Application Guide
How to Apply for Head of Compliance
at Wartsila
🏢 About Wartsila
Wärtsilä is a global leader in innovative technologies and lifecycle solutions for the marine and energy markets, driving decarbonization and sustainability. Working here offers the chance to contribute to cutting-edge projects in a company committed to a sustainable future, with a strong emphasis on compliance and quality in a highly regulated environment.
About This Role
As Head of Compliance, you will lead critical functions including export control, trade compliance, IT & cyber, and quality assurance, ensuring adherence to UK and international regulations. This role is pivotal in safeguarding the company's operations, maintaining certifications like ISO 9001, and supporting Wärtsilä's mission in the defence and maritime sectors.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve reviewing export license applications, meeting with IT to discuss cyber security audits, and leading a quality management review. You'll also liaise with regulatory bodies and internal teams to ensure ongoing compliance, while strategizing on process improvements to support Wärtsilä's sustainability goals.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Wartsila Is Looking For
- Experienced in leading compliance, cyber security, or quality assurance in defence, aerospace, or maritime industries.
- Deep knowledge of UK export control legislation, US EAR/ITAR, and cyber standards like CMMC, NIST, ISO 27001, and Def Stan 05-138.
- Proven ability to manage Business Management Systems compliant with ISO 9001:2015.
- Excellent communicator in English, capable of engaging with regulatory bodies and internal stakeholders.
📝 Tips for Applying to Wartsila
Highlight specific experience with UK export control and US EAR/ITAR in your CV, using concrete examples.
Demonstrate knowledge of defence cyber security standards (CMMC, NIST, ISO 27001, Def Stan 05-138) and any certifications you hold.
Emphasize leadership in quality management systems, especially ISO 9001:2015, and any improvements you drove.
Tailor your cover letter to show understanding of Wärtsilä's role in decarbonization and how compliance supports sustainability.
Research Wärtsilä's recent projects in marine and energy sectors to align your experience with their current focus.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Your experience leading compliance and cyber security in a defence or maritime context.', 'Specific knowledge of UK and US export control regulations and defence cyber standards.', 'How you have improved or maintained ISO 9001-certified management systems.', "Your commitment to sustainability and how compliance contributes to Wärtsilä's decarbonization goals."]
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Review Wärtsilä's annual report and sustainability initiatives to understand their decarbonization strategy.
- → Look into recent news about Wärtsilä's defence contracts or partnerships in the UK.
- → Familiarize yourself with Wärtsilä's organizational structure and how compliance fits into the broader business.
- → Study the specific cyber security frameworks mentioned (CMMC, NIST, Def Stan 05-138) and their relevance to Wärtsilä.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid generic compliance experience; focus on defence/maritime and export control specifics.
- Don't overlook the cyber security aspects; ensure you address all standards listed.
- Never claim expertise in areas you don't have; be honest about your experience and willingness to learn.
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!