Head of Compliance

TSR Legal; Cardiff; Hybrid; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading legal firm is in search of a Head of Compliance to take charge of its regulatory, risk, and quality framework. This senior strategic position will involve leadership of the Compliance Team, overseeing complaint management, and ensuring compliance with legal standards. The ideal candidate will be a qualified lawyer with significant conveyancing experience and a deep understanding of regulatory frameworks, offering a blend of strategic insight and operational support. Flexible hybrid working is available, alongside a robust benefits package.

Benefits

25 days annual leave + bank holidays

Pension scheme

Structured CPD and specialist compliance training

Supportive working environment

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years PQE in conveyancing.
• 8+ years' experience in conveyancing.
• Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the Compliance Team.
• Oversee complaint handling and PI-related notifications.
• Conduct audits to assess service quality.

Skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Analytical ability

Problem-solving skills

Collaboration ability

Education

Qualified lawyer (CLC/SRA/CILEx)

Job description

Head of Compliance - Leading Multi-Site Conveyancing Business

Locations: Cardiff

Working Pattern: Full-time, Hybrid

Overview

I am working with a respected, multi-location conveyancing organisation that is seeking an experienced Head of Compliance to lead its regulatory, risk and quality framework. This is a senior strategic role with influence across the entire business, supported by an established compliance team.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Oversight

• Lead and develop the Compliance Team, including direct management of the Senior Compliance Officer.
• Oversee complaint handling, Legal Ombudsman escalations, and PI-related notifications, ensuring accurate investigation and reporting.
• Provide coaching, guidance and pragmatic compliance support across the business.
• Deliver workshops, feedback sessions and training to embed a strong compliance culture.

Risk, Quality & Regulatory Management

• Maintain and enhance professional and ethical standards across the business.
• Conduct focused audits and thematic reviews to assess service quality and policy adherence.
• Update compliance MI, identify trends, and recommend improvements.
• Communicate upcoming regulatory and legislative changes, supporting the business in adapting effectively.
• Lead the annual review of the Practice-Wide Risk Assessment and update policies where necessary.

AML & Data Protection

• Act as Deputy MLRO-chair AML committees, guide complex decisions, and step into the MLRO role when required.
• Approve annual AML training content and ensure all staff receive role-appropriate AML training.
• Serve as the organisation's Data Protection Officer, providing guidance and collaborating with group DPO teams.

Stakeholder & External Relationships

• Maintain a professional relationship with the regulatory body and key external partners (e.g., verification providers, Land Registry, lender panel administrators).
• Produce compliance guides, practice pointers and legal updates for internal use.
• Support senior leadership with projects, technology assessments, consultations, and strategic initiatives.

Essential Background

• Qualified lawyer (CLC / SRA / CILEx)
• Minimum 5 years PQE and 8+ years' conveyancing experience
• Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks within conveyancing
• Experienced in leading or influencing compliance functions

Skills & Attributes

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Highly organised, reliable, and proactive
• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability
• Able to work collaboratively with operational and training teams
• Professional, trustworthy and adaptable

Benefits & Conditions

• Hybrid working
• 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
• Pension scheme
• Structured CPD and specialist compliance training
• Supportive, collaborative working environment

If you are an experienced compliance professional or senior conveyancer looking to step into a high-impact leadership role, I would be delighted to discuss this opportunity further. Please get in touch with Hannah at TSR Legal to arrange a confidential conversation.