Risk & Regulatory Compliance Lead

Description:

This role sits within the first line of defence and supports business ownership of sustainability-related risks and opportunities across the Group. Unlike a traditional risk management role within the second line of defence, the position focuses on establishing frameworks, policies, governance and implementation activities that support effective management of sustainability-related risks while partnering closely with the Risk function to maintain robust oversight and governance.

Key Responsibilities

Sustainability Risk Management

Act as the first line sustainability risk specialist within the Central Sustainability Office. 
Support the business in identifying, assessing and managing sustainability-related risks and opportunities. 
Develop and maintain sustainability risk frameworks, methodologies, guidance and tools to support effective risk management. 
Coordinate sustainability risk assessments, materiality reviews and horizon-scanning activities. 
Monitor emerging sustainability risks and provide analysis of potential impacts on the business, clients and stakeholders. 
Support the development of sustainability-related risk appetite measures, metrics, indicators and management information. 
Work with risk owners to ensure sustainability risks are appropriately documented, monitored and managed. 
Provide subject matter expertise and constructive challenge to business teams on sustainability risk matters. 
Partner with the second line Risk function to support the continued evolution of sustainability risk governance and reporting. 
Prepare papers, recommendations and management information for senior management committees and governance forums. 

Sustainability Policy & Governance

Lead the development, review and maintenance of sustainability-related policies, standards and governance frameworks. 
Ensure policies remain aligned with regulatory requirements, industry best practice and the Group's sustainability strategy. 
Oversee policy implementation and support business functions in embedding policy requirements into operational processes. 
Coordinate policy reviews, governance approvals and periodic effectiveness assessments. 
Support the development of sustainability-related governance processes and decision-making frameworks. 
Maintain clear documentation and accountability for sustainability policy ownership across the Group. 

Regulatory, Public Policy & External Developments

Monitor developments across UK, EU and international sustainability regulation, public policy and market practice. 
Assess the implications of emerging regulations, standards and guidance for the Group. 
Lead internal analysis of policy developments and prepare recommendations for senior stakeholders. 
Coordinate cross-functional responses to regulatory consultations, industry initiatives and policy developments where appropriate. 
Represent the Group in industry working groups, trade associations and external stakeholder forums. 
Maintain awareness of evolving expectations from regulators, investors, clients, ratings agencies, policymakers and civil society organisations. 

Strategic Business Partnering

Work closely with business units and corporate functions to support the effective management of sustainability risks and opportunities. 
Provide expert advice on sustainability-related issues to senior stakeholders across the organisation. 
Support strategic projects, including sustainability strategy development, transition planning, nature-related initiatives, human rights programmes and responsible business activities. 
Facilitate collaboration across Risk, Compliance, Legal, Investments, Procurement, HR, Corporate Affairs and other key functions. 
Promote understanding of sustainability-related risks and opportunities through training, guidance and stakeholder engagement. 

Reporting & Disclosure

Support sustainability reporting and disclosures, ensuring consistency with internal policies and external requirements. 
Contribute to responses for ESG ratings, benchmarks, investor requests and stakeholder questionnaires. 
Develop management information, dashboards and reporting materials for executive and board-level audiences. 
Support assurance processes relating to sustainability data, controls and disclosures. 
Monitor emerging reporting requirements and support implementation of new disclosure obligations. 

Essential

Knowledge, Skills & Experience

Significant experience in sustainability, ESG, public policy, regulatory affairs, risk management or a related discipline. 
Strong understanding of sustainability-related risks and opportunities, including climate, nature, human rights and broader social issues. 
Experience developing policies, governance frameworks, standards or risk management approaches. 
Knowledge of UK and international sustainability regulations, reporting frameworks and market developments. 
Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills, with experience engaging senior leaders. 
Ability to translate complex sustainability and regulatory matters into practical business actions. 
Excellent analytical, written and verbal communication skills. 
Experience preparing high-quality papers and presentations for senior management, executive committees or boards. 
Strong project management skills and the ability to operate effectively across a complex stakeholder environment.