At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the resolution of audit complaints and manage public accountability processes.
- Company: Grant Thornton, a forward-thinking firm driving positive change in the audit industry.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, inclusive culture, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Engage in meaningful work that contributes to society and fosters personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public trust while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with public sector audit experience and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 56700 - 69300 £ per year.
At Grant Thornton we do things differently - looking to the future, driving ambitious growth and pioneering positive change in our industry. Providing audit, tax and advisory services, we empower clients through strategic insight, curiosity, and genuine partnership. And we empower our people with real opportunity, an inclusive culture and work life balance.
Our UK audit practice is built of over 2300 people working across 24 locations. We’re really proud of the strong position our audit practice is in from a wellbeing, resource and quality perspective, the latter of which is shown through our recent positive AQR results. Grant Thornton is one of the UK's leading providers of local audit services, appointed by the local audit body to audit hundreds of local government and NHS bodies across England. Our Public Sector Audit team plays a vital role in maintaining public trust and accountability in local public finances.
We are looking for an experienced Senior Manager to join our specialist team, focusing on the oversight and resolution of formal processes that arise from our local audit work. This is a high-profile, intellectually demanding role at the heart of public accountability — requiring sound regulatory judgement, technical audit expertise, and strong stakeholder management skills. This role reports directly to the Public Sector Audit Partner lead.
Life is about more than work. The things you do, and the people you’re with outside of work matter, that’s why we’re happy to look at flexible working options for all our roles, whether that’s reduced or condensed hours, job shares, we’ll always do our best to keep your work and life in balance. Everyone in the firm is encouraged to work in a hybrid way.
Embracing uniqueness, the culture at Grant Thornton thrives on the contributions of all our people. Building an inclusive culture, where we value difference and respect our colleagues helps our people to perform at the best of their ability and realise their potential. Our open and accessible culture means you’ll interact with leaders who are interested in you and everything you bring to our firm.
As a Senior Public Sector Audit Complaints and Objections Manager within our Public Sector Audit service line, you will:
- Complaints handling: Lead the management and resolution of complaints relating to Grant Thornton's local audit work, ensuring responses are robust, evidence-based and compliant with the relevant complaints framework.
- Objections under the Local Audit and Accountability Act 2014: Manage the end-to-end process for local elector objections to audited accounts.
- Whistleblowing allegations: Act as a key point of contact for whistleblowing disclosures relevant to audited bodies.
- Matters brought to auditors' attention: Respond to matters raised by electors and others under auditing standards and the National Audit Code for local audit.
The role also involves contributing to the development of internal guidance and policies on these processes, supporting training across the local audit practice, and working closely with our technical and quality teams. You will represent Grant Thornton externally in formal correspondence and, on occasion, in meetings with regulators and audited bodies.
Knowing you’re right for us: Qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA or equivalent), local government or public sector audit experience, knowledge of the LAAA 2014 and the National Audit Code, strong written communication and analytical skills, confident stakeholder and relationship management, ability to manage multiple complex matters simultaneously, a curiosity about public accountability and a commitment to the public interest are essential.
It would be great if you had some of the following skills, but don’t worry if you don’t tick every box, we’ll help you develop along the way: Experience in a regulatory, legal, or complaints environment, familiarity with audit quality and oversight frameworks.
The impact you can make here will go far beyond your day job. From secondments, to fundraising for local charities, or investing in entrepreneurs in the developing world, you’ll be giving back to society. It’s that drive to do the right thing that runs through our every move, grounded in our firm’s values – purposefully driven, actively curious and candid but kind.
Senior Public Sector Audit Complaints and Objections Manager in Birmingham employer: Grant Thornton
Grant Thornton offers an exceptional work environment for cybersecurity auditors in the heart of the City of London, where you can thrive in a supportive Agile Talent Community. With a focus on career development and meaningful client connections, you'll enjoy the flexibility of independent contracting while benefiting from a collaborative culture that prioritises your growth and expertise in UK compliance. Join us to make a significant impact in the cybersecurity landscape while enjoying the unique advantages of working in one of the world's leading financial hubs.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Public Sector Audit Complaints and Objections Manager in Birmingham
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Grant Thornton, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Grant Thornton and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Public Sector Audit Complaints and Objections Manager in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Grant Thornton and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Grant Thornton
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Grant Thornton, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Grant Thornton.
