Accountability
I believe that the AOC holder is normal responsible to the Authority to ensure that the unit meets the required UK Legal requirements. The CAA audit this.
Internal company procedures are audited from within and the CAA check that those procedures that are within their remit are being met. Company procedures and standards are dealt with by well qualified members of the team. Any issues that do not come up to scratch are addressed and rectified.
I believe that at least one CAA flight ops members does attend a SAR base for continuation training as well as audits and that he has had a previous SAR (civ) background. Enough said.