Head of Governance and Compliance

University of Suffolk Dental CIC; Ipswich; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 59,000; Part time

Job summary

An educational institution is seeking a Head of Governance & Compliance in Ipswich. This role involves leading governance frameworks and ensuring regulatory compliance across the board. The ideal candidate will have robust experience in governance and excellent communication skills. Enjoy an inclusive workplace with generous benefits and competitive salary. Closing date for applications is 17 September 2025.

Benefits

Generous annual leave

Birthday leave

Flexible working

Competitive pension scheme

Staff discounts

Fitness membership discounts

Learning and development opportunities

Cycle to Work scheme

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Experience in governance, legal, or regulatory compliance roles.
• Strong communication skills.
• Thorough understanding of corporate governance, data protection, and regulatory frameworks.
• Ability to balance strategic thinking with operational delivery.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of the governance framework.
• Provide strategic advice and support to senior leadership and the Board.
• Oversee regulatory compliance and serve as Data Protection Officer.
• Manage teams within the Vice-Chancellor's Office and Data Governance.

Skills

Experience in governance, legal, or regulatory compliance roles

Strong communication skills

Understanding of corporate governance, data protection, and regulatory frameworks

Strategic thinking with operational delivery

Job description

Overview

Permanent, part time, 30 hours per week (0.81 FTE, flexibility on how these hours are worked)

Band 7 - £50,253 to £58,226 per annum, pro rata

About the post

We are looking for a highly motivated and detail orientated person to join us as Head of Governance & Compliance, a key role with responsibility for governance, legal affairs, and regulatory compliance assurance across the University.

Accountable to the Chief Operating and Transformation Officer (COTO) and the Chair of the Board of Directors, you will lead on the development, implementation, and monitoring of our governance framework, policies, and compliance programs. You will provide strategic advice and support to senior leadership and Board, ensuring that the University maintains the highest levels of governance, and consistently meets regulatory requirements, internal standards, and industry best practices. In addition, you will serve as Secretary to the Board of University of Suffolk, the Dental CIC, and other committees as appropriate.

As the University\'s Data Protection Officer, you will also oversee regulatory compliance across a diverse range of activities, providing leadership and assurance in areas critical to the University\'s reputation and performance. Working collaboratively across teams, you will foster a culture of accountability and compliance while delivering practical solutions to complex challenges.

You will also provide leadership and management of staff within the Vice-Chancellor\'s Office and the Data Governance team, ensuring excellence in service delivery and a commitment to continuous improvement.

About you

We are looking for someone who can bring:

• Experience in governance, legal, or regulatory compliance roles.
• Strong communication skills.
• A thorough understanding of corporate governance, data protection, and regulatory frameworks.
• The ability to balance strategic thinking with operational delivery.

This is an exciting opportunity to make meaningful impact on the University\'s future. You will play a central role in building a culture of integrity and accountability, helping us achieve our strategic objectives while upholding the highest standards of governance. We offer a supportive, inclusive, and dynamic workplace where your expertise will be valued, and your professional growth nurtured.

Benefits

• Generous annual leave entitlement of 25 days for Bands 1-4 and 30 days for Bands 5 and above, plus 8 bank holidays and any university closure days.
• Enjoy an extra day of paid leave on your birthday, subject to qualifying/service conditions.
• Flexible working, including family friendly policies.
• Competitive workplace pension scheme (USS) - with an employer contribution rate of 14.5%, tax relief on contributions and life cover.
• Staff discounts at a number of local amenities in Ipswich.
• Discounted membership at various Ipswich Fit sites: unlimited access to gyms, swimming lanes, fitness classes and discounted racket sports; plus discounted membership at Adastral Park Leisure and Sports.
• Access to a range of high-quality learning and development opportunities
• Discounted rates for staff approved to study a UoS undergraduate or postgraduate course, subject to a set of criteria and conditions.
• Cycle to Work scheme.
• Electric vehicle salary sacrifice.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
• Staff recognition annual awards.

Closing Date

Closing Date: Wednesday 17 September 2025, 5pm

Contact and guidance

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact: [e-mail]

Please see the Job Application Guidance to support your application.

Notes

Please note:

We recommend that you apply as soon as possible, even if the closing date is in the future.

Applications received may be reviewed before the closing date and should we receive a high number of applications for this post, or high-quality applications which demonstrate suitability, we reserve the right to close the vacancy early. We may hold interviews as and when applications are received, and we reserve the right to offer to a candidate prior to the closing date.

We are a values driven organisation, committed to ensuring we remain a beacon for aspiration and achievement, while providing a great environment to work and study. We are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community and we encourage applications from under-represented groups.