Governance and Compliance Manager(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Governance and Compliance Manager to play a key role within the University’s General Counsel, Governance and Compliance Division. Working closely with the Deputy University Secretary, you will contribute to effective governance, regulatory compliance, and institutional assurance across the University.

A significant focus of the role is leading the coordination of the University’s response to international security-related risks, including export controls, sanctions regimes, and national security legislation. You will act as a trusted adviser, supporting colleagues to understand and apply complex regulatory requirements in a way that enables high-quality research, sound governance, and informed decision-making.

Alongside this, you will support the operation of Council and its committees, contributing to robust governance processes, clear documentation, and effective assurance arrangements. The role involves close collaboration with academic colleagues, professional services teams, and external partners to embed good practice and respond to a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape.

This position is well suited to someone who enjoys working at pace, adapting to change, and helping governance and compliance frameworks operate effectively within a complex, values-led organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead institutional coordination on international security-related compliance, including export controls and sanctions
• Interpret legislation and regulatory requirements, translating them into practical and proportionate guidance
• Advise senior leaders and colleagues on governance, compliance, and risk matters
• Support Council and committee operations, including governance processes and assurance documentation
• Build awareness of compliance obligations across academic and professional services communities
• Work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to embed good governance practice
• Contribute to continuous improvement in governance and compliance arrangements

About You

You will be an experienced professional in governance, compliance, or risk management, ideally educated to degree level or with equivalent professional experience. You will have a strong, practical understanding of how regulation operates within complex organisations, particularly in relation to international security and regulatory risk.

You will bring:

• Confidence interpreting legislation, policy, and regulatory frameworks
• The ability to provide clear, pragmatic advice that supports effective decision-making
• Strong organisational skills and resilience in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent communication skills, with credibility at senior and board level
• Sound judgement, discretion, and diplomacy when handling sensitive matters
• Experience within higher education or another regulated sector is desirable but not essential.

About the Division

The General Counsel, Governance and Compliance Division supports the University’s strategic and operational objectives by providing expert advice on legal, governance, risk, and information management matters.

The Division works across the institution to promote high-quality decision-making, ensure compliance with legislative and regulatory requirements, and help the University manage risk while pursuing opportunity in an evolving external environment.

Why Work at Sussex

The University of Sussex is located on a 150-acre campus adjacent to the South Downs National Park, offering an exceptional working environment. The campus is well connected by public transport, with Falmer train station a short walk away, multiple bus routes, and dedicated cycling paths supported by a cycle-to-work scheme.

As a globally recognised, research-led university, Sussex places people at the heart of everything it does and is committed to creating an inclusive, supportive workplace where colleagues can thrive.

• Reward and benefits package
• Equality, diversity and inclusion at Sussex
• Right to Work and Visa Information

All work for the University must be undertaken within the UK. This role may be eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, subject to eligibility criteria.

Relevant UK government guidance:

Skilled Worker visa overview:
https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa

Right to work checks:
https://www.gov.uk/prove-right-to-work

Equality Act 2010 guidance:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/equality-act-2010-guidance

Further Information

The University of Sussex values diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from colleagues of all backgrounds.

Key Dates

• Closing Date: 5 January 2026 (04:59 AM)
• Expected Start Date: From January 2026

If you experience any difficulties using the application portal or require reasonable adjustments during the selection process