Head of Governance and Compliance

Interview: w/c 16^th Sept  

About Us

Metanoia is a small but dynamic higher education provider committed to delivering high-quality educational programmes that meet the needs of our student body. We are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of governance, compliance, and regulatory adherence to ensure the integrity of our institution.

Position Overview

The Head of Governance and Compliance will play a crucial role in ensuring that Metanoia operates within the legal and regulatory frameworks applicable to higher education in the UK, and the Charities Commission. This role involves overseeing all aspects of governance, legal compliance, data protection, and risk management. The successful candidate will work closely with the Executive team, Board of Governors, and external stakeholders to ensure that the institution's operations are aligned with best practices and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Governance:
• Lead and manage the governance framework of the institution, ensuring effective functioning of the Board of Governors and its committees.
• Develop, implement, and review governance policies and procedures to ensure alignment with regulatory requirements and best practices.
• Secretary to the Board; Advise the Board and senior management on governance issues and ensure compliance with the Articles of Association, governing documents, and relevant legislation.
• Coordinate and supervise the preparation and dissemination of Board papers, minutes, and reports.
• Regulatory Compliance:
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and standards, including those set by the Office for Students (OfS), Quality Assurance Agency (QAA), and other accrediting bodies.
• Oversee the institution's compliance with data protection laws (including GDPR), health and safety regulations, and equality and diversity requirements.
• Act as the institution’s Data Protection Officer (DPO), ensuring the safeguarding of personal data and compliance with data protection legislation.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of changes in relevant legislation and regulatory frameworks, advising the institution on necessary adjustments to policies and procedures.
• Risk Management:
• Develop and implement a comprehensive risk management framework, including regular risk assessments and mitigation strategies.
• Monitor and report on the institution's risk profile, ensuring that risks are identified, assessed, and managed effectively.
• Lead on the development and testing of business continuity and disaster recovery plans.
• Legal and Ethical Standards:
• Provide legal advice and support on institutional matters, liaising with external legal counsel as necessary.
• Promote a culture of ethical behaviour and compliance across the institution, including the development of training programmes for staff and students.
• Investigate and manage incidents of non-compliance, ensuring appropriate actions are taken to address issues and prevent recurrence.
• Stakeholder Engagement:
• Build and maintain strong relationships with external regulatory bodies, partners, and stakeholders to ensure effective communication and compliance.
• Represent the institution at external meetings, conferences, and events related to governance and compliance.

Qualifications and Experience

• Essential:
• A degree in Law, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Extensive experience in governance, compliance, or legal roles within the higher education sector or a similar regulated environment.
• In-depth knowledge of UK higher education regulations, including OfS, QAA, and GDPR requirements.
• Proven track record of managing risk and ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and build relationships at all levels of the institution.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Desirable:
• Professional qualifications in governance, compliance, or risk management (e.g., Chartered Governance Institute, ICSA).
• Experience in a senior governance role within a higher education institution.
• Familiarity with business continuity planning and crisis management.

Personal Attributes

• High integrity and ethical standards.
• A proactive, solution-oriented approach.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.