Job Introduction
Job Title: Head of Governance and Risk-
Location: Thame (Oxfordshire)
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Working arrangements: Hybrid, 2 days per week on-site
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Salary: £65,000 per annum
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Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Affinity Trust is a national charity dedicated to supporting people with learning disabilities to live fulfilling lives. We are looking for an exceptional governance professional to join our senior leadership team as our new Head of Governance and Risk.
Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, this is a high‑impact role at the heart of our organisation. You will lead governance and assurance, act as Company Secretary, oversee corporate risk and business continuity, and advise the Board and Executive Team.
As a trusted strategic partner, you will help ensure we meet our statutory and regulatory obligations, strengthen decision-making, and uphold our values.
You will be responsible for:
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Leading governance, assurance and Board/Committee support
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Acting as Company Secretary and ensuring statutory compliance
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Managing risk, internal control and organisational resilience
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Overseeing the performance of external legal advisors
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Providing governance oversight of data protection and information compliance
This standalone role requires significant expertise, confidence and integrity. You will bring strong knowledge of charity and company law, excellent Board-level communication skills, and the ability to balance strategic insight with hands‑on delivery.
If you are a values-driven professional who wants to make a real difference, we would love to hear from you.
Key Priorities for the First 12 Months
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Strengthen the organisation’s governance framework and Board reporting cycle.
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Lead a structured review of the corporate risk register and associated assurance processes.
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Embed a refreshed business continuity framework, including scenario testing.
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Support a Board effectiveness evaluation and implementation of any recommendations.
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Review the performance and value-for-money of external legal advisors.
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Enhance processes for data protection and ICO compliance oversight in partnership with the SIRO.
What We’re Looking For
We are seeking a highly capable governance professional who brings:
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Strong technical expertise in charity governance, risk, and regulatory compliance.
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Confidence advising senior leaders and Trustees.
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Excellent communication, diplomacy, and influencing skills.
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A proactive, values-led approach with the ability to work autonomously.
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The ability to juggle strategic insight with hands-on delivery.
You don’t need to have worked in a large team — this role is well-suited to someone who thrives in a standalone, high-responsibility position.
Please note, all roles are subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, at the relevant level for the position. This check will be paid for by us.
