Head of Professional Standards

Head of Professional Standards & Policy Job DescriptionReports to: CEOLocation: Hybrid – working remotely and attending ICB’s London office and external meetings and events as requiredHours: Full-time (35 hours/week)Salary: CompetitiveRole PurposeThe Head of Professional Standards & Policy is a senior leadership role at the heart ofICB’s mission to uphold trust in the bookkeeping profession and give members a clear,credible voice with government and regulators. You’ll lead our Professional StandardsDepartment and set ICB’s technical policy agenda, shaping our positions on regulation andwider business policy; responding to consultations; and translating change into practicalguidance for members.With the FCA set to take on AML supervision of bookkeepers in the future, this role will steera thoughtful transition in our standards work - maintaining proportionate AML supervisionfor as long as required, while refocusing our work on professional conduct, ethics, andpolicy influence and supporting members to meet their obligations with confidence andintegrity.This is a role for someone who combines rigour with empathy, who understands regulationbut also cares deeply about the people it serves. You’ll oversee investigations, conduct andAML supervision, while also providing professional support to members seeking guidanceabout their practice, ethics, or career.About ICBThe Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) is the world’s largest bookkeeping body,supporting 3200 bookkeeping firms in the UK. We certify, supervise, support and connectbookkeepers around the world, championing their role as trusted finance professionalspowering small business.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic LeadershipLead and develop the Professional Standards team, setting a clear, future-focusedstrategy.Embed best practice in governance, risk management, and member engagement in partnership with the CEO and Executive Team.Member Voice and External PolicyOwn ICB’s technical policy and engage constructively with HM Treasury, HMRC,Companies House, the FCA and other stakeholders.Lead responses to consultations and calls for evidence; brief the CEO/Board; and represent ICB in roundtables, working groups and parliamentary/industry forums.Build practical guidance that turns complex policy into day-to-day steps for members.Professional Conduct & EthicsOversee membership eligibility, professional conduct, ethics, and disciplinaryframeworks.Manage investigations, case preparation, and disciplinary hearings.Review and refine ICB’s Professional Conduct Regulations and supporting policies.AML Supervision (transitional)Maintain proportionate and effective AML supervision for as long as ICB remains anAML supervisor; ensure compliant processes and reporting.Liaise with relevant authorities and professional bodies to share intelligence andbest practice, and plan for an orderly transition to FCA supervision.Member Guidance & EngagementProvide expert, empathetic guidance to members on ethics, compliance, andpractice. Ensure our tone is approachable, knowledgeable, and consistent.Collaborate with ICB’s learning and communications teams to develop clear,practical guidance and CPD content.Governance & ReportingEnsure robust internal reporting and documentation for OPBAS, HM Treasury, andICB’s Board and Committees.Use data and insight to drive improvement in compliance, standards, and membersupport.Champion transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement.Person SpecificationEssentialSenior experience in a professional or public body, or similar regulated environmentA recognised professional qualification in accounting or bookkeepingProven leadership and case management skillsExcellent communication, diplomacy, and relationship-building abilitiesA principled, supportive approach to maintaining high professional standardsAbility to interpret complex regulation and turn it into practical guidanceDesirableExperience of working within the framework of the Money Laundering Regulations(MLRs) and under OPBAS/FCA oversightExperience in accountancy or bookkeeping practiceMembership of an accountancy professional bodyExperience advising professionals or small businesses on ethics, compliance, orbusiness managementYou’ll Thrive in This Role If You Are:A steady, thoughtful leader who inspiresEqually comfortable with regulatory detail and real-world empathyPassionate about supporting professionals to do their best workExcited to shape the future of professional standards for bookkeepersAligned with ICB’s values of Purpose, Passion, and ProgressWhy Work for ICB?ICB is small in headcount and big in impact. Every team member contributes to shaping thefuture of the bookkeeping profession. We offer flexible working, a collaborative and values drivenculture, regular social events, your birthday off, and five extra days’ leave atChristmas.