We are seeking an experienced and high-calibre Head of Risk for a pivotal 6-month fixed-term contract reporting to the Group CFO. We offer a hybrid working pattern and the role can be worked over 4 or 5 days. In this role, you will lead and manage the delivery of our enterprise risk, loss prevention, health and safety and compliance strategies.
A critical focus of this 6-month tenure will be facilitating a comprehensive handover of all risk, compliance, loss prevention and health and safety functions for The Co-op Group as part of our upcoming merger.
- Risk & Compliance Framework: Maintain and oversee a robust enterprise risk management framework across strategic, departmental, and project levels.
- Merger Handover: Drive seamless handover of all risk and compliance areas to The Co-op Group.
- Regulatory Oversight: Act as the FCA-approved SMF16 Compliance Officer, managing funeral plans product compliance monitoring.
- Health & Safety: Serve as the organization’s competent person, directing H&S strategies, policies, and multi-site compliance.
- Medicines Regulation: Act as the 'Responsible Person' (RP) under Human Medicines Regulations, ensuring strict Good Distribution Practice (GDP) across franchise operations.
- Business Continuity: Maintain and test business continuity and crisis management plans.
- Team Leadership & Budgets: Provide leadership to the Risk, H&S, and Loss Prevention teams while managing insurance portfolios and corporate compliance budgets.
- Experience: Minimum of 5 years in a senior Risk and Health & Safety leadership role, ideally within a multi-site or regulated environment.
- Qualifications: Graduate-calibre professional with relevant technical qualifications (e.g., Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety, Management of Risk Practitioner). Chartered status is highly desirable.
- Regulatory Expertise: Direct experience with FCA compliance frameworks (SMF functions) and/or Human Medicines Regulations (GDP) is strongly preferred.
- Skills: Exceptional stakeholders management, communication, and diplomatic skills to interface confidently with Board members, legal bodies, and operational teams.
- Attributes: Strong analytical capability, practical problem-solving skills, and a proven track record of handling organizational transition or merger handovers.
This is a high-profile, fast-paced contract where you can make a tangible impact during a major corporate milestone. If you are a pragmatic, senior risk professional who thrives under your own initiative, apply today!
