Assistant Director of Data and Assurance National College Group (Education) Full Time/Permanent Newcastle £47-49K We are searching for an Assistant Director of Data and Assurance for a national college group based in Newcastle. Reporting into the Director of Business Assurance and Risk, the appointed individual will deliver a portfolio of risk and assurance activities designed to protect and enhance the business. This role goes beyond traditional Internal Audit by delivering an assurance offer that drives value and supports implementation of the group's strategy. The new Assistant Director of Data and Assurance will also contribute to maintaining high standards of data protection across the business. This is a varied and hands-on role where the Assistant Director of Data and Assurance will pay a key part in supporting their risk, assurance, and data protection activities. The successful candidate will ideally have experience of leading internal audits across a complex organisation. Previous management experience would be preferred. Responsibilities: To support the Director of Business Assurance and Risk in: Carrying out high quality advisory reviews to support management in discrete areas that may be less established or where the subject matter does not lend itself to a formal audit as part of the internal audit plan; ensuring reviews are undertaken in accordance with professional standards and with minimum supervision. Confidently leading planning, scoping and feedback meetings with senior stakeholders when undertaking risk, assurance and advisory activities. Documenting advisory and assurance work to a high standard and in adherence with professional standards. Working collaboratively and effectively with their assurance partners. This includes overseeing the timely and successful delivery of the internal audit plan which is outsourced to our audit partner. Consistently seeking ways to modernise the assurance offer and challenge existing methods to drive continuous improvement (including the use of IT / Data analytical tools as available). Proactively delivering the follow up of recommendations process. Coaching and mentoring more junior staff and providing support as required. Establishing positive relationships with group staff, championing the assurance offer and supporting key stakeholders to recognise the value of assurance. Preparing high-quality Audit and Risk Committee papers which require little / no rework. Investigating and responding to data security incidents and overseeing the implementation of actions. Supervising and supporting the Data Protection Compliance Officer to ensure requests ie information requests/ data right requests/ requests from law enforcement authorities are actioned in line with relevant legislation. Overseeing and supporting progress against the ICO’s Accountability Framework. This includes working with the Data Protection Compliance Officer, the Records Management Officer and with wider stakeholders to implement actions and strengthen compliance. Experience: Thorough understanding of the principles of risk management, internal control and internal audit practices. Experience of leading internal audits across a complex organisation (ideally within the education sector). Experience in general data auditing The ability to quickly understand policies and procedures and apply auditing principles. Strong analytical skills and ability to draw conclusions from audit fieldwork, and make suggestions as to possible improvements to internal control. Excellent administration and organisational skills, including the ability to produce accurate and succinct reports. Excellent communication skills with the ability to persuade, influence and negotiate with others (at all levels). Committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. Able to obtain clear DBS Certificate