At a Glance
- Tasks: Analyse government programmes and produce impactful reports to drive public service improvements.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at the National Audit Office focused on accountability.
- Benefits: Enjoy 35 days annual leave, flexible working, and a competitive salary.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for career growth and learning.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public services while developing your analytical skills.
- Qualifications: 2:1 degree in relevant fields or experience in research and analysis.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We welcome applications from candidates who work part-time and are keen to support colleagues to work flexibly including on a job share basis.
Application Process
- Submit a CV. Use the template here or choose another format, but it should be no longer than two pages of A4 using size 10 font and cover the points in the template.
- Complete online verbal and numeracy tests.
- Answer four competency-based questions.
- Email your case study answer based on the following material: Case study briefing here and Case study supporting data here.
Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed and have their case studies marked as part of the final stage. Final decisions will be based on combined scores in the assessment and final stages. We will hold an online session on Tuesday 9th June 12:00-13:00 to provide more details about the role. Contact Analyst.Recruitment@nao.org.uk to attend.
About the Role
Each year we produce around 60 major reports examining government programmes and projects. These reports are multi-method audits focusing on the cost, effectiveness and efficiency of government programmes and projects. Our work must be timely and we typically take between 3 and 8 months to report. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to projects that hold government to account and drive improvements in public services across health, education, justice and international development. It is not a business analyst role; you will be part of a dynamic team focused on delivering high-impact audits that promote accountability and enhance the delivery of public services.
Main Responsibilities
- Gather evidence by applying a variety of methods such as interviews with government officials and other stakeholders, reviewing documents and data sources and directly collecting data through surveys.
- Analyse and interpret evidence and data using qualitative and quantitative methods from many sources on a wide range of public policy topics and sectors.
- Maintain an evidence trail and provide advice to your team about the quality of evidence we use to develop our findings.
- Present findings clearly and succinctly and contribute to planning and drafting value for money reports.
- Provide written and oral briefings to managers and senior staff.
- Gain insight and knowledge of the bodies we audit and develop and maintain good relations with them, for example by engaging with analysts in government and with wider external stakeholders.
- Support wider assurance work and assist teams during engagement with Parliament and Select Committees, particularly the Public Accounts Committee.
- Provide advice and support to other teams by using your subject matter or analytical expertise and engaging with opportunities to share learning across the NAO.
Key Skills
- Gather, analyse and interpret evidence from a range of sources in a timely and high-standard manner.
- Produce clear, well-structured and succinct written work that is easily understood by non-technical readers.
- Draw valid and concise conclusions that are clearly evidence-based.
- Present complex and nuanced findings from your analysis in a way that can be easily understood by various audiences.
- Engage confidently and communicate effectively with colleagues and clients at all levels, including gathering evidence and supporting knowledge sharing across teams.
- Work cooperatively and collaboratively as part of a team to deliver our reports.
Education and Work Experience
A minimum of a 2:1 degree in a relevant discipline such as social science research methods, management science/operations research, economics, statistics, mathematics, data analytics, or a research-based postgraduate qualification; or relevant experience in research, analysis, or performance audit. This may include but is not limited to experience in management or other consultancy roles, internal audit, or working as a researcher.
Eligibility
UK Nationals. Nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK. Nationals from the EU, EEA or Switzerland with (or eligible for) status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS).
Benefits
- A competitive salary and excellent Civil Service pension scheme.
- 35 days annual leave (inclusive of public holidays), rising to 40 days after five years.
- Flexible working arrangements and modern offices in London and Newcastle.
- A strong focus on learning, development and wellbeing.
- Work alongside experienced and supportive colleagues in a collaborative team environment.
- Gain exposure to senior stakeholders and real-world policy challenges.
- Build skills in research, analysis and communication that will shape your career.
Value for Money Analyst in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: National Audit Office
The National Audit Office (NAO) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for Value for Money Analysts to contribute to impactful audits that enhance public services across various sectors. With a strong emphasis on flexible working arrangements, a competitive salary, and a generous leave policy, employees benefit from a supportive and collaborative work culture that prioritises professional development and wellbeing. Located in modern offices in London and Newcastle, the NAO provides a dynamic environment where analysts can engage with senior stakeholders and tackle real-world policy challenges, fostering both personal and career growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Value for Money Analyst in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role inside out! Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities and skills mentioned in the job description. This will help you tailor your responses during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Before your interview, run through some common competency-based questions and prepare your answers. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and highlight your relevant experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to engage with the team! If you can, attend the online session on June 9th to learn more about the role and meet potential colleagues. This is a great opportunity to ask questions and make a positive impression before the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Show off your analytical skills! Be ready to discuss how you've gathered and interpreted evidence in past roles. Think of examples where you've used both qualitative and quantitative methods, as this will demonstrate your fit for the Value for Money Analyst position.
We think you need these skills to ace Value for Money Analyst in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Use the Right Template:Make sure to use the CV template provided in the job description. It’s designed to help you cover all the key points we’re looking for, and sticking to two pages of A4 with size 10 font keeps it neat and tidy.
Nail Those Competency Questions:When answering the four competency-based questions, think about your past experiences and how they relate to the role. We want to see clear examples that showcase your skills and how you’ve tackled challenges in the past.
Ace the Case Study:For the case study, take your time to thoroughly review the briefing and supporting data. Your answer should be well-structured and demonstrate your analytical skills. Remember, this is a chance to show us how you think!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups, so don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Audit Office
✨Master the Case Study
Make sure to thoroughly review the case study materials provided. Understand the key data points and be ready to discuss how you would analyse them. Practising your presentation of findings will help you articulate your thoughts clearly during the interview.
✨Show Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your ability to gather, analyse, and interpret evidence. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully used qualitative and quantitative methods. Be ready to explain your thought process and how you arrived at your conclusions.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since the role involves presenting complex findings, practice explaining your ideas in a straightforward manner. Use simple language and avoid jargon when possible. This will show that you can communicate effectively with non-technical audiences, which is crucial for this position.
✨Engage with the Team Spirit
Highlight your teamwork skills during the interview. Share examples of how you've collaborated with others to achieve common goals. Emphasise your willingness to support colleagues and engage with stakeholders, as this role requires strong interpersonal skills.
