At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the implementation of internal controls and assurance across SSE.
- Company: Join SSE, a leader in energy transition and infrastructure development.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, and wellness perks.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on governance and risk management in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Degree or professional qualification in finance or assurance with relevant experience.
The predicted salary is between 50100 - 75100 £ per year.
Base Location: You'll be expected to spend 50% of your working week in one of the following SSE locations - Glasgow, Perth, Aberdeen, or Inverness.
Salary: £50,100 - £75,100 + performance‑related bonus + a range of benefits to support your finances, wellbeing and family.
Working Pattern: Permanent | Full Time | Flexible First options available
The role of the Controls & Assurance Manager is focused on delivering, embedding and supporting the operation of a robust internal control environment across SSE. This role plays a key part in strengthening how the Group designs, tests and improves its internal controls and related assurance activities. You will lead practical, risk-based controls testing and assurance work across material areas, working closely with stakeholders to deliver insight, support strong decision making and help ensure SSE continues to meet governance, regulatory and stakeholder expectations.
This opportunity offers broad exposure across the Group, working with Finance, Risk, Sustainability and other senior stakeholders to strengthen how controls and related assurance operate in practice and continue to evolve.
You will:
- Lead the implementation and embedding of the internal control framework and standards, working with stakeholders to design and operate proportionate, effective controls across material and related component processes.
- Own and deliver the controls testing plan end-to-end, including prioritisation, execution, and forming evidence-based conclusions, while managing control issues through the remediation lifecycle and ensuring sustainable improvements are embedded.
- Monitor and report on control effectiveness across the organisation, providing clear insight on performance, risks and remediation to management and governance forums, supporting the Board's annual assessment of the system of internal control.
- Deliver targeted non-financial and broader assurance activity and support integrated assurance across the four lines of defence, contributing to a coordinated, risk-based approach to assurance across the Group.
- Act as a trusted partner and constructive challenger, building strong relationships across the business to embed a controls and assurance mindset, influence improvements, and maintain delivery pace and value.
You have:
- A degree and/or relevant professional qualification (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CA, CIPFA or equivalent), with expertise in controls, assurance or internal audit, including delivery of controls testing or assurance programmes.
- A structured and delivery-focused approach, including the ability to take ownership, prioritise effectively, and deliver high-quality outcomes in an evolving environment with a solid understanding of developing governance and regulatory expectations.
- Strong technical knowledge of control design and operating effectiveness, with proven experience leading and executing controls testing, assessing evidence, identifying control weaknesses and root causes, and managing issues and remediation through to resolution, supported by clear and robust reporting.
- Confidence working with stakeholders at all levels, able to challenge constructively, influence ways of working, and apply a pragmatic approach that maintains high-quality standards while focusing effort on material risks and priorities.
- A collaborative and forward-thinking mindset, able to act as a trusted advisor and open to different perspectives and ideas that evolve and strengthen controls and assurance approaches and outcomes.
About SSE: SSE's purpose is to provide energy needed today while building a better world of energy for tomorrow. We do this by developing, building, operating and investing in electricity infrastructure and businesses needed in the energy transition. Our Transforming for Growth investment plan sees us investing £33bn in critical electricity infrastructure across the five years to 2030.
Our Governance, Risk & Assurance teams support SSE in meeting all risk management responsibilities, including UK Corporate Governance Code obligations. They undertake assurance reviews to help identify and mitigate against any risks that could impact our performance, integrity, solvency or liquidity.
Flexible benefits to fit your life include discounts on private healthcare and gym memberships, wellbeing benefits like a free online GP and 24/7 counselling service, interest-free loans on tech and transport season tickets, or a new bike with our Cycle to Work scheme, as well as generous family entitlements such as maternity and adoption pay, and paternity leave.
Work with an equal opportunity employer: SSE will make any reasonable adjustments you need to ensure that your application and experience with us is positive. We're dedicated to fostering an open and inclusive workplace where people from all backgrounds can thrive. We create equal opportunities for everyone to succeed and especially welcome applications from those who may not be well represented in our workforce or industry.
Ready to apply? Start your online application using the Apply Now box on this page. We only accept applications made online. If you're offered a role with SSE, you'll need to complete a criminality check and a credit check before you start work.
Controls & Assurance Manager employer: SSE PLC
SSE is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth, offering a competitive salary alongside a performance-related bonus and a comprehensive benefits package. With a flexible working pattern and a commitment to fostering an inclusive culture, SSE empowers its employees to thrive while contributing to the vital energy transition. The role of Controls & Assurance Manager provides a unique opportunity to collaborate with senior stakeholders across various departments, ensuring a robust internal control environment that supports both personal and organisational success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Controls & Assurance Manager
✨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 SSE PLC looking for candidates who are engaged and informed.
We think you need these skills to ace Controls & Assurance Manager
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 SSE PLC. 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 SSE PLC
✨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 SSE PLC’s stance on compliance. A shared vision can really resonate with interviewers looking for fit as much as skill!
