At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure funding assurance for innovative projects and support stakeholders with expert advice.
- Company: Join Innovate UK, a leader in driving innovation and public funding.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, flexible hours, and a great pension scheme.
- Other info: Diverse workplace with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by managing public money and supporting groundbreaking projects.
- Qualifications: Degree-level education and experience in financial management or auditing.
The predicted salary is between 37841 - 37841 £ per year.
Location: Swindon (Hybrid Working)
Contract: Permanent
Application Deadline: Applications must be submitted by 12-08-2026
Job Purpose: At Innovate UK, project assurance has two important purposes: to ensure appropriate management of public money; and to track and hold project partners to account for maximizing the successes, outcomes and impacts of projects we support. The focus of this role is primarily to ensure that the funding assurance framework is adhered to, and project claims are reviewed as per the risk-based approach and that any internal investigations and site audits are conducted as requested by project finance and the wider business.
Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities:
- The role holder’s main responsibility is to provide funding assurance to a portfolio of Innovate UK’s projects.
- Support and provide expert advice to internal and external stakeholders across a portfolio of projects within a series of Programmes.
- Represent funding assurance in meetings at each of the project phases.
- Use gathered insights to identify project activity risk.
- Conduct analysis of claim trends and behaviours together with continuous review of spend profiles/forecasts to identify, understand and manage funding risks.
- Document key summary of issues and possible mitigations for review/approval.
- Support on-site applicant audits to investigate unresolved issues identified through financial review.
- Review and approve Project Change Requests to ensure project costs and claims remain in line with compliance and eligibility requirements.
- Complete a detailed review of project partner financial claims ensuring compliance with Innovate UK and State Aid requirements.
- Ensure claims adhere to the approved eligible costs.
- Diligent scrutiny of all supporting information records using appropriate investigative techniques.
- Effective liaison with claimants to resolve issues identified through financial review.
- Support other ad-hoc business requirements as necessary.
Person Specification:
- Educated to degree-level or relevant equivalent experience.
- Hands-on experience of working within a process-driven, service-orientated competitive procurement environment.
- Financial management and analytical review experience with focus on quality and attention to detail balanced with cost-effectiveness.
- Experience articulating complex issues to non-experts.
- Financial acumen and rigor with a healthy level of skepticism.
- Audit experience.
- Fraud awareness and understanding.
- Knowledge/awareness of State Aid regulations.
Travel Requirements: There may be the occasional requirement for national travel.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: Innovate UK is a diverse workforce of people. We believe that encouraging these differences and drawing the best from them will build a productive environment in which everyone feels valued.
Employee Benefits: 30 days’ annual leave, 10.5 public and privilege days, flexible working hours, an exceptional defined benefit pension scheme, and access to a variety of support networks and discount schemes.
Flexible Working: We understand the importance of work-life balance, and are happy to discuss the possibility of flexible working with applicants.
Pre-employment Screening: To enable us to hire the very best people we will conduct a comprehensive pre-employment check on successful applicants as part of the recruitment process.
Funding Assurance Officer in Swindon employer: Innovate UK
Innovate UK is an exceptional employer that champions innovation and transformation, offering a dynamic work culture where your contributions directly impact the organisation's strategic direction. With a focus on employee growth, you will have access to comprehensive benefits and opportunities for professional development, all while working in a flexible field-based role with the support of a collaborative team. Located near Swindon, you can enjoy a balance of remote work and occasional office engagement, making it an ideal environment for those looking to drive meaningful change.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Funding Assurance Officer in Swindon
✨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 Innovate UK, 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 Innovate UK 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 Funding Assurance Officer in Swindon
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 Innovate UK 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 Innovate UK
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Innovate UK, 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 Innovate UK.
