Head of Assurance

Head of Assurance

Full-Time 71425 - 80216 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead assurance and risk management to enhance governance and accountability.
  • Company: Join the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, shaping a brighter future.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on communities and drive positive change in a new organisation.
  • Qualifications: Extensive senior-level experience in assurance, risk, and governance required.
  • Other info: Be part of a dynamic team at an exciting time of development.

The predicted salary is between 71425 - 80216 £ per year.

The York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority was established as a new organisation in early 2024. It is a public sector employer with access to powers and funding to unlock transport and housing improvements, boost skills provision and help the economy transition to net zero for York and North Yorkshire. The Mayor also holds responsibilities in relation to Policing, Fire and Crime.

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced assurance and risk leader to take responsibility for the Combined Authority's organisation-wide assurance, risk, compliance, and performance management frameworks. This pivotal role strengthens governance, transparency, and accountability across all delivery ensuring high-quality decision-making and public value.

As Head of Assurance, you will provide expert leadership in developing and embedding comprehensive assurance processes that support strategic priorities, statutory obligations, and funding requirements. You will oversee programme assurance, risk management, compliance activity, and organisational performance reporting, ensuring a consistent and robust approach across directorates.

The role acts as the organisation's subject matter expert on assurance, advising senior leaders, committees, and the Mayor on performance trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement. This postholder will lead the internal audit relationship, ensure implementation of audit recommendations, and deliver independent assurance on internal controls, programme delivery, and value-for-money.

A key focus is embedding assurance within major investments and funding streams, aligned with HM Treasury's Green Book principles, enabling confidence in delivery and supporting future Gateway Reviews and devolution-related negotiations.

The role requires a specialist, with extensive senior-level experience across assurance, risk, performance management, and governance. You will demonstrate strong analytic capability, excellent communication skills, and the ability to influence senior leaders and politicians. A deep understanding of assurance frameworks, HMT Green Book principles, investment appraisal, and public sector governance is essential.

The role requires exceptional leadership, integrity, and the ability to drive cultural and organisational improvement in a complex, high-profile environment. You will be joining a new and developing organisation at an exciting time.

Head of Assurance employer: North Yorkshire County Council

The York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to transformative projects that enhance transport, housing, and economic growth in the region. With a strong commitment to public value, employees benefit from a supportive work culture that prioritises professional development and collaboration, alongside hybrid working arrangements that promote work-life balance. Joining our team means being part of a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to making a lasting impact on communities and the environment.
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Contact Detail:

North Yorkshire County Council Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Assurance

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, attend events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its values. Understand their goals and how your skills align with their mission. This will help you stand out as a candidate who genuinely cares about making a difference.

✨Tip Number 3

Practice your interview skills with a friend or mentor. Get comfortable answering common questions and discussing your experience. The more you practice, the more confident you'll feel when it’s time to shine!

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the latest opportunities right there, tailored just for you.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Assurance

Assurance Frameworks
Risk Management
Performance Management
Governance
Analytical Skills
Communication Skills
Influencing Skills
Investment Appraisal
Public Sector Governance
Leadership
Integrity
Cultural Improvement
Organisational Improvement
Compliance Activity

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in assurance, risk management, and governance. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Head of Assurance, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!

Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a key player in our organisation, it’s important to demonstrate your leadership capabilities. Use specific examples from your past roles where you’ve influenced senior leaders or driven organisational change. We love seeing how you can make an impact!

Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key! Keep your language straightforward and avoid jargon unless it’s necessary. We appreciate well-structured applications that get straight to the point while still conveying your expertise.

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role there!

How to prepare for a job interview at North Yorkshire County Council

✨Know Your Assurance Frameworks

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of assurance frameworks, especially those aligned with HM Treasury's Green Book principles. Being able to discuss how these frameworks can be applied in real-world scenarios will show that you're not just familiar with the theory but can also implement it effectively.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As a Head of Assurance, you'll need to demonstrate exceptional leadership. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully influenced senior leaders or driven cultural improvements. This will help the interviewers see you as a proactive leader who can make a real impact.

✨Understand the Organisation's Goals

Familiarise yourself with the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority's strategic priorities and recent initiatives. Being able to articulate how your role would support their goals will show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their mission and making positive changes.

✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in risk management and compliance. Think through potential challenges you might face in this role and how you would address them. This preparation will help you respond confidently and demonstrate your analytical capabilities.

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