Service Manager, Governance

We are seeking a Service Manager of Governance to lead and develop our governance framework, ensuring the organisation maintains the highest standards of governance, compliance and regulatory assurance as a Registered Provider.

Reporting closely to the Board, CEO and Executive Team, you will act as the organisation’s governance expert, providing strategic advice, overseeing Board and Committee governance, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulatory and legal obligations.

This is a permanent position; however, for a period of up to 12 months, the role will also assume responsibility for Compliance and Data Governance to provide maternity cover. During this period, the postholder will also oversee and maintain the organisation’s compliance framework, ensuring adherence to regulatory, legal and policy requirements. The role will also support data governance and data quality improvements, helping to strengthen regulatory assurance, inform robust decision-making and drive continuous improvement across the organisation.

Following the maternity cover period, responsibility for Compliance and Data Governance will transfer back to the substantive postholder, and the role will revert to its permanent core responsibilities.

About the Role

As our Service Manager - Governance, you’ll lead the development and continuous improvement of the organisation’s governance framework, ensuring full compliance with regulatory, legal and statutory obligations as a Registered Provider and Community Benefit Society.

You’ll be the organisation’s governance expert, providing trusted advice to senior leaders, overseeing governance activities across Board and committee structures, and fostering a culture of strong governance, accountability and continuous improvement.

Reporting to the Executive Director of Corporate Services & Asset Management, you’ll lead a small Governance and Compliance team while influencing governance practices across the wider organisation.

What You’ll Be Doing

Governance Leadership

• Lead the development, implementation and enhancement of the corporate governance framework.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory, statutory and governance best-practice requirements.
• Act as the organisation’s subject matter expert on governance and regulatory expectations.
• Maintain governance policies, Standing Orders and constitutional documents.

Board & Committee Support

• Oversee governance arrangements for Boards and Committees.
• Support effective decision-making and strong governance assurance processes.
• Contribute to Board effectiveness reviews and governance improvement initiatives.

Regulatory & Legal Compliance

• Monitor changes in regulatory requirements and advise senior leaders accordingly.
• Maintain statutory registers and key governance records.
• Manage relationships with legal advisers and external regulators.

Strategic Influence

• Provide expert governance advice to the Board, CEO and Executive Team.
• Promote a culture of transparency, accountability and continuous improvement.
• Champion value for money and effective governance across the organisation.

Are you an experienced governance professional with a strong understanding of social housing regulation and corporate governance?, Essential Experience

• Strong understanding of social housing governance frameworks and regulation.
• Experience supporting Boards and Committees at a senior level.
• Knowledge of governance standards, codes and regulatory compliance requirements.
• Experience managing governance and legal documentation.
• Proven ability to lead teams, influence stakeholders and drive positive change.
• Experience identifying root causes and implementing improvements.

Skills & Attributes

• Strong leadership and relationship-building skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to influence and constructively challenge senior stakeholders.
• Strong project management and organisational skills.
• Comfortable working under pressure and managing competing priorities.
• Passion for continuous improvement and developing a positive learning culture.

Qualifications

We would love to hear from candidates who have:

• PRINCE2 Practitioner qualification.
• Experience in compliance management, regulatory affairs or a related field.
• Knowledge of relevant regulations and industry standards.

It would be advantageous if you also have:

• A degree in Law, Business, Governance or a related discipline.
• ICSA qualification or equivalent professional accreditation.
• CIH qualification/training to Level 4.

If you have the experience and drive to help us achieve our vision, we’d love to hear from you!