Internal Audit Executive

Location: 2 Bristol Avenue, Colindale, London, NW9 4EW

Start Date: ASAP

Contract Duration: Permanent

Working Hours: 37 hours per week

Pay Rate: PAYE: £48,003.00 per year

Job Responsibilities:

• Plan and deliver internal audit assignments in line with the Annual Audit Plan.
• Conduct audits from planning and scoping through to final reporting.
• Carry out compliance reviews and systems-based audits across Council services.
• Apply a risk-based approach to all audit work in accordance with professional auditing standards.
• Complete audit assignments accurately, on time, and within agreed budgets.
• Conduct follow-up reviews to ensure agreed audit actions have been implemented.
• Review financial controls, governance arrangements, and operational processes.
• Assess value for money and identify opportunities for service improvement.
• Identify risks, control weaknesses, and areas requiring further audit attention.
• Provide audit advice, guidance, and assurance to managers and staff across the Council.
• Support the development and continuous improvement of audit methodologies and working practices.
• Participate in projects, investigations, and service development initiatives.
• Prepare clear, concise, and high-quality audit reports and recommendations.
• Deliver training and awareness sessions to Council staff, members, and schools where required.
• Support and mentor junior auditors in their professional development.
• Work closely with the Corporate Anti-Fraud Team and other stakeholders.
• Maintain professional knowledge through continuous professional development (CPD).
• Ensure compliance with Council policies, information security requirements, and professional standards.

Essential Qualifications:

• Degree or equivalent qualification.
• Professional qualification such as CIPFA, AAT, IIA, or another CCAB-recognised qualification.
• Commitment to maintaining Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

Essential Experience:

• Minimum 5 years' experience in an Internal Audit role within a public sector organisation.
• Experience conducting audits independently from planning and scoping through to final reporting.
• Experience undertaking compliance reviews and systems-based audits.
• Experience applying risk-based auditing principles in practice.
• Experience preparing audit reports and presenting findings to management.
• Experience supporting or mentoring junior staff.

Essential Knowledge:

• Strong knowledge of internal auditing principles, standards, and best practices.
• Good understanding of risk-based internal auditing.
• Knowledge of Local Government finance, including Section 151 responsibilities and statutory requirements.
• Understanding of local authority services and operational environments.
• Knowledge of procurement, contracts, governance, and financial control frameworks.
• Understanding of relevant legislation, regulations, and codes of practice.
• Knowledge of information security and data protection requirements.

Essential Skills:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written report-writing skills.
• Strong verbal communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Good organisational and time-management skills.
• Ability to provide practical, risk-based recommendations.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to influence and build effective working relationships across all levels of the organisation.

Personal Attributes:

• Professional, ethical, and objective in approach.
• Proactive and committed to continuous improvement.
• Customer-focused and service-oriented.
• Collaborative team player.
• Able to exercise sound judgement and discretion.
• Committed to delivering high-quality audit and assurance services.