What is it like working in Governance and Assurance at Accent?

We’re looking for a new Director of Governance and Assurance to join Accent and lead our Governance and Business Assurance Directorate.

It’s an important role, providing leadership across corporate governance, regulatory compliance, risk management and assurance, and supporting our Board, Executive Team and colleagues across Accent.

But what is it actually like to work in Governance and Assurance at Accent? We asked some of the people who know best.

Making a difference behind the scenes

For Fiona Whitworth, Business Assurance, Risk and Resilience Officer, one of the things she enjoys most is the variety of her role and knowing that her work makes a difference.

Fiona also highlights the breadth of work within the team, with responsibilities ranging from reviewing strategic risks and managing audit activity to leading emergency planning, supporting regulatory compliance and contributing to governance reporting.

That sense of purpose is shared across the wider team.

Samm Ellis, Data Protection and Compliance Lead, said: “For me, it's knowing that the work we do matters. Assurance, in my case data protection, may not always be the most visible part of the organisation, but it's essential in helping Accent make informed decisions, manage risk effectively and maintain trust.”

Working together to find the right solutions

While Governance and Assurance is about helping Accent manage risk, maintain high standards and do the right thing, it’s also about working collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation.

For Jeanelle Hartley, Data Protection Co-ordinator, this is one of the most enjoyable parts of her role.

Jeanelle says data protection is about protecting people’s information and making sure Accent does the right thing for customers and colleagues.

It's also a team where colleagues support one another. Jeanelle describes everyone as approachable and supportive, with a strong sense of trust that encourages people to share ideas, ask questions and learn from each other.

Samm agrees, adding: “There’s a genuine sense of teamwork and shared purpose. Colleagues are approachable, supportive and always willing to share knowledge, which makes it a great environment to learn and develop.”

An opportunity to shape what comes next

Our new Director of Governance and Assurance will have the opportunity to build on this culture while providing leadership across the organisation.

As well as acting as Company Secretary, the successful candidate will oversee areas including internal audit, risk and compliance frameworks, statutory and regulatory reporting, and provide trusted advice to our Board and Committees.

For Jeanelle, the role offers the chance to have a genuine influence across Accent.

She said: “Governance isn't just about policies and compliance here, it's about supporting the organisation to make good decisions and keep customers at the heart of what we do.

“You'll have the opportunity to influence across the business, work with passionate and knowledgeable colleagues, and help shape a culture where accountability, trust and continuous improvement are valued every day.”

And Fiona has a simple message for anyone considering joining the team:

Could you be our new Director of Governance and Assurance?

The role is permanent and hybrid, with regular travel to Bradford and Peterborough.

We’re looking for an experienced governance professional who can combine expertise across governance, regulation, assurance and risk management with strong leadership and relationship-building skills.

Applications close at 9am on Monday 9 November 2026.

If you’d like to help shape Governance and Assurance at Accent and play an important part in helping us deliver for our customers, find out more and apply through GatenbySanderson.