Head of Audit, Risk and Insurance

WARRINGTON BOROUGH COUNCIL; Warrington; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Warrington is seeking a strategic leader with expertise in audit, risk, and insurance. The role involves leading a multi-disciplinary team and providing guidance on governance, risk management, and compliance. Candidates should have proven public sector leadership experience, a strong understanding of PSIAS, and relevant professional qualifications. This is a critical position aimed at transforming internal services and ensuring effective operational delivery.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in audit, risk and insurance in public sector.
• Strong understanding of PSIAS and Section 151 Officers' responsibilities.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead a multi-disciplinary team in delivering internal audit and risk services.
• Provide strategic direction on governance and risk management.
• Deliver an annual report on governance, risk management, and control.

Skills

Leadership in audit

Risk management

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic thinking

Education

Relevant professional qualifications (e.g. CMIIA, CCAB)

Job description

Overview

Warrington Borough Council is entering a critical transformation phase following a Best Value Inspection and the appointment of Ministerial Envoys. We are looking for a strategic leader with expertise in audit, risk and insurance to drive internal audit, counter fraud, risk management, insurance and consultancy services across the council.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a multi‑disciplinary team delivering internal audit, fraud investigation, risk management, and insurance services.
• Provide strategic direction and operational delivery of Internal Audit, Counter Fraud, Risk Management, Insurance and consultancy services, ensuring they are effective, efficient and compliant with Public Sector Internal Audit Standards (PSIAS).
• Provide strategic advice and assurance to the Section 151 Officers, supporting their statutory responsibilities under the Local Government Act 1972 and the Accounts and Audit Regulations.
• Deliver an annual report with an overall opinion on governance, risk management and internal control.
• Promote and develop governance and risk management initiatives across both Councils.
• Support Audit Committees, Corporate Governance Groups and Risk Management Groups in fulfilling their functions.
• Champion risk management practices, ensuring risks are identified, assessed and managed effectively.
• Oversee the insurance portfolio for Warrington Council, ensuring a proactive, risk‑based approach to emerging threats and minimising the total cost of risk.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in audit, risk and insurance within a public sector or complex organisational setting.
• Strong understanding of PSIAS and statutory responsibilities of Section 151 Officers.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Strategic thinker with a track record of delivering high‑quality assurance and governance services.
• Relevant professional qualifications (e.g. CMIIA, CCAB or equivalent) are highly desirable.