Head of Internal Audit

JOB PURPOSE

Reporting to the Chair of the Audit Committee, with a dotted line to the CEO, the Head of Internal Audit has a critical role in providing independent assurance that the Bank’s risk management, governance, and internal control processes are operating effectively. The role oversees the Internal Audit function, working closely with external partners and colleagues in executing audits across the organisation’s operations, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and enhancing the effectiveness of the Bank’s operations.

The position requires a strategic thinker with in-depth knowledge of the financial services sector, particularly private banking. The successful candidate will have strong leadership capabilities, excellent analytical and communication skills, and the highest standards of integrity and independence. The role could be located in Edinburgh or London.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES / KEY DUTIES

Leadership and Management

• Lead the Internal Audit team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and rigour.
• Develop and implement the internal audit strategy and annual audit plan aligned with the Bank's strategic objectives and risk profile.
• Ensure the internal audit department is effectively resourced and operates efficiently, maintaining a high standard of audit quality and appropriate objectivity and independence.

Audit Planning and Execution

• Conduct comprehensive risk assessments to identify key areas of risk and determine the scope of audits.
• Oversee the execution of audit engagements, ensuring thorough documentation and adherence to professional standards.
• Review and approve audit reports, ensuring findings are communicated effectively to stakeholders.

Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure the Bank’s internal audit function complies with relevant UK regulations, including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) requirements.
• Maintain an understanding of evolving regulatory requirements and their implications for the Bank’s internal audit processes.

Stakeholder Engagement and Reporting

• Build and maintain strong relationships with the Board Audit Committee and its Chair, CEO and Executive Management Committee (EMC), and other stakeholders, providing insights and recommendations based on audit findings.
• Present audit findings to the Board and Audit Committee, highlighting key risks, control deficiencies, and areas for improvement.
• Attendance at the Executive Risk Committee, reporting on progress of the Board annual audit plan and any issues identified.
• Attendance at EMC, with the right of attendance at any other committee as required.

Continuous Improvement

• Promote a culture of risk awareness and sound control throughout the Bank, driving initiatives to improve processes and internal controls.
• Stay up to date with industry trends and best practices in internal auditing and risk management to enhance the audit function.

Reporting and Communication

• Prepare and deliver regular reports to Board and executive committees regarding the status of the audit plan, results of audits, and follow-up actions.
• Communicate audit results clearly and effectively, providing actionable recommendations for risk mitigation and control enhancements.

REQUIRED QUALIFCATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, & SKILLS

• Bachelor’s degree with a relevant professional qualification (e.g., ACA, CIMA, ACCA, CIA) is preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in internal audit, risk management, financial control or a related field within the financial services industry, with at least 5 years in a management or leadership role.
• In-depth knowledge of banking operations, risk and policy frameworks, and regulatory requirements in the UK; familiarity with best practices in internal auditing.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels while maintaining independence, impartiality and the ability to challenge effectively.
• Proven ability to manage complex deliverables, prioritise effectively, and meet deadlines under pressure.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

About us

At Hampden Bank, we provide private banking as it should be: approachable, accessible expertise delivered through loyal, long-lasting client relationships. Personalised service is at the core of our business, with a culture that is built on relationships. We take the time to get to know our clients to help them achieve their aspirations.

Why join us

As a growing and ambitious company, we seek people to join our team who share our values; Proud Ownership, Absolute Integrity, Total Inclusivity, Winning Teamwork and Purposeful Growth. 

We are committed to an inclusive culture where everyone is comfortable to be their authentic self. We recognise, value and respect diverse cultures, knowledge, and identities. We work together to ensure collaboration, development, and success for everyone, supporting them to thrive and reach their potential.

We offer exciting career opportunities through professional and personal development, and have an extensive range of benefits you can enjoy.

To apply

Please submit your CV by the closing date. Please remember, on occasion we do receive more applications than expected we may bring the closing date forward, so please do apply promptly.

If you require reasonable adjustments to be made during the recruitment process, please let us know by contacting the People Team and we will endeavour assist you.

If you are excited about this opportunity and think you can bring value to the role and Hampden Bank, but your experience does not align perfectly with every aspect of what we are looking for, we would be happy to hear from you.

If you have any questions or are interested in learning more about the role, please contact the People Team and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Hybrid working / flexible working

We support hybrid working and our policy is that colleagues spend at least 60% of their working week in the office to connect and collaborate with their colleagues.

We are open to considering requests from candidates who are looking for flexible arrangements. Please talk to us at interview about the flexibility you are looking for, and we will explore what is possible for the role. We cannot promise to meet every request, but we will not judge you for asking.