Head of Compliance | Parktown

SUMMARY:
Head of Compliance | Parktown

POSITION INFO:
Our client, a specialised insurance provider with a rich history in construction guarantees and niche underwriting, is seeking a visionary Head of Compliance Control Function. This is a pivotal role within a non-hierarchical, collaborative organization that prides itself on \"Nimbility,\" the perfect balance of nimbleness and stability. Key Responsibilities: Strategic Leadership: Transform the compliance function into a strategic partner that maps the regulatory universe and finds solutions within the South African legal framework. Regulatory Navigation: Implement and oversee effective monitoring plans across the entire business ecosystem. Digital Transformation: Champion the governance unit's digital platform, leveraging automated workflows, real-time dashboards, and data analytics over manual tracking. Stakeholder Management: Maintain excellent working relationships with counterparts in other control functions to contribute to a robust combined assurance framework. Objective Oversight: Maintain a primary reporting line to the Risk and Compliance Committee with unfettered access to the Board to ensure absolute independence. Operational Excellence: Manage regulatory relationships and provide proactive advice to business heads and external partners. Requirements: Academic Background : A bachelor's degree in Law or Finance is essential; a Master's degree is considered advantageous . Professional Experience : Minimum of 10 years in the compliance field, including at least 2 years serving as a Head of a Compliance Control Function . Industry Knowledge : Deep experience in the insurance sector is critical, with specific experience in non-life insurance being highly advantageous . Statutory Approvals : A proven track record of approval by the Prudential Authority (PA) and FSCA is essential . Specific Designations : Prior Phase I approval with the FSCA as a FAIS Compliance Officer and the appetite to serve as the Information Officer (POPIA) . Digital Conversance : High degree of digital competence and a preference for automated systems . Action-Oriented : A \"roll up your sleeves\" attitude with the ability to lead a lean, high-impact team . Complex Problem Solving : Ability to distill complex regulatory structures into pragmatic, actionable intelligence . Relationship Focus : Exceptional communication skills to build trust with internal stakeholders and external Underwriting Management Agency (UMA) partners .