Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the internal audit strategy and ensure effective risk management across a complex organisation.
- Company: Join a leading recruitment consultancy with a strong presence in the Midlands.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and opportunities to influence key decisions.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by enhancing governance and internal controls in a high-profile role.
- Qualifications: Significant senior internal audit experience and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for career growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and commercially minded Head of Internal Audit to lead the strategy, planning and delivery of an effective, independent assurance programme across a complex Group environment. This is a high-profile role, providing independent assurance to Executive Management and the Audit & Risk Committee over the effectiveness of internal controls, risk management, and adherence to Group policies and procedures. The remit spans Group central functions (including IT and Shared Services) as well as Group operational functions. You will play a key role in supporting management's formal attestation over internal controls and driving the use of data analytics to enhance assurance quality and coverage. Working closely with the Director, you will also contribute to the ongoing development of the wider Risk and Internal Audit function.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development and delivery of the Group Internal Audit strategy and annual audit plan
- Design and maintain a Total Assurance / assurance mapping framework, demonstrating combined assurance over principal risks and the audit universe
- Oversee audits across Group central functions (Finance, HR, Legal, Compliance), IT and systems, Shared Services, and Group operational areas
- Develop and manage a robust resource plan to deliver the audit programme in line with Audit & Risk Committee expectations
- Provide assurance over Internal Controls over Material Risks (ICoMR), including annual attestation to management
- Produce Internal Audit KPI and performance reporting
- Continuously enhance risk-based audit approaches to drive efficiency and value
- Lead the development and use of data analytics within Internal Audit
- Provide assurance over Group fraud risk and deliver ad-hoc independent project assurance
- Manage and oversee relevant co-sourced assurance providers
- Prepare clear, insightful risk and audit reporting for senior management and the Audit & Risk Committee
- Present audit findings to Executive Committee, Audit & Risk Committee and Board level as required
- Lead, develop and coach the Group Audit Manager, IT Auditor and wider team
- Work closely with External Audit to support statutory audit activity and align assurance over controls
About You
- Significant senior internal audit experience within a large, complex or listed organisation
- Strong understanding of governance, risk management and internal controls
- Proven experience working with Audit Committees and Executive stakeholders
- Comfortable leading audits across central functions, operations and IT
- Experience with assurance mapping, ICoMR and fraud risk frameworks
- A confident leader with the ability to influence, challenge constructively and develop teams
- Professional qualification (ACA / ACCA / CIA or equivalent) preferred
Head of Internal Audit in Leicester employer: Macildowie Recruitment and Retention
Contact Detail:
Macildowie Recruitment and Retention Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Internal Audit in Leicester
✨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 values, recent news, and challenges they face. This will help us tailor your responses and show that you’re genuinely interested in the role of Head of Internal Audit.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and boost your confidence. We can even help you with common questions related to internal audit strategies and risk management.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Plus, it shows your enthusiasm for the position. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance at getting noticed!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Internal Audit in Leicester
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 internal audit, risk management, and governance. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples that demonstrate your impact in previous roles, especially in leading audits and managing teams. This helps us see the value you can bring.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, be clear and concise. Avoid jargon and keep your language straightforward. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website. It’s the best way for us to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, don’t forget to include your home postcode on your CV!
How to prepare for a job interview at Macildowie Recruitment and Retention
✨Know Your Audit Strategy
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the Group's internal audit strategy and how it aligns with their overall business objectives. Be prepared to discuss how your experience can enhance their current framework and what innovative ideas you could bring to the table.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Internal Audit, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership capabilities. Think of examples from your past where you've successfully led teams or influenced stakeholders. Be ready to share how you can develop and coach the audit team to achieve their goals.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions around governance, risk management, and internal controls. Brush up on your knowledge of assurance mapping and ICoMR frameworks. Being able to articulate your understanding of these concepts will show that you're well-prepared and knowledgeable.
✨Data Analytics is Key
Since the role involves driving the use of data analytics within Internal Audit, be prepared to discuss your experience with data-driven decision-making. Share specific examples of how you've used data analytics to enhance audit quality and efficiency in previous roles.
