, and frameworks.
12. Strong understanding of enterprise risk management frameworks (particularly non-financial risk) and relevant financial services regulations.
13. Experience within asset management or financial services, with strong knowledge of business processes and operating models.
14. Proven track record of delivering large-scale control transformation and improvement programmes, including change management and embedding sustainable practices.
15. Demonstrable experience managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced and ambiguous environment.
Skills & Competencies
16. Excellent leadership, coordination, and influencing skills across a matrixed organisation.
17. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a pragmatic, delivery focused mindset.
18. High-level written and verbal communication skills, capable of engaging stakeholders at all levels, from business teams to senior leadership.
19. Ability to coach and upskill colleagues, fostering capability uplift across the first line of defence.
How We Work
Vanguard has implemented a hybrid working model for the majority of our crew members, designed to capture the benefits of enhanced flexibility while enabling in-person learning, collaboration, and connection. We believe our mission-driven and highly collaborative culture is a critical enabler to support long-term client outcomes and enrich the employee experience.