Audit Associate, Apprentice in Bolton

This role offers a significant opportunity to shape and strengthen how assurance operates at AQA. You will lead audit activity that provides confidence in governance, risk management and internal controls, while helping the organisation learn and improve. Your work will support a culture of accountability, proportionate challenge and continuous improvement across AQA.

Purpose of the role

In this role, you will lead internal audit and assurance activity across AQA, ensuring audits are risk based, insightful and aligned to organisational priorities. You will provide independent assurance to senior leaders, the Internal Control Group, the Audit, Risk and Compliance Committee and the Board of Trustees on the effectiveness of controls, governance and risk management processes. By leading a small team of auditors and working closely with stakeholders, you will help raise assurance maturity, embed consistent audit practices and ensure findings translate into meaningful and proportionate improvement.

Key responsibilities

• Leading the planning, delivery and reporting of risk based internal audits that provide clear, practical insight.
• Managing and developing a small team of internal auditors, ensuring quality, consistency and professional growth.
• Building strong relationships with senior stakeholders and governance forums to ensure audit outcomes are understood and acted upon.

What we are looking for

• Substantial experience delivering and leading internal audits in complex or regulated environments.
• Strong understanding of internal audit, risk management and control frameworks.
• The ability to influence, challenge and support stakeholders constructively at all levels.
• Proven people management skills, including coaching and developing audit capability.
• CMIIA or CIA (preferred), demonstrating senior internal audit credibility.
• ACA or ACCA acceptable where accompanied by substantial internal audit leadership experience.

What's in it for you

• This role combines leadership, influence and professional challenge, offering you the opportunity to make a visible impact.
• The chance to shape and mature AQA's internal assurance capability.
• A 35-hour working week with flexible, hybrid working.
• 25 days' annual leave (rising to 30), plus Christmas closure days.
• Excellent pension (up to 11.5% employer contribution).
• Private medical insurance, life assurance and wellbeing benefits.

Diversity and inclusion

At AQA, we are committed to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity and promotes equity and inclusion. We believe that a diverse team brings richer perspectives and drives better outcomes. Our ED&I strategy ensures that everyone-regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, or background-is valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. We actively promote inclusive language, avoid stereotypes, and strive for representation across all dimensions of diversity. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences.

Application process

To apply, submit your CV and a short supporting statement outlining your suitability for the role. The application deadline is Sunday 5th July. The selection process will include an initial interview held remotely, followed by a face to face interview in Manchester.