Head of Governance & Compliance

Motor Neurone Disease Association; United Kingdom; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A charitable organization in the UK is seeking a Head of Governance and Compliance to enhance its governance framework. This influential senior role demands the ability to translate complex governance requirements into effective solutions. Ideal candidates will have significant experience leading a governance function, strong skills in risk management, and a degree-level education. The position offers a hybrid working model with competitive benefits including generous holiday, health care access, and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

28 days holiday, increasing to 33 days after 5 years

Access to UK Healthcare

24/7 GP access

Life assurance

Salary sacrifice schemes

Enhanced pension scheme

Training and personal development opportunities

Qualifications

• Significant experience in a governance leadership role, preferably in a charity or membership organisation.
• Experience working with Boards and senior leadership on confidential matters.
• Ongoing professional development in corporate governance.

Responsibilities

• Develop governance frameworks aligned with guidelines and legislation.
• Advise Board of Trustees on governance and compliance issues.
• Ensure statutory and regulatory compliance.
• Lead internal audit processes and manage risk framework.

Skills

Governance frameworks

Risk management

Compliance

Stakeholder engagement

Report writing

Education

Degree level education or equivalent

Job description

Overview

We are seeking an experienced Head of Governance and Compliance to lead and strengthen our governance framework, both strategically and operationally.

This is a senior, influential role with responsibility for corporate governance, Board effectiveness, risk management, compliance and regulatory assurance. You will bring sound judgement, credibility and the ability to translate governance requirements into practical, proportionate solutions that enable confident decision-making.

Working closely with the Chair, Board of Trustees, Chief Executive and Executive Leadership Team, you will ensure the MND Association has the structures, policies and ways of working needed to operate with clarity, accountability and confidence.

Hybrid working: based from our London office, with attendance one day per week across either London or Northampton.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain robust governance frameworks aligned with the Charity Commission’s guidelines and relevant legislation.
• Provide strategic advice and guidance to the Board of Trustees and senior leadership on governance, compliance, and risk management matters.
• Ensure compliance with all statutory and regulatory requirements, including data protection, safeguarding, and financial controls.
• Lead internal audit and assurance processes, coordinating with external auditors and regulators as necessary.
• Manage the organisation’s risk management framework, identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks effectively.
• Prepare and present clear and comprehensive governance reports and compliance updates to trustees and senior management.
• Promote a culture of integrity, transparency, and continuous improvement throughout the organisation.
• Collaborate closely with legal advisors, finance, and other departments to ensure cohesive governance and compliance practices.
• Stay abreast of changes in legislation, regulatory standards, and best practices affecting the charity sector.

About You

• Substantial experience leading a governance function, ideally within a charity or membership organisation.
• Proven experience working with Boards, Trustees and senior leaders, handling confidential matters.
• Degree level education or equivalent, with ongoing professional development in corporate governance.
• Strong expertise in governance frameworks, policy development, risk and compliance.
• Confident presenting complex governance and compliance issues at Board level.
• Excellent report writing, communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

What we Offer

• 28 days holiday, increasing to 33 days after 5 years, plus Bank Holidays.
• Access to UK Healthcare, including dental, eyecare, health screenings, and therapies.
• 24/7 GP access via phone and video.
• Life assurance and confidential counselling helplines.
• Salary sacrifice schemes (Cycle to Work, Buy/Sell Annual Leave).
• Access to Benefit Hub for discounts on everyday shopping.
• Enhanced pension scheme.
• Opportunities for training and personal development.
• Hybrid working.

About Us

Motor Neurone Disease moves fast. It takes away time, it takes away independence and it has no cure. Every day we support people affected by MND. We fund ground-breaking research. We campaign for better care. We’re here for everyone who needs us. Because with MND, every day matters.

We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We work to remove barriers for everyone affected by MND, employees, volunteers, and stakeholders.

As part of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee interviews for disabled applicants who meet the role's requirements.