Head of Compliance | SMF16 & SMF17 | Leadership Role
McFall Recruitment is partnering with a high-growth, forward-thinking firm to appoint a Head of Compliance - a pivotal leadership hire reporting directly to the Chief Risk & Compliance Officer.
This is a high-impact role at the heart of the business, offering the opportunity to shape and lead a proactive, future-focused compliance framework while operating at senior leadership level.
You’ll hold SMF16 (Compliance Oversight) and SMF17 (MLRO), with a structured and supportive handover in place.
This role blends strategic leadership with hands-on oversight, giving you full ownership across compliance, financial crime, and regulatory engagement.
You’ll play a key role in ensuring the business not only meets its regulatory obligations but stays ahead of them.
Compliance Leadership
* Own and evolve the firm’s Compliance Framework and regulatory mapping
* Lead FCA engagement, submissions, and reporting
* Oversee policy development and compliance monitoring
* Provide clear regulatory guidance and escalation support
* Take ownership of AML & financial crime, including MLRO responsibilities
* Partner closely with Risk to ensure aligned oversight
Legal Oversight
* Provide pragmatic legal guidance across the business
* Manage external counsel on complex or high-risk matters
* Review key documentation (client agreements, contracts, NDAs)
* Identify and escalate legal risks effectively
Regulatory, Governance & Training
* Build strong, credible relationships with regulators
* Support clients on regulatory matters
* Oversee governance and company secretarial responsibilities
* Deliver high-quality committee reporting and compliance MI
* Lead and embed compliance training across the organisation
Leadership
* Lead, develop, and scale the Compliance function
* Build a high-performing, delivery-focused team
* Set clear objectives and drive accountability
* Navigate complexity and influence at senior level
What We’re Looking For
* Proven experience operating at Head of Compliance / Senior Compliance leadership level
* Strong working knowledge of FCA regulation and expectations
* Experience holding or stepping into SMF16 and/or SMF17
* A commercial, pragmatic mindset with the ability to influence stakeholders
* A leader who can balance strategy with execution