Assurance Manager

Company Description

The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR; www.nihr.ac.uk) is funded by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) to improve the health and wealth of the nation through research and is the largest funder of health and social care research in the UK. 

The role of the newly created NIHR Assurance Unit (NAU) is to deliver intelligent and proportionate assurance to the NIHR Board and ultimately the DHSC by establishing and managing a comprehensive, integrated risk and assurance framework across NIHR. It seeks to do this in an efficient and effective manner; minimising the bureaucratic burden to research organisation, whilst maximising the quality of information, and level of assurance provided.

Following HMT’s ‘Managing Public Money’ guidance, and in line with the recommendations of the 2022 Tickell review, the NAU will work with other major UK research funders to develop consistent and coordinated approaches to gain assurance of research organisations.

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Assurance Manager to join our world-class team in London, UK. This is a unique opportunity to be part of a dynamic organisation that is committed to delivering exceptional results. As an Assurance Manager, you will play a crucial role in implementing our assurance framework across the organisation, ensuring flawless execution and adherence to regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Contribute to the development and delivery of our annual assurance plan.
• Undertake annual reviews of research organizations within our network.
• Oversee the gathering and communicating of assurance information to relevant parties.
• Support the Head of Assurance in the continuous improvement of our assurance framework.
• Promote high standards and a coordinated approach to assurance activities.

Qualifications

Qualifications and Experience:
Required Criteria 

• Minimum of 2 years experience working in internal audit and/or undertaking assurance reviews, forming evidence-based conclusions and recommendations, and documenting them in written reports
• Proven experience in risk management, internal controls, financial management, and audit in an operational setting
• Proven history of collaborating successfully with individuals from different departments and organisations

Desired Criteria 

• Proven experience in counter fraud, including knowledge of fraud prevention and detection techniques
• Familiarity with public sector financial management and regulatory frameworks
• Knowledge of the research funding landscape

Essential Competencies and Behaviors:

• Comfortable working in a demanding and evolving environment, adaptable to changing needs.
• Inquisitive nature with a strong drive for ongoing growth and development.
• Collaborative and supportive individual, committed to working with others to accomplish shared objectives.
• Diligent, self-motivated, and able to work independently.
• Excellent planning, organizational, and attention to detail skills.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills, both written and oral.

Additional Information

Salary & Benefits 
£47,300 to £49,900
Bonus - subject to company performance
25 days annual leave, plus public holidays (UK)
Enhanced contributory pension scheme
Life Insurance
Benenden Healthcare
Season Ticket Loan
Laptop, IT equipment and remote IT support
NB: This is an office based, hybrid role, with an expectation for all employees to attend our offices in Twickenham worked as 1 day per week, and may increase, subject to team requirements. 
Application
If you are excited about the prospect of joining our team and believe you possess the relevant skills and background, we invite you to apply. Please submit your CV along with a 'Statement of Suitability' that showcases your key skills and experiences in relation to the 'Required Criteria' outlined in the job description. Additionally, share your enthusiasm for working with the LGC Group. 
EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES 
LGC strongly believes that every job applicant and employee should be valued for their individual talents regardless of age, disability, race, color, ethnic or national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, religion, or belief. Short listing, interviewing and selection will always be carried out without regard to gender, sexual orientation, marital status, color, race, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, age, or trade union membership.