At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead IT and cybersecurity audits, ensuring robust risk management and stakeholder engagement.
- Company: Join Pearson, a global leader in lifelong learning with a mission to empower through education.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team focused on innovation and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic tech environment while collaborating with senior leaders.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in cybersecurity and IT audit, with strong analytical and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
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 do this by providing high quality digital content and learning experiences, as well as assessments and qualifications that enable people to build skills and grow in a rapidly evolving world. We are the world's lifelong learning company.
Learn About the Role & Team
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’ll 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
Audit Delivery & Leadership
- 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
Stakeholder Management & Reporting
- Discuss findings with management and agree risk mitigation actions
- Produce clear, concise, commercially relevant reports
- Provide actionable recommendations to:
- Improve internal controls
- Address weaknesses
- Drive process efficiency
Build and maintain strong working relationships across:
- Internal Audit
- Technology teams
- Wider business stakeholders
Governance, Follow-Up & Continuous Improvement
- 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
- 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
- Cybersecurity and audit frameworks: NIST CSF, ISO, PCI DSS, COBIT, ITIL
- AI tools in audit delivery
- Data and analytics tools: Tableau, Power BI, Alteryx
- Supporting complex data extraction and analysis
- Exposure to major ERP systems (Oracle preferred)
Key Skills & Capabilities
- Strong understanding of:
- IT risk management
- Security controls
- Relationship between technology and business risk
- Knowledge of:
- Cybersecurity controls
- Network architecture
- Secure coding
- Website/platform development
- Virtual computing
- Ability to:
- Interpret complex technical issues
- 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
Who we are:
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. For us, learning isn't just what we do. It's who we are.
Pearson is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a member of E-Verify. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit and business need. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status or any other group protected by law. We actively seek qualified candidates who are protected veterans and individuals with disabilities as defined under VEVRAA and Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act.
Lead Specialist, Internal Audit, Controls, Compliance, and Risk in Newtownabbey employer: Pearson Education Limited
Pearson is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, providing employees with the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge technology in a global environment. With a strong focus on professional growth and continuous improvement, team members are encouraged to build meaningful relationships with senior stakeholders while contributing to impactful projects. Located in Belfast, the hybrid working model allows for flexibility, ensuring a balanced work-life experience in a supportive atmosphere.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Specialist, Internal Audit, Controls, Compliance, and Risk in Newtownabbey
✨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, Controls, Compliance, and Risk in Newtownabbey
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!
