Head of Compliance (SMF16) - Pensions

JR United Kingdom; Swindon; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading compliance consultancy is seeking a Head of Compliance (SMF16) based in Swindon. You will be the first Compliance hire, focusing on creating a compliant infrastructure for a new pensions platform. This role offers flexible working arrangements—remote, office, or hybrid—and involves managing FCA interactions while guiding the business on regulatory compliance. Ideal candidates will have extensive pensions knowledge and strong communication skills.

Benefits

Flexible working policy

Opportunity to build a team

Qualifications

• Experienced Compliance leader with SMF16 accreditation.
• Deep pensions knowledge, preferably in personal pensions or SIPPs.
• Strong track record in engaging with FCA.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of compliance frameworks.
• Manage regulatory interactions with the FCA.
• Provide regulatory guidance across business units.

Skills

Pensions compliance

FCA engagement

Regulatory framework design

Communication

CASS compliance

Job description

Head of Compliance (SMF16) - Pensions, Swindon, Wiltshire

Client:

Willow Resourcing Limited

Location:

Swindon, Wiltshire, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

EU work permit required:

Yes

Job Views:

2

Posted:

22.08.2025

Expiry Date:

06.10.2025

Job Description:

Head of Compliance (SMF16)

Pensions Platform

Looking for greater flexibility to work from home, or anywhere in the world?

Or perhaps you’re keen to help build a business from the ground-up, with Compliance at its heart?

This next-generation pension technology platform will provide execution and custody services to financial advisors across the UK. Backed by one of the world’s leading FinTech VC funds, this business aims to transform the infrastructure powering financial advice.

They have a flexible working policy: you can work remotely, go into the office, or choose a hybrid arrangement, tailored to your circumstances.

You’ll be the firm’s first Compliance hire as they seek FCA authorization, assisting in the process.

Before going live, you’ll leverage your pensions compliance experience to work closely with developers, ensuring all back-office systems and processes are regulatory compliant and fit for purpose.

This role is initially standalone but has the potential to evolve into building your own team. You’ll serve as the firm’s SMF16, ensuring ongoing compliance with FCA rules and regulations, and act as the main contact with the FCA, managing regulatory interactions and submissions.

You’ll lead the design, implementation, and monitoring of compliance frameworks, policies, and procedures, with a focus on pensions and CASS compliance.

You’ll provide regulatory guidance across business units, including new product launches, client operations, and marketing, and advise the Board on regulatory developments and their impact on business strategy.

Ideal candidates will be experienced Compliance leaders with SMF16 accreditation, deep pensions knowledge (preferably personal pensions, SIPPs, etc.), and a strong FCA engagement track record. CASS experience is a plus.

This role suits a direct communicator who is confident challenging leadership when necessary.

If interested, click apply and send your CV. If you don’t have an updated CV, contact Mark at 0121 274 0357 or email at [emailprotected] for a confidential discussion. We’ll take it from there.