Head of Risk & Compliance – Retail Bank

Overview

As Head of Risk and Compliance for a new London-based challenger retail bank, you lead the risk and compliance function to safeguard operations and strategy. You will serve as the first line of defence, ensuring FCA-aligned governance and controls as the bank launches deposits and loans. You’ll work closely with cross-functional partners, shaping the regulatory posture of a growth-focused bank that serves the Caribbean community. This is a strategic, hands-on leadership role at a small UK bank with significant impact.

Responsibilities

• Lead the risk and compliance function for a small UK bank
• Advise on regulatory strategy and governance to protect the bank’s operations
• Act as first line of defence to safeguard the bank and its strategy
• Ensure adherence to FCA rules and regulations
• Collaborate with stakeholders to embed risk-aware decision making
• Support launch of deposit and loan products with compliant processes
• Drive problem solving and effective communication under pressure

Key requirements

• 5 to 10 years of proven experience heading risk and compliance in a small UK bank
• Strong understanding of FCA rules and regulatory environment
• Experience with risk management and governance in retail banking
• Ability to advise senior leadership and maintain clear communication
• Demonstrated problem solving, analytical skills, numeracy and diplomacy

• Problem solving
• Analytical skills
• Communication
• FCA regulatory knowledge
• Risk and compliance management
• First line of defence governance

…