Job Description
Summary:
3 Months Contract
The Senior Auditor is a pivotal role responsible for executing assignments within the Internal Audit Plan, encompassing both financial and non-financial controls. This position involves collaboration with partners and schools to ensure the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls for the Council and its affiliates. The Senior Auditor will identify risks, evaluate controls, and provide assurance opinions across a diverse range of services. This role is crucial in offering clients independent assurance that services align with statutory requirements, risks are managed effectively, control systems are appropriate, and value for money is achieved in accordance with the Council’s objectives.
Responsibilities:
* Plan and execute audit assignments in consultation with audit management, adhering to professional standards and internal quality procedures.
* Prepare draft reports and working papers documenting audit evidence for management review, ensuring logical and procedural compliance.
* Develop and maintain expertise in audit and risk management techniques, staying aware of organizational risks and necessary controls.
* Ensure services meet customer needs equitably and align with service standards and Council priorities.
* Represent Internal Audit as required, both within the Council and with external partners.
* Foster effective relationships with all parties involved in the Audit Plan and individual audits.
* Address ad hoc queries and provide guidance to service department management as needed.
* Ensure ongoing quality of Internal Audits, complying with Public Sector Internal Audit Standards, the Code of Ethics, and the Internal Audit Manual.
Requirements
* Education, Qualifications, and Training:
o Essential: Qualified Accounting Technician (AAT) or part-qualified in CIPFA/PIIA/CMIIA/CCAB.
o Desirable: Fully qualified in CIPFA/PIIA/CMIIA/CCAB.
* Experience and Knowledge:
o Practical knowledge of Internal Audit, risk management, and finance across various services.
o Understanding of risks, controls, and materiality in financial and non-financial systems.
o Familiarity with Internal Audit principles, standards, and procedures, especially Public Sector Internal Audit Standards.
o Knowledge of data protection and confidentiality issues.
o Appreciation of financial accounting practices in Local Government and/or schools.
* Ability and Skills:
o Strong time management and prioritisation skills to meet deadlines and manage multiple tasks.
o Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Word and Excel, with the ability to interrogate financial systems.
o Capable of producing clear, well-presented reports and effectively communicating audit results.
o Ability to develop constructive working relationships and respond to queries with a customer-focused approach.
o Confident in working with managers at all levels, raising concerns, and challenging responses to audit findings.
o Skilled in supporting, supervising, and training team members, and collaborating on audit assignments.
o Analytical skills to identify, analyse, and interpret relevant data for drawing audit conclusions.
* Equal Opportunities:
o Demonstrated awareness and understanding of equal opportunities and the diverse needs of individuals.
* Additional Factors:
o Adherence to professional and legal standards, such as the Public Sector Internal Audit Standards and CIPFA Codes of Practice.
o Proficiency in using time recording software to document work tasks.
Requirements
CCAB/CIMA qualified accountant. Public sector finance leadership experience. Knowledge of statutory financial frameworks. Experience with emergency services finance. Strong stakeholder and communication skills. Ability to lead in complex organisations. Desirable: CIPFA qualification. Experience in Combined Authority governance. Familiarity with regional funding mechanisms. Understanding of Police and Fire funding formulae. Experience in M&A or commercial investment planning.