At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a respected internal audit team, providing insights and recommendations for improvement.
- Company: Join Thames Valley Police, the largest non-metropolitan force with a commitment to innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, flexible working, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Hybrid working environment with a variety of audit responsibilities across multiple areas.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on decision-making and service improvement in a trusted role.
- Qualifications: Experienced audit professional with strong leadership and independent judgement skills.
The predicted salary is between 71429 - 71429 £ per year.
The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) for Thames Valley is seeking a Chief Internal Auditor to lead a small but highly respected team that plays an important role across Thames Valley Police. This position offers genuine variety and influence, ideal for someone who enjoys understanding how things work and helping people improve their processes.
The internal audit function is a joint team covering both the Police Force and the Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner. Internal audit here is not a tick-box exercise; it adds real value by offering insight, constructive challenge, and practical recommendations that help the organisation operate effectively and make informed decisions.
In this role, you will work closely with senior leaders and engage with teams at all levels to understand the operational landscape. This mix of strategic and operational insight makes the role both interesting and rewarding.
What we're looking for:
- You will be an experienced audit professional with a clear, balanced perspective and the confidence to offer independent judgement.
- This role involves more than managing and delivering an audit programme; you will provide leadership to ensure that the internal audit function is influential and demonstrates added value to the organisation.
- We are open to receiving applications on a full-time or part-time basis (minimum 0.5 FTE with flexibility to be available for key governance meetings).
What you can expect:
- Plenty of variety - Every week looks different. You will lead internal audit as well as deliver your own audits covering finance, governance, criminal justice, local policing, operations, change programmes, and more.
- A respected role - Internal audit is seen as a trusted partner with genuine influence on the business. Your advice will be valued, and your work will shape how the organisation manages risk and drives improvement.
- A chance to make a difference - Your recommendations will directly support better decision-making, improved service to the public, and stronger controls.
- Scope to develop the service - You will have the freedom to design a risk-based audit plan and introduce new ideas, tools, and approaches.
- Flexible working - We offer a hybrid working environment where staff work in person at least one day per week as needed to fulfil their responsibilities.
If you are looking for a role as a respected senior leader, where your independence is valued, and you can genuinely help shape the way the organisation operates, we would be delighted to hear from you.
As part of the Thames Valley Police family, you will enjoy a fantastic range of benefits including 30 days annual leave per annum (pro-rata for part-time), flexible working conditions, a wide range of lifestyle discounts, career development opportunities, and the option to join a local government pension scheme.
To apply for this post, please attach a cover letter of no more than one page and a CV of no more than two pages. Note: CVs will not be accepted without a cover letter or if the CV exceeds two pages.
Interviews are planned for the 25th June 2026.
Chief Internal Auditor (OPCC) in Kidlington employer: Adecco
The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) for Thames Valley is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where your expertise as Chief Internal Auditor will be valued and impactful. With a commitment to continuous improvement, you will enjoy flexible working arrangements, a generous benefits package including 30 days annual leave, and ample opportunities for professional development, all while contributing to meaningful change within the community. Join a respected team that prioritises innovation and collaboration, making a real difference in public service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Internal Auditor (OPCC) in Kidlington
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who might have insights into the OPCC or similar roles. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the OPCC and Thames Valley Police thoroughly. Understand their values and recent initiatives so you can tailor your responses and show how you can add real value to their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! In your conversations and interviews, highlight your experience in leading teams and driving improvements. They want someone who can influence and inspire, so let that shine through.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Internal Auditor (OPCC) in Kidlington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure it’s no more than one page and clearly outlines why you’re the perfect fit for the Chief Internal Auditor role. Highlight your experience and how it aligns with the values of Thames Valley Police.
Keep Your CV Concise:Remember, your CV should be no longer than two pages. Focus on relevant experience that showcases your leadership skills and audit expertise. Tailor it to reflect the specific requirements mentioned in the job description.
Showcase Your Impact:In both your cover letter and CV, don’t just list your duties; show how you’ve made a difference in previous roles. Use examples that demonstrate your ability to provide insight and add value, as this is key for the internal audit function.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Adecco
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your audit knowledge and the specific challenges faced by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner. Familiarise yourself with their recent reports and any ongoing initiatives. This will show that you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Chief Internal Auditor, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead a team effectively. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed teams or projects, highlighting how you influenced positive change and added value.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and judgement. Think about scenarios where you've had to provide constructive feedback or navigate complex situations. Be ready to discuss how you approached these challenges and the outcomes.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the organisation. Inquire about their current audit strategies or how they measure the impact of internal audits. This shows your strategic thinking and genuine interest in the position.
