Director of Controls

Up to £200,000 | London | Hybrid | Permanent

Vargo is recruiting a Director of Controls for a large financial services business. This is a first-line leadership role with responsibility for building and leading a controls function across a complex technology and operations environment.

You will shape how controls are designed, operated, tested and improved, giving senior leaders a clear view of risk and making sure weaknesses are addressed with sustainable fixes.

• Build and lead a team responsible for the full controls lifecycle.
• Develop a risk-based approach to control design, testing, monitoring and reporting.
• Identify material weaknesses, agree practical remediation and track actions through to completion.
• Work with product, engineering, architecture, operations and risk teams to embed controls early in change and delivery.
• Use data, telemetry, automation and appropriate AI tools to improve visibility and control effectiveness.
• Provide clear reporting and constructive challenge to senior stakeholders.

• Experience owning and leading a first-line controls function at director level or equivalent.
• A strong understanding of technology and operational controls, with practical experience across design, testing, monitoring and remediation.
• Experience in payments or financial services and an understanding of the three lines model.
• The ability to build teams, influence senior stakeholders and turn complex risks into clear priorities.

Experience with real-time payment systems, critical infrastructure, GRC platforms or automation would be useful.

Up to £200,000, with hybrid working in London. Benefits package - details available during the process.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK without sponsorship. Sponsorship is not available for this role.