Internal control officer

Internal Control OfficerDepartment: FinanceLocation: Manchester CampusPosition Type: Permanent - Full‑TimeWorking Hours: 37.5 hours per week (9:00am to 5:00pm)Working Pattern: Monday to FridayReports To: Head of Finance Company DescriptionUK Management College (UKMC) is committed to maintaining high standards of governance, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence. We strive to ensure that our business processes, financial activities, and internal operations follow best‑practice principles, supporting transparency, accountability, and strong organisational performance.Job PurposeThe Internal Control Officer is responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining effective internal control frameworks across the organisation. The post-holder will evaluate internal processes, identify risks, ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, and recommend improvements to strengthen governance.This role requires a detail‑oriented individual with strong analytical skills and the ability to work collaboratively across multiple departments.Key ResponsibilitiesInternal Controls & Compliance• Design, implement, and maintain internal control frameworks, policies, and procedures in line with regulatory and best‑practice standards.• Monitor compliance with internal policies, regulatory requirements, and external standards.• Update and maintain policy manuals and control documentation in partnership with relevant departments.Internal Audits & Risk Management• Conduct regular internal audits, reviews, and assessments to evaluate the effectiveness of internal controls.• Identify, assess, and analyse operational, financial, and compliance risks.• Recommend corrective and preventive actions to strengthen internal controls.• Track and implement recommendations from internal and external audit findings.Reporting & Documentation• Prepare clear, accurate, and timely reports on audit findings, control deficiencies, and remediation progress.• Maintain documentation and audit trails required for governance, senior leadership, and audit committees.• Provide updates to management and senior stakeholders on internal control performance.Stakeholder Collaboration & Support• Provide training, guidance, and support to employees on internal control procedures.• Work closely with Finance, Human Resources, and operational teams to ensure effective implementation of controls.• Liaise with external accountants and auditors during audit engagements.Operational Controls & Efficiency• Identify opportunities for process improvement and operational efficiency.• Support procurement, inventory management, quality control, and related monitoring activities where required.• Ensure all control-related procedures align with organisational goals and risk mitigation frameworks.Person SpecificationEssential• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.• 2–5 years’ experience in internal control, audit, finance, or compliance.• Solid understanding of internal controls, risk management, and audit methodologies.• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.• Ability to work independently, prioritise tasks, and meet deadlines.• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and reporting tools.Desirable• Professional qualifications such as ACCA, CIMA, CIA, or CPA.• Experience working with auditors and supporting external audits.• Proven experience implementing and monitoring internal control systems.Personal Attributes• High ethical standards and strong professional integrity.• Confidential, reliable, and able to handle sensitive information discreetly.• Organised, methodical, and structured approach to work.• Proactive with a continuous improvement mindset.• Strong stakeholder‑management skills and collaborative working style.Career ProgressionThis role provides development opportunities towards:• Senior Internal Control Officer• Internal Control Manager• Internal Auditor / Internal Audit ManagerProgression will be based on performance, capability, and organisational requirements.Benefits• Competitive salary• 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays• Pension scheme• Professional development and training support• Private medical insurance• Employee discounts• Free on‑site parking• Supportive and inclusive work environment