Compliance and Legal Officer

Wellington College International Pune (WCI Pune) is the eighth in the Wellington College International family and the first of several planned for India. Allied to the Unison Group, one of India’s leading educational providers and renowned for quality and academic rigour, WCI Pune benefits from a strong partnership and collaboration with Wellington College UK and Wellington College schools in China and Thailand. This core partnership with Wellington College UK is pivotal for every school and WCI Pune embraces this authentic relationship, leveraging upon the outstanding quality of education exhibited across the network of schools. Ultimately, we will prepare our pupils through the robust and rigorous platforms of the IGCSE and IBDP programmes, to access the highest grades and entry to leading global universities (including top institutions in the US and the UK).

Although initially a day school, WCI Pune is intended to be a coeducational day and boarding school for 800 pupils between the ages of 2-18. In the first phase of development, the School opened in September 2023, at the outset for Pre-Nursery (age 2) to Year 9 (age 14) in the Senior School. We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework and the English National Curriculum. In 2024 we aim to introduce IGCSE and the IB Diploma for which Wellington College UK is amongst the leading academic schools globally.

Nestled at the banks of the Mula-Mutha river in Pune at Kharadi (Wagholi), WCI Pune enjoys a lush, serene, and inspiring 10-acre campus designed by MICA, an award-winning and leading British architectural firm. The School has outstanding facilities, in all facets of learning & teaching, sports, music and performing arts. It also has proximity to Pune International Airport, prominent hospitality, residential and retail developments.

**Purpose**:
The Compliance Officer is responsible for ensuring that the school operates in accordance with all applicable laws, regulations, and policies set by the government, education boards, and other regulatory bodies. Thorough knowledge of all compliances and regulations related to educational institutions, building statutes, visa for expatriate workers and related norms. The Compliance Officer will ensure that the school adheres to all legal and accreditation requirements, including those set by educational boards (such as CBSE, IB, IGCSE). The role includes monitoring, implementing and advising on policies on compliance, conducting audits, ensuring adherence to safety and ethical standards, and managing necessary documentation and reporting.

**Main Task and Responsibilities**:
1. **Regulatory Compliance**:

- Ensure the school complies with Maharashtra State Education Department regulations, CBSE/ICSE/State Board guidelines, RTE Act, and other relevant educational policies.
- Keep updated with changes in laws and regulations affecting schools.
- Obtain and renew necessary licenses, affiliations, and accreditations.
- Maintain all permits, and regulatory approvals required for school operations.

2. **Policy Implementation & Monitoring**:

- Develop and implement internal policies that align with legal requirements and best practices.
- Ensure school policies align with labor laws, child protection regulations, and safety standards.
- Conduct regular training sessions for staff on compliance, ethics, and school policies.
- Maintain and update the school's policy manual, ensuring accessibility for all stakeholders.

3**. Audits & Inspections**:

- Conduct internal audits to identify potential non-compliance issues.
- Prepare the school for inspections by government authorities, education boards, and other regulatory bodies.
- Ensure proper documentation is maintained for audits and regulatory reviews.

4. **Safety & Child Protection Compliance**:

- Ensure compliance with child safety laws, including POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) Act and POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) guidelines.
- Implement and oversee health, safety, and emergency preparedness protocols in the school.
- Conduct background checks for staff and maintain records of police verification.

5. **Liaison & Reporting**:

- Act as a liaison between the school and regulatory bodies, ensuring smooth communication and compliance.
- Prepare and submit reports required by educational authorities, tax departments, and other agencies.
- Address legal and regulatory queries raised by stakeholders.

6. **Global & Domestic Mobility Support**:

- Manage the end-to-end mobility process for expatriate employees.
- Assist with work permits, visas, and necessary documentation for different countries.
- Ensure compliance with legal requirements in destination countries.

7**. Immigration & Compliance Management**:

- Stay updated on visa regulations, and employment laws.
- Ensure all mobility programs align with company policies and legal requirements.
- Work closely with HR, legal, and external agencies to resolve immigration-relat