At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and build a modern internal audit function for a dynamic SaaS company.
- Company: Join IRIS Software Group, a leader in innovative tech solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time role, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology and collaborate with top experts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping the future of internal audit in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: 10-15 years in Internal Audit, ideally in SaaS or fintech, with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
UK Based (travel occasionally required) Competitive Salary Permanent Full Time Position
About the Role
IRIS Software Group is establishing its first in-house Internal Audit function following two successful years of a fully outsourced model. As Head of Internal Audit, you will build and lead a modern, insight-led assurance capability across IRIS's multi-product SaaS portfolio, including accountancy, payroll/HCM, and education, as well as core group functions and processes. This role combines Third Line (Internal Audit) leadership with support from a co-sourced partner providing internal audit, IT audit, and risk expertise, including specialist areas such as Cyber, Cloud, and Data Privacy. This is a strong opportunity for a high-performing No.2 ready to step up into their first Head of role, with direct exposure to the Audit & Risk Committee and a clear mandate to build the function.
Key Responsibilities
- Own and deliver a dynamic, risk-based internal audit plan aligned to strategic objectives, major change, and principal risks, while establishing the Internal Audit Charter, methodology, and quality framework in line with IIA Global Internal Audit Standards.
- Lead end-to-end audits across operational, financial, compliance, product/technology, and change domains, directing co-sourced SMEs where required, and introducing agile, data-enabled auditing techniques to increase coverage and reduce cycle time.
- Report impactful findings to management and the Audit & Risk Committee, driving timely action closure with a root-cause focus, and plan for an External Quality Assessment (EQA) within 3-5 years.
- Develop an analytics roadmap and implement dashboarding (e.g. Power BI) to support continuous auditing, action tracking, audit KPIs, and risk/trend insights.
- Manage the co-sourced model, working with external partners to flex capability (Cyber, Cloud, Data, Privacy, Regulatory), setting SoWs and SLAs, ensuring quality standards, and enabling knowledge transfer.
- Partner with the Second Line to map and enhance financial, operational, IT (including cyber), and compliance controls, promoting control rationalisation, automation, and over time establishing a control testing programme.
- Provide independent assurance over major change programmes (e.g. product launches, cloud migrations, ERP/HRIS upgrades) and support M&A integration reviews in line with the IRIS M&A Playbook.
- Perform or support internal investigations, drawing on co-sourced expertise as required.
- Facilitate risk-based BCM/DR testing and oversee post-incident reviews to capture control learnings across cyber, technology, and operations.
What we're looking for:
Experience
- 10-15+ years in Internal Audit, ideally within SaaS/technology, payroll, or fintech/payments environments.
- Proven track record leading complex audits end-to-end.
- Exposure to technology and cyber risks (hands-on or via SMEs).
- Experience working in co-sourced and high-change environments.
- M&A integration experience desirable.
Qualifications
- Professional: CMIIA/CIA and/or ACA/ACCA.
- Desirable: CISA, CRISC, ISO 27001 Lead Auditor/Implementer; PRINCE2/Agile PM/Scrum.
- Familiarity with IIA Global Standards (2024), ISO 31000, and UK GDPR.
Skills & Attributes
- Clear, confident communicator with strong executive-level presentation skills.
- Builder's mindset with a pragmatic, outcome-focused approach.
- Strong understanding of current technology risks and ability to direct SMEs effectively.
- Excellent planning, prioritisation, and vendor/contract management skills.
- Independent and confident in challenging where needed, with a collaborative approach.
- Experience working with US regulated companies or within US jurisdiction is highly desirable.
Head of Internal Audit in London employer: Iris Recruitment
IRIS Software Group is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and professional growth are at the forefront. As the Head of Internal Audit, you will have the unique opportunity to shape the internal audit function from the ground up, supported by a collaborative culture that values insight-led decision-making and continuous improvement. With competitive salaries and a commitment to employee development, IRIS fosters a workplace where your contributions directly impact the company's success and your career trajectory.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Internal Audit in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their products, culture, and recent news. We want you to walk in feeling confident and ready to show how your skills align with their needs, especially in areas like risk management and internal audit.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You’ll want to clearly articulate your experience and how it relates to the Head of Internal Audit role. We suggest rehearsing with a friend or in front of a mirror to nail down your delivery and make a great impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. We recommend mentioning something specific from your conversation to show you were engaged and interested.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Internal Audit in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Internal Audit role. Highlight your experience in leading audits, especially in SaaS or technology environments, and showcase any relevant qualifications like CMIIA or CIA.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your past achievements in internal audit and how they align with our goals at IRIS Software Group.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As this role involves building and leading a new function, emphasise your leadership experience. Talk about how you've successfully managed teams and projects in high-change environments.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. This way, we can ensure your application gets the attention it deserves and you can easily track your application status.
How to prepare for a job interview at Iris Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key responsibilities of the Head of Internal Audit role. Brush up on your knowledge of internal audit methodologies, risk management frameworks, and the latest trends in SaaS and technology audits. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're ready to take on this leadership position.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your ability to lead complex audits and manage co-sourced teams. Highlight any experience you have with M&A integrations or working in high-change environments, as these are crucial for this position. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Communicate Clearly
As a Head of Internal Audit, you'll need to present findings to the Audit & Risk Committee. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Consider doing mock presentations to friends or colleagues to refine your executive-level communication skills. Remember, confidence is key!
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's current audit processes, challenges they face, and their vision for the internal audit function. This not only shows your interest in the role but also demonstrates your strategic thinking and understanding of the importance of aligning audit plans with business objectives.
