Manchester - Head of Compliance - Regional Law Firm

Head of Risk & Compliance

Location: Hybrid, Altrincham

An exceptional opportunity has arisen for an experienced and motivated professional to take on the pivotal role of Head of Risk & Compliance. This position also includes responsibilities as the firm's Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO).

About the Role

As Head of Risk & Compliance, you will play a key role in ensuring the firm's adherence to legal and regulatory standards while maintaining a robust risk management framework. This is a high-impact position with responsibilities that include:

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, implement, and oversee the firm’s compliance framework in line with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) Standards and Regulations.
• Act as a trusted advisor to the COLP and Board on compliance matters.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory changes to ensure the firm remains compliant with evolving requirements.
• Maintain and update the firm’s risk registers and conduct regular internal audits and risk assessments.
• Manage the complaints process, liaising with the Legal Ombudsman and SRA as required.
• Oversee AML compliance, including client due diligence (CDD), AML risk assessments, and Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs).
• Provide comprehensive guidance and training to staff on compliance and AML obligations.
• Investigate and resolve compliance breaches, ensuring timely remediation and reporting.
• Prepare and present detailed compliance and risk management reports to the COLP and Board.
• Act as the primary contact for regulatory bodies, including the SRA and NCA.
• Foster a culture of ethical practice and compliance across the firm through innovative training and development programs.

Who We Are Looking ForThe ideal candidate will be a highly capable, confident professional with a strong background in compliance and risk management. Essential qualifications and skills include:

• Degree-level education with significant experience in a compliance role within a professional services environment, ideally a law firm.
• Extensive knowledge of SRA Standards and Regulations, AML legislation, and relevant regulatory frameworks.
• Strong analytical abilities and sharp attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage with stakeholders at all levels and deliver effective firmwide training.
• Entrepreneurial spirit with a drive to foster positive change.
• High levels of personal and professional integrity.

Why Joi?

This role offers more than just career progression—it’s an opportunity to shape and influence the firm’s compliance culture. Benefits include:

• Generous annual leave, including a day off on your birthday.
• Private healthcare and a discretionary bonus scheme.
• Flexible working hours and a supportive smart working environment.
• Health and wellbeing contributions.
• Regular social events, milestone awards, and a volunteer day.
• Technical and professional learning and development opportunities.
• Genuine commitment to work-life balance.

All applications will be handled confidentially. We welcome candidates from diverse backgrounds who share a passion for fostering a strong culture of compliance and risk management.