At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct independent audits and provide assurance on financial statements for Heneb.
- Company: Heneb – The Trust for Welsh Archaeology, a dynamic charity and limited company.
- Benefits: Opportunity to work with a growing organisation and contribute to heritage management.
- Other info: Initial 3-year contract with potential for extension based on performance.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the charity sector while ensuring strong financial governance.
- Qualifications: Experience in auditing charities or not-for-profit organisations is essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Introduction
Heneb – The Trust for Welsh Archaeology (“Heneb”) invites suitably qualified firms to tender for the provision of external audit services.
Heneb was established on 1 April 2024 following the merger of the four regional Welsh Archaeological Trusts.
It operates as both a registered charity and a limited company, delivering professional archaeological services, heritage management advice, and maintaining the Historic Environment Record for Wales on behalf of Welsh Government Minsters.
Heneb seeks to appoint an auditor to provide independent assurance on its annual financial statements and to support strong financial governance as the organisation continues to grow and embed post‑merger arrangements.
- Scope of Services
- Conduct an independent audit of Heneb’s annual statutory accounts in accordance with: - Companies Act requirements - Charity SORP (FRS 102) - Relevant auditing standards
- Provide: - Audit opinion on annual financial statements - A management letter highlighting findings and recommendations - Advice on accounting and regulatory developments where appropriate
- Liaise with: - Chief Executive - Head of Finance and Business Services - Chair of the Finance Committee and Trustees
- Attend (as required): - Finance Committee meeting(s) - Annual General Meeting (as requested)
- Contract Period
To reflect good practice in auditor rotation and ensure periodic market testing: Initial appointment: 3 years, with the option to extend annually up to a maximum of 5 years, subject to satisfactory performance.
Organisational Context
Heneb
- Employs professional archaeological staff across Wales (x 68)
- Delivers both grant‑funded public services and commercial field services
- Operates within a regulated heritage and charity environment and is a Registered Organisation with the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists
- Is committed to high standards of governance, transparency, and public accountability
- Tender Requirements
- Your Profile and Experience
- An overview of the firm/auditor
- Relevant experience in auditing: Charities, Not‑for‑profit or public sector bodies & Comparable organisations in scale or complexity (turnover £3.5m per annum / 68 employees)
- Proposed Approach
- Audit methodology
- Approach to risk assessment and materiality
- Use of digital tools
- Approach to keeping the audit process proportionate and efficient.
- Team and Resourcing
- Your key personnel and their roles in the audit process
- Experience of the engagement team
- Continuity arrangements
- Fees
- Your proposed annual audit fee and structure
- Added Value
- Any additional support or insights offered (e. g. governance advice, sector updates)
- We are particularly keen to hear about e. g. Trustee training, Executive team training
- Evaluation Criteria
- Professional credibility and track record
- Understanding of Heneb’s operating context
- Quality and clarity of proposed audit approach
- Value for money
- Ease and effectiveness of working relationship
These criteria reflect the Finance Committee’s emphasis on sector expertise, credibility, and collaborative working.
- Tender Process and Timetable
- Issue of tender: 22 June 2026
- Deadline for submissions: 22 July 2026
- Shortlisting: By 29 July 2026
- Interviews/presentations: By end September 2026
- Appointment recommendation to Board: By end October 2026
- Formal appointment (AGM or Board approval): November 2026
Heneb reserves the right to
- Use both an open and selective tender approach
- Not appoint if no suitable submissions are received
- Instructions for Submission
Submissions should be provided electronically (PDF format) to hello@heneb. org. uk by 22 July 2026, 5pm.
Queries should be directed to: Richard Nicholls (Chief Executive) and Denise Jones (Head of Finance and Business Services).
Governance and Appointment
The appointment will be recommended by the Finance Committee and approved by the Trustees of Heneb, in accordance with company and charity governance requirements.
Additional Information
Further information about Heneb can be found at heneb. org. uk Additional financial and governance information may be shared with shortlisted bidders.
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Tender Brief: Appointment of External Auditor employer: Heneb: The Trust for Welsh Archaeology
Heneb – The Trust for Welsh Archaeology is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to the preservation of Wales' rich heritage while ensuring strong financial governance. With a commitment to high standards of transparency and accountability, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture that fosters professional growth and development within the charity sector. Located in Wales, Heneb provides a supportive environment where your expertise can make a meaningful impact on both the organisation and the communities it serves.
Contact Details:
Heneb: The Trust for Welsh Archaeology Recruitment Team
