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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead assurance functions and provide strategic advice to enhance public service in Lewisham.
- Company: Join Lewisham Council, a pioneer in supporting refugees and diverse communities.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holidays, pension schemes, and staff discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a vibrant community while shaping governance and risk management.
- Qualifications: Must have professional accounting qualifications and experience in audit or risk management.
- Other info: Hybrid work model with occasional evening commitments; enhanced DBS check required.
The predicted salary is between 66100 - 74000 £ per year.
Job Description
Discover yourself in Lewisham where what you do makes a difference to our vibrant and culturally diverse communities!
We have a rich history of welcoming people from all over the world and are proud to be recognised as the UK’s first Borough of Sanctuary, for our work in championing the rights of refugees and migrants.
Introduction
Are you a dedicated professional with expertise in audit, risk management and governance ? Do you have a sharp strategic vision and a passion for delivering exceptional public service in a dynamic, diverse community?
What’s the role?
As the Head of Assurance , you will oversee Lewisham Council’s Internal Audit, Counter-Fraud, Risk, Health & Safety and Insurance functions, ensuring robust governance, risk management and control. Acting as the Council’s Chief Audit Executive, you’ll provide strategic advice to senior leadership and Members, drive a proactive counter-fraud culture and lead on health and safety initiatives. The role demands a leader with expertise to shape assurance strategy, deliver real service improvements and uphold the Council’s commitment to excellence in public service.
What’s in it for you?
Excellent training and development opportunities, plus a range of benefits including:
- Generous holiday allowance
- Local Government Pension scheme
- Flexible working and family friendly policies
- Season ticket and bicycle loans
- A range of staff discounts including local subsidised gym memberships
- Supportive staff networks
What we’re looking for
You’ll be an accomplished and inspiring professional with a strong track record in one or more of the fields of audit, risk management, governance and health and safety within complex organisations. You will be qualified under the Global Internal Audit Standards to act at the Council’s Chief Audit Executive and have a deep understanding of local government structures, statutory responsibilities and best practices. Exceptional strategic and people management skills are essential, along with the ability to engage and influence senior leaders, elected members and external stakeholders. You will have experience of fostering a culture of accountability and delivering innovative, value-driven outcomes. An ethical and principled leader, a strong commitment to public service, equality and equity will underpin everything you do.
Location
The job is primarily based in Laurence House, Catford, London, SE6 4RU but we operate a hybrid approach where you will be required to work both in the office and from home on a regular basis.
Special conditions
- A professional accounting qualification (e.g. CIPFA, CIMA) or CMIIA is required to act as Chief Audit Executive
- Occasional evening working to support Member committees will be required.
- The job is subject to an enhanced DBS check.
Salary
£77,157 – £83,448 per annum (SMG3).
N.B: All appointments will be offered at the minimum spinal column point (SCP) for the grade of the role. The only exception to this will be when matching current salary (up to the maximum of the scale), which is subject to evidential proof.
Diversity
Lewisham Council is a Disability Confident employer. We welcome and encourage job applications of all abilities. If you require any reasonable adjustments in the application or interview, please contact the lead contact on this advert. We will make reasonable adjustments to make sure our disabled applicants and those with health conditions are supported throughout our recruitment process. We support the access to work scheme, further details are available at Council has a dedicated employment support service, Lewisham Works, which offers Lewisham residents guidance in relation to applying for jobs. If you want to join Lewisham Works, please email and an advisor will be in touch with you.
The Council reserves the right to close adverts early if there is a large response.#J-18808-Ljbffr
Head of Assurance employer: Lewisham Council
Contact Detail:
Lewisham Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Assurance
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with Lewisham Council's strategic goals and recent initiatives. Understanding their priorities will help you align your vision and demonstrate how your expertise in audit and risk management can contribute to their objectives.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Lewisham Council, especially those in leadership roles. This can provide you with valuable insights into the council's culture and expectations, which you can leverage during your discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully implemented governance and risk management strategies in previous roles. Highlighting measurable outcomes will showcase your ability to deliver real service improvements.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends and best practices in public sector audit and risk management. Being knowledgeable about the latest developments will position you as a forward-thinking candidate who can drive innovation within the council.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Assurance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Head of Assurance position. Understand the key responsibilities, required qualifications, and the skills that are emphasized, such as audit expertise and strategic vision.
Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to highlight your experience in audit, risk management, and governance. Use specific examples that demonstrate your leadership skills and your ability to deliver exceptional public service.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for public service and your commitment to diversity and inclusion. Address how your background aligns with the Council's values and the specific requirements of the role.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Ensure you mention your professional accounting qualifications (e.g., CIPFA, CIMA) clearly in your application. This is crucial for acting as the Chief Audit Executive and will strengthen your candidacy.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lewisham Council
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Make sure you have a clear understanding of the Head of Assurance role, including the key functions like Internal Audit, Counter-Fraud, Risk, Health & Safety, and Insurance. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with these responsibilities.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Vision
Demonstrate your strategic thinking skills by discussing past experiences where you've shaped assurance strategies or delivered service improvements. Highlight your ability to engage with senior leadership and influence decision-making.
✨Emphasize Your Commitment to Public Service
Lewisham Council values public service and community engagement. Share examples that illustrate your dedication to ethical leadership, equality, and equity in your previous roles.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in audit, risk management, and governance. Prepare specific examples that showcase your ability to foster a culture of accountability and deliver innovative outcomes.
