At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead IT audits in cloud, cybersecurity, and emerging tech while collaborating with senior management.
- Company: Join Pearson, a global leader in lifelong learning and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid work, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team with international exposure and career advancement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in IT audit, cybersecurity, and strong stakeholder engagement skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 72000 £ per year.
This is a senior IT audit role leading audits across cloud, cybersecurity, and emerging tech, working with leadership to identify risks and strengthen controls across the business. This role aligns to industry-level titles such as IT Audit Manager or Technology Audit Manager.
About Pearson: Learning is the most powerful force for change in the world. More than 20,000 Pearson employees deliver our products and services in nearly 200 countries, all working towards a common purpose to help people realise the life they imagine through learning.
We are looking for a highly motivated and experienced Technology Audit Manager / IT Audit Manager to join our dynamic, innovative, and collaborative Internal Audit team (14 people across the UK and US). The team provides forward-looking assurance, insight, and advice to support Pearson in achieving its strategic objectives.
In this role, you will:
- Lead the planning, execution, and reporting of IT and cybersecurity audits
- Work across a diverse and fast-changing technology and digital environment
- Engage directly with Senior Management and key stakeholders
- Support audit planning, audit committee reporting, and continuous improvement initiatives
You will report into the Internal Audit Leadership team and play a key role in strengthening stakeholder relationships across the business.
This opportunity is ideal for someone who enjoys:
- Working in an international environment
- Exposure to a wide range of technology risks and audit topics
- Building relationships with senior stakeholders
- Being part of a supportive and collaborative team
Location & Working Pattern: Based in Belfast (Clockwise River House) Hybrid working minimum 1 day per week in the office (required) Up to 10% international travel Collaboration across UK and US time zones (flexibility occasionally required)
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead delivery of complex technology, application, infrastructure, and security audits
- Deliver project/programme audits and integrated audits
- Cover a wide range of topics including: Cloud, AI, IT governance, Cybersecurity
- Take full ownership of audit delivery:
- Define risk-based audit scope
- Design audit approach and work programmes
- Plan and project manage delivery
- Conduct fieldwork and testing
- Validate findings with business and IT stakeholders
- Manage reporting through to file closure
- Integrate AI tools and agents as standard to support audit delivery
- Discuss findings with management and agree risk mitigation actions
- Produce clear, concise, commercially relevant reports
- Provide actionable recommendations to improve internal controls, address weaknesses, and drive process efficiency
- Build and maintain strong working relationships across Internal Audit, Technology teams, and wider business stakeholders
- Track and follow up on audit actions and remediation progress
- Liaise closely with action owners and business leadership
- Support annual audit planning, audit committee reporting, and internal improvement initiatives
- Stay current with emerging audit techniques and practices
- Champion new approaches and continuous improvement
Team Contribution:
- Support and coach team members
- Contribute to a collaborative and high-performing environment
- Support investigations and ad-hoc projects as required
Qualifications:
- Degree (or equivalent) in Information Security, Computer Science, or related field
- Professional certification such as CISA, QICA, CISSP, CRISC, SSCP
Experience Required:
- 5+ years experience in cybersecurity and IT audit
- Strong experience across IT processes and controls, applications, infrastructure, and IT security, cloud services, and emerging technologies
- Hands-on experience with auditing web applications/services, networks, operating systems, databases, cloud environments, AI technologies
- Knowledge of cybersecurity and audit frameworks: NIST CSF, ISO, PCI DSS, COBIT, ITIL
- Experience with data and analytics tools: Tableau, Power BI, Alteryx
- Exposure to major ERP systems (Oracle preferred)
Key Skills & Capabilities:
- Strong understanding of IT risk management and security controls
- Ability to interpret complex technical issues and develop practical, business-focused solutions
- Strong organisational and project management skills
- Communication and stakeholder engagement skills
- Ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences
- Collaborative and team-oriented approach
- Commercial awareness and digital mindset
- Flexible, innovative, and proactive mindset
- Comfortable working independently in less structured environments
Why Join?
- Global organisation with meaningful impact
- Exposure to cutting-edge technology environments (AI, Cloud, Cybersecurity)
- Opportunity to work closely with senior stakeholders
- Collaborative, supportive, and international team
- Strong focus on innovation and continuous improvement
At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to help people realize the life they imagine through learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. We are the world's lifelong learning company.
Lead Specialist, Internal Audit in Lisburn employer: Pearson Education Limited
At Pearson VUE, we pride ourselves on being a leading employer that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture. As a Test Centre Administrator in Armagh Town, you'll enjoy flexible working hours, competitive pay, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on candidates' lives while working alongside passionate colleagues. We are committed to your professional growth and offer a supportive environment where you can thrive in your role.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Specialist, Internal Audit in Lisburn
✨Join Compliance Communities
Get involved in compliance and risk communities — both online and offline. Look for forums, LinkedIn groups, or even local meetups where compliance pros hang out. You never know who might drop a job opportunity your way!
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye out for compliance and risk management conferences and workshops in your area. These events are a goldmine for networking, and they often have job boards or recruiters on-site looking for new talent. Plus, it’s a chance to learn what's trending in the field.
✨Leverage Your University Career Services
If you’ve recently graduated or are still studying, head over to your university's career services. Many companies, including those in compliance, actively recruit fresh talent through these services, so make sure you tap into that resource.
✨Showcase Your Knowledge Online
Start writing articles or blog posts about compliance topics that interest you. Share them on platforms like LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and passion. This not only builds your presence in the field but can also catch the attention of companies like Pearson Education Limited looking for candidates who are engaged and informed.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Specialist, Internal Audit in Lisburn
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Understanding of Compliance:In the compliance-risk field, it's super important to showcase your understanding of regulations and risk management frameworks. Highlight any relevant coursework, certifications (like ICA or AML), or even projects that demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to this area. We want to see how you can navigate this complex landscape!
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, try to quantify your achievements. For example, if you've previously worked on a project that improved compliance metrics or reduced risk exposure, give us the numbers! This data-driven approach really stands out to hiring managers in compliance-risk roles.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Relevant Skills:Make sure your CV highlights skills that are particularly relevant to compliance, like attention to detail, analytical thinking, and report writing. Ensure these are easy to spot – consider using bullet points to break down your responsibilities and achievements for maximum impact!
Craft a Motivating Cover Letter:In your cover letter, let us know why you’re excited about the compliance-risk role at Pearson Education Limited. Share what motivates you about compliance, and how you believe you can contribute to our mission. This is your chance to showcase not only your skills but also your passion for this important field!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pearson Education Limited
✨Master the Regulations
Brush up on key compliance regulations relevant to the industry you're applying to. Familiarising yourself with specific laws and frameworks used in your field will give you an edge during technical questions. Show that you’re not just aware of them but can also apply them—think real-life scenarios!
✨Show Your Analytical Skills
Compliance roles really focus on analytical skills, so be prepared for case studies or situational questions during the interview. We've got to demonstrate how we approach risk assessments or compliance audits, possibly drawing on examples from past experiences or university projects. Bring some thoughtful case scenarios to discuss!
✨Know Your Tools
Get comfortable with commonly used compliance software and tools. Familiarity with platforms like RSA or MetricStream can really impress during your interview, as it shows you're ready to hit the ground running. If you’ve had any experience with them, make sure to highlight that!
✨Align with Company Culture
Since it's a full-time position, show your long-term commitment and interest in the company’s mission and values. Dive into how your ethics and professional philosophy align with Pearson Education Limited’s stance on compliance. A shared vision can really resonate with interviewers looking for fit as much as skill!
