Head of Compliance

Job Specification: Head of Compliance

Reports to: Managing Director

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

Salary: Competitive, based on experience and qualifications

The company is a fast-growing, dynamic, accountancy and advisory firm working with ambitious SMEs across the UK. We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality service, innovative thinking, and building meaningful relationships - with both our clients and our team. As we continue to scale, were looking for a diligent, experienced and proactive individual to join our team.

Role Overview:

We are looking for a Compliance Officer to join our accountancy practice, an excellent opportunity for a qualified or former accountant who is looking to move into a specialist compliance role. Leveraging your technical knowledge and understanding of practice operations, you'll ensure our firm remains fully compliant with all regulatory and professional standards, shaping our compliance operations by working directly with the Senior Leadership Team and Associate Partners.

This role will suit someone who enjoys detail, regulation, and process, and who wants to play a pivotal role in protecting both the business and our clients, as well as ensuring consistency and best practice across our expanding group.

Key Responsibilities:

Regulatory Oversight

• Monitor compliance with ICAEW, ACCA, HMRC, GDPR, AML and other requirements.
• Act as Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO), managing AML checks and procedures.
• Keep the leadership team up to date on regulatory developments and implications.

Policy & Controls

• Develop and maintain internal compliance policies and risk frameworks.
• Ensure procedures are embedded across the practice and reflect latest requirements.
• Review client onboarding, KYC and engagement processes for compliance.
• Review client money account reconciliations.

Integration of Acquired Offices

• Lead the alignment of newly acquired offices to company's compliance standards and procedures.
• Review inherited processes and policies, identifying gaps and risks.
• Deliver training and support to new teams to embed compliance.

Monitoring & Reporting

• Conduct periodic compliance audits and risk assessments.
• Maintain key registers (AML, breaches, conflicts of interest, data protection).
• Prepare reports for senior management and regulators as required.

Training & Guidance

• Provide compliance support and advice to colleagues across the business.
• Deliver internal training sessions on AML, GDPR, and ethical standards, liaising with our L&D Manager.
• Help instil a strong culture of compliance throughout the practice.

Skills & Attributes:

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or equivalent) with strong practice experience.
• Strong understanding of client engagement, onboarding and technical workflows.
• Keen interest in regulation, governance, and risk management.
• Excellent communication and training skills to support colleagues.
• Meticulous attention to detail with strong organisational abilities.
• Experience in managing change and embedding processes across multiple offices (desirable).