Head of Compliance

Head of Compliance job description

The Head of Compliance is responsible for developing and overseeing the compliance framework within a financial services organisation. This leadership role ensures adherence to regulatory obligations, internal policies, and ethical standards while fostering a strong culture of compliance across the business.

Head of Compliance job duties and responsibilities of the job

Key responsibilities of a Head of Compliance in the financial services sector include:

Designing and maintaining a robust compliance framework aligned with regulatory requirements

Advising senior management and the board on compliance risks and obligations

Monitoring changes in legislation and assessing business impacts

Overseeing compliance monitoring, reporting, and audit activities

Managing regulatory relationships with ASIC, APRA, AUSTRAC, and other bodies

Leading investigations into potential breaches and implementing corrective actions

Driving compliance training and awareness initiatives across the organisation

Developing policies, procedures, and controls to mitigate compliance risk

Embedding compliance into business processes and strategic initiatives

Supporting the implementation of regulatory change programs and industry reforms

Leading and mentoring the compliance team to deliver high performance

Typical Head of Compliance job qualifications and requirements

Extensive experience in financial services compliance is essential, supported by a bachelor’s degree in law, finance, or a related field, with professional certifications such as ICA, CAMS, or GRC qualifications preferred.

Key skills and attributes for success in this role include:

• Proven leadership in compliance roles within regulated financial services entities• Deep knowledge of ASIC, APRA, and AML/CTF regulatory frameworks• Strong track record in managing compliance programs and risk assessments• Experience in regulatory liaison, enforcement responses, and audit preparedness• Excellent analytical, investigative, and problem-solving skills• Effective communication and stakeholder engagement abilities• Ability to lead compliance input into strategic initiatives and regulatory change programs• High level of integrity, discretion, and sound judgement in high-risk environments

Looking for a head of compliance or a head of compliance job?

Submit your resume or request talent now and our expert recruiters will be with you shortly.

Robert Half can assist you with your head of compliance staffing needs.

Salary for Head of Compliance

184000 - 273000

25th Percentile

184000

The candidate has little or no prior experience in the position and is still developing relevant skills.

50th Percentile

224500

The candidate has an average level of experience and has most of the necessary skills.

75th Percentile

273000

The candidate has above-average experience, has most or all the necessary skills and may have specialised qualifications.

Salary range based on three percentiles The starting salaries represent gross yearly salaries. They do not include bonuses, benefits or superannuation.

Projected salaries for related positions

Position title

25th Percentile

50th Percentile

75th Percentile

Compliance Officer

83000

107000

127000

Compliance Manager

136000

146500

161000

Senior Compliance Manager

155500

171000

195000

Explore more salaries

Explore exclusive insights

Newest Head Of Compliance jobs

Search all jobs

Senior Risk & Compliance Manager | Financial Services Firm

Compliance Manager / Senior Compliance Manager

Risk & Compliance Officer | Financial Services

AML Manager | Financial Services

Hiring? Start here.

Access thousands of skilled contract and permanent candidates at every level from support roles to C-suite, and pinpoint the talent you need using our industry-leading matching technology.

Find your next hire