Job Title: Head of Compliance & Operations
Location: United Kingdom (Hybrid)
Salary: £100,000 - £130,000 + Equity
An early-stage AI company is seeking a Head of Compliance & Operations to lead the build-out of its regulatory, compliance, and operational infrastructure.
Operating at the intersection of artificial intelligence and regulated industries, the company is focused on developing secure, high-performance products while establishing a strong governance and compliance foundation from the outset.
The Role
This is a high-impact, leadership position responsible for guiding the business from startup phase to a fully regulated UK entity.
The successful candidate will take ownership of the FCA authorisation process, acting as the primary point of contact with the regulator, while designing and implementing a best-in-class compliance and operational framework.
This role combines strategic oversight with hands-on execution, making it ideal for someone who thrives in fast-paced, build-from-scratch environments.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the end-to-end FCA authorisation process, including application and regulatory engagement
Build and implement a robust compliance and risk framework
Establish governance structures and internal controls aligned with regulatory expectations
Design and scale operational processes to support a regulated business
Oversee regulatory reporting, audits, and compliance monitoring
Partner with product and engineering teams to embed compliance into product design
Support leadership and investors with regulatory and risk insights
Requirements
Proven experience leading or supporting FCA authorisation in the UK
Strong understanding of UK regulatory frameworks and compliance standards
Background in compliance, risk, or operations within a regulated industry (e.g. fintech, AI, SaaS)
Experience building compliance frameworks from the ground up
Deep knowledge of GDPR, data protection, and operational risk
Ability to operate both strategically and hands-on
Preferred Experience
Experience in early-stage or high-growth environments
Exposure to AI or data-driven products in regulated settings
Track record of successful regulatory approvals
Familiarity with UK and EU regulatory landscapes
Why Apply
Opportunity to shape the regulatory foundation of a growing AI company
High ownership and direct impact on business trajectory
Close collaboration with leadership and key stakeholders
Equity participation in an early-stage businessThis is a unique opportunity for a compliance leader to build and scale a regulated function from the ground up within an innovative AI-driven environment
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