Head of Compliance; SMF| Specialty Insurance

Head of Compliance (SMF
16) | Specialty Insurance | London

Coopman Search is working exclusively with a well-capitalised, UK-regulated specialty insurer in London to appoint a Head of Compliance (SMF
16).

This is a senior leadership role within a UK-regulated insurer operating in the specialty market, with significant delegated authority exposure. The role will lead the Compliance function, support senior stakeholders, and help maintain a robust governance framework as the business continues to grow.

• SMF
  16 leading the Compliance function and owning the compliance risk profile
• Own and enhance the Compliance Framework, ensuring it remains fit-for-purpose as the business scales
• Set and deliver the annual Compliance Plan, including monitoring, assurance and thematic reviews
• Provide compliance oversight across delegated authority/MGA arrangements, including governance and controls
• Partner with senior stakeholders to provide pragmatic, commercial compliance advice across the business
• Support the CEO/CRO with FCA/PRA engagement, regulatory readiness and reporting
• Produce and present Board and Committee reporting, representing Compliance in governance forums
• Drive a strong compliance culture through training, guidance, and Fit & Proper / SM&CR oversight

• Proven experience in a senior Compliance leadership role within insurance/specialty markets
• SMF
  16 experience (or clear readiness to step into SMF
  16) strongly preferred
• Strong knowledge of the UK regulatory environment (FCA/PRA, SM&CR)
• Experience with delegated authority/MGA oversight and third-party governance
• Confident producing and presenting Board/Committee reporting and compliance MI
• Comfortable operating in a scaling/high-growth environment (building and improving frameworks)
• Strong stakeholder management skills, able to influence and challenge at senior level
• Clear communicator with a pragmatic, commercial mindset and strong written skills

This is an excellent opportunity to take ownership of the Compliance function within a growing specialty insurer, with strong visibility across senior leadership and governance. The role offers genuine scope to shape the framework as the business continues to scale.

If you’re open to a confidential discussion, please message me directly or email:

Equally, if you know someone suitable, I’d welcome an introduction.

As a Certified B Corporation™, we take a different approach to how we do business. Recognised on an international scale as a company that operates for good, we value & incorporate the interests of all of our stakeholders to grow in the most sustainable manner. As a recognised Great Place to Work™, we ensure our workplace is one that fosters professional growth and collaboration.