Job Description
Director of Governance & Assurance
North West England (Hybrid – 3 days in office)
I’m currently working on a high-impact leadership role within a well-established, commercially successful business operating in a regulated environment.
This is a Director-level position within the second line of defence, with responsibility for leading the governance and assurance framework and delivering clear, data-driven insight into risk and control effectiveness across the organisation. You’ll lead the 2LOD governance and assurance function, shaping how assurance is delivered and embedding consistent standards across the business. This is a highly visible role, working closely with senior stakeholders and regulators, with real scope to influence and enhance the control environment.
The role:
You’ll be responsible for building and evolving the governance and assurance framework, overseeing QA activity, and ensuring outputs provide meaningful insight into risk exposure and control effectiveness. The role also involves leading a team and driving a consistent, robust approach to monitoring, testing, and reporting.
Key responsibilities include:
* Leading the 2LOD governance and assurance function, managing a team
* Designing and enhancing the assurance framework across the business
* Producing high-quality reporting on risk, trends, and control effectiveness
* Embedding consistent standards for controls, policies, and risk categorisation
* Overseeing QA activity and ensuring a robust approach to monitoring and testing
* Providing effective oversight and challenge to 1LOD activity
* Using data and MI to identify trends, gaps, and areas for improvement
* Supporting audit activity and regulatory engagement
* Partnering with senior stakeholders to drive improvements in governance and controls
About you:
* Senior governance, assurance, or controls professional within a regulated environment
* Strong 2LOD experience
* Deep understanding of risk frameworks, controls, and assurance methodologies
* Experience building or enhancing governance and reporting frameworks
* Highly analytical and data-driven, with the ability to translate complex information into clear insight
* Strong judgement and ability to apply risk-based approaches
* Confident communicator, comfortable presenting and challenging at senior level
* Experience managing and developing teams
* Background in any regulated sector (not sector-specific)
This is a great opportunity for someone looking to step into a broad, strategic leadership role in a business that offers both stability and the ability to make a genuine impact. There is a strong collaborative culture, alongside an excellent salary and bonus package.
Apply via LinkedIn or send your CV directly to thinchliffe@kgglobal.co.uk