Wärtsilä Defence Solutions Limited (WDSL) delivers integrated shaft line systems, packages and products for naval and commercial marine applications. Our solutions help customers improve lifecycle efficiency, reduce operational risk and support environmentally sustainable operations.
We are now looking for a Head of Compliance to join Wärtsilä Defence Solutions Limited on a permanent basis in Havant, UK.
As Head of Compliance, you will report directly to the Managing Director and be a key member of the WDSL Management Team. Working closely with colleagues across WDSL and the wider Shaft Line Solutions (SLS) business, you will provide leadership across compliance, cyber security, quality assurance and operational development, helping to ensure the business continues to operate effectively within a highly regulated environment.
This is an opportunity to influence business performance, strengthen governance frameworks and help shape the future direction of a growing defence business.
What you will be doing
As Head of Compliance, your responsibilities will include:
Leadership & Governance
- Leading the Export Control & Trade Compliance, Operational Development, IT & Cyber, and Quality Assurance functions.
- Supporting, developing and empowering teams through coaching, capability building, succession planning and performance development.
- Fostering a culture of safety, quality, compliance and continuous improvement.
- Partnering with business leaders to ensure compliance considerations are integrated into decision-making and business planning.
- Building strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders and providing expert guidance across the business.
- Overseeing the governance of site and personnel security requirements.
Export Control & Trade Compliance
- Ensuring continued compliance with UK export control legislation and applicable international regulations, including US EAR and ITAR requirements.
- Working with subject matter experts, corporate functions and external authorities to maintain effective compliance processes and controls.
- Supporting the business in identifying and managing trade compliance risks.
Operational Development, IT & Cyber
- Leading compliance with military and defence cyber security standards and regulations, including CMMC, NIST, ISO 27001 and Def Stan 05-138.
- Promoting cyber security awareness and continuous improvement across the organisation.
- Supporting the reliability and effectiveness of IT systems, facilities and operational infrastructure.
Quality Assurance
- Maintaining and improving the Business Management System in accordance with BS EN ISO 9001:2015.
- Ensuring compliance with relevant quality, cyber and information security standards.
- Leading quality assurance activities, audits and improvement initiatives that support customer satisfaction and operational excellence.
To be successful in this role, we expect you to have:
- Experience leading compliance, cyber security, quality assurance or related functions within a defence, aerospace, maritime or similarly regulated environment.
- A degree qualification (BSc or BA) or equivalent professional experience within an engineering, defence, aerospace or maritime organisation.
- Knowledge of export control regulations, governance frameworks, cyber security standards and quality management systems.
- The ability to build trusted relationships and collaborate effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
- Experience working within complex organisations and balancing multiple priorities.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make sound, evidence-based decisions.
- Excellent communication skills in English, both written and spoken.
- A high level of integrity and commitment to good governance.
- A proactive approach with a continuous improvement mindset and enthusiasm for learning and development.
Please note that this position requires the successful candidate to obtain and maintain the appropriate Security Clearance (SC level). Any applicants must have (and be able to evidence) the right to work in the UK.
Why you and us?
You are valued as your true self. At Wärtsilä, we believe in diversity, inclusion and equal opportunities for all. We are committed to creating an environment where everyone can contribute, develop and thrive.
We support our people in building meaningful careers through continuous learning, collaboration and opportunities for growth.
Last application date: 16/08/2026
At Wärtsilä we value, respect and embrace all our differences, and are committed to diversity, inclusion and equal employment opportunities; everyone can be their true self and succeed based on their job-relevant merits and abilities.
Please note that according to Wärtsilä policy, voluntary consent for a security check may be required from candidates being considered for this position, depending on the applicable country.
