Head of Corporate Assurance and Risk

London Borough of Barking and Dagenham; London; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in London is seeking a Head of Corporate Assurance and Risk to lead their internal audit and risk management functions. The position requires strong strategic leadership and expertise in public sector governance, aimed at enhancing accountability and transparency. Applicants must hold a CIA or CCAB qualification and have proven experience in managing complex corporate assurance frameworks. Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills are essential for success in this role.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in corporate assurance and risk management at senior level.
• Ability to lead internal audit programs and deliver independent assurance.
• Strong understanding of political and regulatory environments.

Responsibilities

• Set and deliver the strategic vision for assurance and risk functions.
• Oversee a risk-based internal audit programme.
• Advise elected Members and senior officers on governance and risk.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Communication skills

Risk management expertise

Education

CIA or CCAB qualification

Membership in Chartered IIA

Job description

About this job

As the Head of Corporate Assurance and Risk, you will lead the Council's internal audit, counter fraud, risk management and insurance functions. This is a high-impact leadership role that sits at the heart of our governance framework, providing independent assurance and strategic oversight across the Council. You will:

• Set and deliver the strategic vision for assurance and risk functions, aligning them with Council priorities.
• Deliver an annual, evidence-based opinion on the adequacy and effectiveness of internal control, risk management and governance arrangements.
• Develop and embed a robust risk management framework, fostering a culture of accountability and proactive risk awareness.
• Oversee a risk-based internal audit programme in line with Global Internal Audit Standards.
• Lead the Council's Counter Fraud Strategy, driving prevention, detection and investigation of fraud and corruption.
• Manage the Council's insurance portfolio and claims handling, ensuring cost-effective and comprehensive coverage.
• Act as Whistleblowing Officer, safeguarding ethical standards and confidentiality.
• Serve as Senior Information Risk Owner (SIRO), leading on data protection and information governance risk.
• Advise elected Members and senior officers on governance and risk, contributing to policy development and statutory compliance.

This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of governance and assurance in a dynamic, forward-thinking Council. You'll be part of a leadership team committed to transparency, innovation and delivering outstanding public services.

Special requirements for this post

The postholder must be either CIA or CCAB qualified in accordance with the Global Internal Audit Standards.

About you

To be considered for this role, you must be a fully qualified member of the Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors (Chartered IIA) or a CCAB-recognised accountancy body. You will bring proven strategic leadership in corporate assurance and risk management at a senior level, with a strong record of embedding governance frameworks that champion transparency, accountability and ethical decision-making. You will have deep expertise in public sector assurance, providing objective, evidence-based guidance to senior officers, elected Members and governance bodies. Your experience will include leading internal audit programmes, overseeing complex investigations and delivering independent assurance to Audit Committees. This role demands exceptional communication and reporting skills, with the ability to share complex information into clear, actionable insights that inform strategic decisions. You will demonstrate a strong understanding of political and regulatory environments, including data protection, financial regulations and safeguarding responsibilities. You will be skilled in designing and implementing organisation-wide risk and assurance strategies that enhance resilience and drive continuous improvement. Outstanding stakeholder engagement, inclusive leadership and people management skills are essential, along with the ability to navigate competing priorities and deliver under pressure. A strong grasp of public sector governance, regulatory frameworks and best practice is vital, as is a strategic mindset and the ability to influence confidently at all levels.