At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic remediation and transformation projects in controls testing for a major UK bank.
- Company: Join a leading UK retail bank serving over 17 million customers with diverse banking services.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, with just one day in the office per week.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative team, enhancing controls testing methodologies and making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Strong background in controls testing leadership and enterprise controls frameworks required.
- Other info: Immediate start available; work through Umbrella or PAYE engagement model.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Our client, a major UK retail bank, provides everyday banking services to over 17 million retail customers. The bank's expertise and services span across Business Services, Corporate Banking, Wealth Management, Group Functions, Retail and Investment Banking.
On behalf of this organisation, AMS are looking for a Deputy Head of Controls Testing for a 6-month contract on a hybrid basis just 1-day/week in either Manchester or Edinburgh (per candidate preference). This role is expected to be a single-stage interview for an immediate start.
Purpose of the Role: This role is for a Deputy Head of Controls Testing at one of the UK's best-known retail and investment banks. Our client is undergoing significant change in their controls testing function following an extended vacancy in the Head of Controls Testing role. With a new internal Head of Testing joining shortly, the team faces a substantial backlog of testing, outstanding audit actions, and transformation initiatives including automation and methodology redesign. This role will act as a strategic delivery lead, working alongside the new Head to execute remediation activities and support wider change initiatives across the controls landscape.
Responsibilities of the role:
- Support the newly appointed Head of Controls Testing in executing strategic remediation and transformation projects.
- Lead the delivery of control remediation plans stemming from recent audit findings.
- Coordinate with Internal Audit and 2LoD to implement an automated controls testing tool.
- Act as a liaison across multiple internal stakeholders, ensuring alignment and timely delivery of key outcomes.
- Contribute to the development and rollout of new controls testing methodologies.
- Identify and resolve people and process-related issues affecting the effectiveness of the testing function.
- Assist in enhancing shareholder and stakeholder engagement approaches relating to controls assurance.
What we require from the candidate:
- Strong understanding of enterprise controls frameworks and non-financial risk management.
- Proven experience in controls testing leadership or transformation (ideally ex-Head of Testing or similar).
- Familiarity with control environments in large financial institutions, particularly those undergoing change.
- Confident stakeholder manager, able to work across audit, compliance, and risk teams.
- Strategic thinker with hands-on execution ability - comfortable working in a fast-moving, complex environment.
- Self-starter with excellent organisational and problem-solving skills.
- Advanced Excel skills are desirable; data analytics and automation experience a significant advantage though non-essential.
Next steps: This client will only accept workers operating via an Umbrella or PAYE engagement model. If you are interested in applying for this position and meet the criteria outlined above, please click the link to apply and we will contact you with an update in due course.
Deputy Head of Testing - Alexander Mann Solutions (Contingent) employer: Alexander Mann Solutions (Contingent)
Contact Detail:
Alexander Mann Solutions (Contingent) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Head of Testing - Alexander Mann Solutions (Contingent)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific controls frameworks used in large financial institutions. Understanding these frameworks will not only help you speak confidently during discussions but also demonstrate your expertise in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the banking and controls testing sectors. Engaging with others in the industry can provide insights into current trends and challenges, which you can reference in conversations with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with transformation projects, particularly those involving automation and methodology redesign. Highlighting your hands-on experience in these areas will set you apart as a candidate who can contribute immediately.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your stakeholder management skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully liaised with various teams in previous roles. This will illustrate your ability to navigate complex environments and drive alignment across departments.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head of Testing - Alexander Mann Solutions (Contingent)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before you start writing your application, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Deputy Head of Controls Testing position. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in controls testing leadership and transformation.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your proven experience in controls testing and any familiarity with control environments in large financial institutions. Use specific examples to demonstrate your strategic thinking and hands-on execution ability.
Showcase Stakeholder Management Skills: Since the role requires confident stakeholder management, include examples of how you've successfully liaised with various teams, such as audit, compliance, and risk. This will show that you can effectively coordinate with internal stakeholders.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread it for any errors or inconsistencies. A well-written application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a role that involves managing controls and audits.
How to prepare for a job interview at Alexander Mann Solutions (Contingent)
✨Understand the Role Thoroughly
Before the interview, make sure you have a solid grasp of the Deputy Head of Controls Testing role. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and challenges mentioned in the job description, especially around strategic remediation and transformation projects.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous leadership roles in controls testing or transformation. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully led teams through change, particularly in large financial institutions.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Management Skills
Since this role involves liaising with multiple internal stakeholders, come ready with examples of how you've effectively managed relationships across audit, compliance, and risk teams. This will show your ability to navigate complex environments.
✨Prepare for Strategic Thinking Questions
Expect questions that assess your strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities. Think about scenarios where you've had to develop and implement new methodologies or resolve process-related issues, and be ready to share those experiences.