Head of Controls Assurance

• Fast growing Global Organisation
• Head of Controls & Assurance
• Hybrid working in South Manchester

My Client, a fast-growing global organisation is strengthening the strategic foundations that allow it to expand responsibly, sustainably and with clarity. To support that evolution, we’re searching for an experienced, commercially-minded Head of Controls & Assurance to join the Strategy & Governance Leadership Team and shape a modern second-line function from the inside.

This is a role for someone who sees assurance differently — not as a brake, but as a catalyst. Someone who understands that strong governance doesn’t slow a business down; it gives it the freedom to move faster.

You’ll lead the development and delivery of the organisation’s Controls Assurance & Compliance framework, providing independent oversight across a diverse, international operation. You’ll define a risk-based assurance strategy that highlights where to focus, what to improve, and how to strengthen the controls that protect customers, partners and people.

Working closely with senior leaders, you’ll bring constructive challenge, clarity and insight. You’ll evaluate controls, identify weaknesses, and turn evidence into stories that influence decision-making at the highest level. You’ll help embed a culture where compliance is understood, owned and valued — not because it’s required, but because it’s smart.

This is a highly visible leadership role. A chance to build something that matters — a second-line function that scales with the business, supports innovation, and ensures growth happens with confidence.

You’ll be a credible assurance, audit or compliance leader with the ability to influence senior stakeholders and balance commercial objectives with effective governance and risk management. You'll bring:

• Professional qualification such as ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIA, CIIA, CISA or equivalent
• Significant experience in assurance, compliance, audit, risk management or internal controls leadership roles
• Strong commercial, financial, audit or risk management background
• Proven experience designing and implementing governance, compliance and control frameworks
• Strong understanding of compliance standards, regulatory requirements and risk-based assurance methodologies
• Knowledge of GDPR, PCI DSS, CCPA and broader governance and compliance frameworks
• Experience working with technology-enabled businesses and understanding the interaction between business processes and IT systems