Head of Internal Audit
Location: Leicestershire

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced and commercially minded Head of Internal Audit to lead the strategy, planning and delivery of an effective, independent assurance programme across a complex Group environment.

This is a high-profile role, providing independent assurance to Executive Management and the Audit & Risk Committee over the effectiveness of internal controls, risk management, and adherence to Group policies and procedures. The remit spans Group central functions (including IT and Shared Services) as well as Group operational functions.

You will play a key role in supporting management’s formal attestation over internal controls and driving the use of data analytics to enhance assurance quality and coverage. Working closely with the Director, you will also contribute to the ongoing development of the wider Risk and Internal Audit function.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the development and delivery of the Group Internal Audit strategy and annual audit plan

Design and maintain a Total Assurance / assurance mapping framework, demonstrating combined assurance over principal risks and the audit universe

Oversee audits across Group central functions (Finance, HR, Legal, Compliance), IT and systems, Shared Services, and Group operational areas

Develop and manage a robust resource plan to deliver the audit programme in line with Audit & Risk Committee expectations

Provide assurance over Internal Controls over Material Risks (ICoMR), including annual attestation to management

Produce Internal Audit KPI and performance reporting

Continuously enhance risk-based audit approaches to drive efficiency and value

Lead the development and use of data analytics within Internal Audit

Provide assurance over Group fraud risk and deliver ad-hoc independent project assurance

Manage and oversee relevant co-sourced assurance providers

Prepare clear, insightful risk and audit reporting for senior management and the Audit & Risk Committee

Present audit findings to Executive Committee, Audit & Risk Committee and Board level as required

Lead, develop and coach the Group Audit Manager, IT Auditor and wider team

Work closely with External Audit to support statutory audit activity and align assurance over controls

About You

Significant senior internal audit experience within a large, complex or listed organisation

Strong understanding of governance, risk management and internal controls

Proven experience working with Audit Committees and Executive stakeholders

Comfortable leading audits across central functions, operations and IT

Experience with assurance mapping, ICoMR and fraud risk frameworks

A confident leader with the ability to influence, challenge constructively and develop teams

Professional qualification (ACA / ACCA / CIA or equivalent) preferred
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