About this role
Location: Camden (Kings Cross, London) / Hawkshead (nr Potters Bar, Herts)
About the role
This is an exciting opportunity to lead a significant institutional programme to strengthen, modernise and standardise the RVC's approach to corporate compliance while supporting the ongoing operation of due diligence assessments. Offered on a fixed-term basis for an initial 6 months, with the possibility of extension to 9 months, the role can be undertaken either full-time or at 0.8 FTE and supports hybrid working. The successful candidate may be based at either the RVC's Camden or Hawkshead campus. Reporting to the University Secretary and collaborating with colleagues across academic and professional services departments, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and embedding a robust, risk-based approach to managing corporate relationships and compliance obligations.
As the subject matter expert in this area, you will provide specialist advice on corporate compliance, due diligence, strategic partnership risks, and emerging regulatory requirements. You will lead the review and implementation of new processes, systems and frameworks that support informed decision-making, enhance institutional oversight, and promote a strong culture of compliance across the organisation.
Key Responsibilities:
Developing and implementing streamlined corporate compliance and due diligence processes. Conducting due diligence assessments and producing reports and recommendations for senior leaders and committees. Developing and delivering guidance, training, and awareness activities for staff. Supporting the implementation of the Corporate Relationships Framework and Foreign Influence Registration Scheme requirements. Monitoring legislative and regulatory developments and advising on their implications for the institution. Implementing systems and processes to improve efficiency, consistency, and risk management. Building effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders and facilitating collaborative approaches to compliance challenges.
Supporting governance processes, including the servicing of committees as required.
About you
We are looking for someone with:
A degree or equivalent professional experience. Experience of delivering high-quality due diligence assessments, compliance reviews, or equivalent corporate governance activity. Experience of interpreting regulatory requirements and translating them into practical organisational processes and guidance. Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to engage and influence colleagues at all levels. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to produce reports, policies, and procedures. Strong analytical skills and the ability to identify risks, trends, and opportunities for improvement. Experience of managing data, systems, and reporting processes, including Microsoft Office applications. A collaborative and solution-focused approach, with excellent organisational skills and attention to detail. Experience within higher education, knowledge of research security requirements and familiarity with governance processes in complex organisations would be advantageous.
This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the University's governance and compliance landscape, helping to ensure that the RVC remains responsive to an increasingly complex regulatory environment while supporting its strategic ambitions.
We offer a generous reward package and benefits including:
Competitive and attractive pension package Generous 30 days annual leave (plus bank holidays and concessionary days) pro-rata A range of family friendly policies, including adoption, maternity and paternity pay and leave. On site café and restaurant Free membership to the newly built Fitness and Wellbeing Centre located on Hawkshead site (gym, badminton, climbing wall, Zumba, yoga, and Pilates classes included) Cycle to work scheme. Electric Car Lease Scheme Free mini-bus service to and from Potters Bar station and Hawkshead Campus.
Informal enquiries relating to this role can be directed to Laura Witt, University Secretary: [email protected]