Head of Governance & Assurance

Irwell Valley Homes; Manchester; On-site; GBP 74,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent social housing organization in Manchester is seeking a Head of Governance & Assurance to drive their governance and risk strategy. This strategic position involves acting as a key advisor to the Board and leading all regulatory compliance efforts. Ideal candidates will possess strong leadership skills and a proven background in governance frameworks. The role offers a competitive salary and an opportunity to shape the organization's approach to governance.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in a strategic role, preferably within social housing.
• Deep understanding of governance frameworks.
• Passion for influencing at the highest level.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of governance, risk, and assurance strategy.
• Act as the primary advisor to the Board and senior leadership.
• Oversee regulatory compliance and lead audit activities.
• Manage strategic direction of risk and data protection functions.

Skills

Leadership

Governance frameworks

Regulatory compliance

Risk management

Job description

Overview

Head of Governance & Assurance

We are looking for a dynamic and high-impact individual to lead our governance, risk and assurance function. You will be a key advisor to our Board and Executive Team, responsible for driving our strategy, fostering a culture of trust and resilience, and ensuring we are always ready for what's next. This is your chance to architect our governance framework, lead on all regulatory matters, and serve as our named Data Protection Officer. You will be an expert in your field, passionate about embedding best practice and ensuring our operations are robust, transparent, and resilient.

• Salary: £74,000 per annum + car allowance of 7.5%
• Location: Manchester, Greater Manchester
• Contract Type: Permanent, Full Time
• Hours: 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Agile Working.
• Closing Date: 5th October 2025
• Interview Date: 17th October 2025

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of our governance, risk, and assurance strategy.
• Act as the primary advisor to the Board and senior leadership.
• Oversee our regulatory compliance and lead all audit and inspection activities.
• Manage the strategic direction of risk, data protection, and procurement functions.

Qualifications

• You are a seasoned leader with a proven track record in a similar strategic role, ideally within the social housing sector. You have a deep understanding of governance frameworks and a passion for influencing at the highest level.