At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and deliver an organisation-wide assurance programme, conducting audits and engaging stakeholders.
- Company: Join a leading international professional services organisation with a focus on governance.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Supportive environment with clear opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Shape assurance processes and make a real impact in a high-visibility role.
- Qualifications: Experience in audit or governance, strong understanding of ISO standards, and excellent stakeholder engagement skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
We are working exclusively with a leading international professional services organisation to appoint an Assurance Lead. This is a high-impact role within a central governance function, offering the opportunity to shape and deliver audit and assurance activity across a complex, multi-site business.
The Role
Reporting into senior leadership, you will take ownership of coordinating and delivering an organisation‑wide assurance programme across integrated management systems. Acting as an independent voice, you'll provide clear, evidence-based insight into how effectively systems and controls are operating, supporting compliance, certification, and continuous improvement. This is a varied role combining internal audit, stakeholder engagement, and external certification coordination.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the planning and delivery of an integrated audit and assurance programme
- Conduct internal audits (both end‑to‑end and targeted reviews) across business processes and systems
- Evaluate controls, documentation, and operational effectiveness, identifying risks and improvement areas
- Manage and coordinate external audits, including certification, surveillance, and recertification activity
- Act as the key point of contact for external auditors and certification bodies
- Track and report audit findings, corrective actions, and emerging themes
- Provide insight and reporting to senior stakeholders on risks, compliance, and system maturity
- Support the business with audit readiness, evidence requirements, and continuous improvement initiatives
- Maintain clear independence from system ownership while working collaboratively across functions
About You
We're looking for an assurance, audit, or governance professional who can operate with credibility and independence in a complex environment.
- Experience delivering internal audits or assurance reviews within management systems or operational frameworks
- Strong understanding of ISO standards (e.g. 9001, 14001, 45001 or similar)
- Experience supporting or coordinating external certification audits
- Knowledge of corrective action processes and root cause analysis
- Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to challenge and influence constructively
- Excellent organisational and reporting capabilities
- Experience working within a multi‑site or professional services environment is advantageous
What's on Offer
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Flexible/hybrid working arrangements
- Opportunity to work within a global, multidisciplinary organisation
- High visibility role with exposure to senior leadership
- Clear scope to shape assurance processes and drive continuous improvement
- Supportive environment with strong emphasis on professional development
If you believe you have the right skillset for this role, please send your CV to my email or alternatively you can call me directly.
Assurance Lead in Manchester employer: Marks Sattin (UK) Ltd
Join a leading international professional services organisation as an Assurance Lead, where you will play a pivotal role in shaping and delivering audit and assurance activities across a complex, multi-site business. Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive environment that prioritises professional development, all while gaining high visibility with senior leadership and the opportunity to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assurance Lead in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry and let them know you're on the lookout for an Assurance Lead role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of ISO standards and audit processes. Be ready to discuss how you've tackled challenges in previous roles, as this will show your credibility and independence in complex environments.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for job postings to come to you! Actively search for roles on our website and apply directly. This shows initiative and can sometimes get you noticed faster than the competition.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews with a thank-you email. It’s a simple gesture that can leave a lasting impression and reinforce your interest in the role. Plus, it gives you another chance to highlight your key skills!
We think you need these skills to ace Assurance Lead in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Assurance Lead. Highlight your experience with internal audits, stakeholder engagement, and any relevant ISO standards. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; show us what you’ve achieved in previous roles. Use metrics or specific examples to demonstrate how you've improved processes or managed audits effectively. This will help us see the impact you've made!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story. Explain why you're passionate about the Assurance Lead role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. We love seeing personality and enthusiasm shine through!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Marks Sattin (UK) Ltd
✨Know Your Standards
Familiarise yourself with ISO standards relevant to the role, like 9001 or 45001. Being able to discuss these standards confidently will show your understanding of the compliance landscape and how it applies to the organisation.
✨Showcase Your Audit Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you successfully conducted internal audits or managed external certification processes. Highlight your ability to identify risks and suggest improvements, as this will demonstrate your proactive approach.
✨Engage Stakeholders Effectively
Think about how you've engaged with stakeholders in previous roles. Be ready to discuss how you’ve influenced decisions or navigated challenges while maintaining independence. This will illustrate your strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively.
✨Prepare Insightful Questions
Craft thoughtful questions about the organisation's current assurance processes and future goals. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company aligns with your career aspirations.
