Requirements of the role

Do you have internal audit experience?

Be part of a team who carry out audits of public and private companies, public authorities and government departments, looking at whether they have effective controls in place alongside fit for purpose policies and procedures to support their data protection obligations. Join the team who  protect the information rights of the public.

As the Audit Group Manager (Assurance) you will be responsible for the development, as well as the effective and efficient delivery, of these services. This includes the delivery of a professional and proactive service and leading, developing and motivating teams. You will take ownership of the strategic development of an annual programme of assurance work and ensure the continuous improvement of our services.

You will be responsible for overseeing high-priority and complex Assurance activities including audits conducted under an Assessment Notice. Where necessary, Group Managers may be responsible for managing such engagements from inception to completion.

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is the independent regulator of information rights. In a data-driven world, we provide advice, guidance, and support to organisations enabling compliance with their obligations, as well as protecting individuals and their personal data.

As an employer, we are passionate about making a positive difference to the lives and careers of our people, and we empower you to be curious, impactful, collaborative and respectful.

Job description

Assurance activities focus on helping organisations implement appropriate and effective controls in relation to their information rights obligations. Our approach utilises powers of audit and assessment, voluntary engagement and promotion of good information rights practice. The department activity and focus is shaped by the strategic direction of the ICO, its corporate plans and emerging areas of information rights risk.

As well as audit work, the department works with other ICO departments and external stakeholders to promote good information practices. We are constantly evolving our approach and looking for new and innovative ways to help organisations achieve compliance.

Key responsibilities:

• Ownership of the development of a comprehensive strategy for the  Assurance department, and leading the implementation of this strategy.

• The development of the annual programme of work across both public and private sector organisations in line with the department’s strategy.

• The management and development of Team Managers and staff within the department including the monitoring and review of individual performance and supporting individual development. This includes ensuring that team members are clear about expected standards of performance, motivated and professionally developed.

• Oversee audit teams in high-priority, technically complex Assurance work, including audits and follow-up work, particularly in relation to the GDPR and DPA 2018.

• Ensuring the effective allocation of resources to deliver the department’s services and activities.

• Taking ownership of deliverables produced by the department for internal and external stakeholders, in particular ensuring the quality of written output.

• The development, monitoring and review of policies, processes, and procedures, including continued development of a risk-based approach, ensuring activities are delivered consistently and within agreed timescales.

• Assist the Head of Assurance in monitoring the effectiveness of the team and using this information to continually improve standards and effectiveness.

• Liaise clearly and confidently with all internal and external stakeholders to plan, agree, schedule, and deliver Assurance activities and act as a key point of contact for these activities where required.

• The promotion of ICO assurance activity through representation at both internal and external conferences and meetings with controllers and their trade groups and associations.

• Manage and lead individual project work to ensure it meets strategic objectives.

• Manage and lead department projects and initiatives as required, ensuring they meet strategic objectives and implementation is achieved on time and in budget.

• Deputise for the Head of Assurance as necessary.

• Comply with ICO Policies and Procedures

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