Assistant Director of Data and Assurance

Assistant Director of Data and Assurance

National College Group (Education)

Full Time/Permanent

Location: Newcastle

Salary: £47-49K

We are seeking an Assistant Director of Data and Assurance for a national college group based in Newcastle. Reporting to the Director of Business Assurance and Risk, the successful candidate will oversee a portfolio of risk and assurance activities aimed at protecting and enhancing the business. This role extends beyond traditional Internal Audit by providing assurance that adds value and supports the implementation of the group's strategy.

The role also involves maintaining high standards of data protection across the organization. It is a varied, hands-on position where the Assistant Director will support risk management, assurance, and data protection initiatives.

The ideal candidate will have experience leading internal audits within complex organizations, preferably within the education sector. Management experience is also desirable.

Responsibilities:

• Support the Director of Business Assurance and Risk in conducting high-quality advisory reviews to assist management in areas that are less established or not suitable for formal audits, ensuring adherence to professional standards.
• Lead planning, scoping, and feedback meetings with senior stakeholders during risk, assurance, and advisory activities.
• Document work thoroughly and in compliance with professional standards.
• Collaborate effectively with assurance partners and oversee the delivery of the internal audit plan outsourced to our audit partner.
• Innovate and modernize the assurance processes, including leveraging IT and data analytical tools.
• Follow up on recommendations proactively.
• Mentor and support junior staff members.
• Build positive relationships with staff, promote the assurance offer, and demonstrate its value to stakeholders.
• Prepare high-quality Audit and Risk Committee papers with minimal rework.
• Investigate and respond to data security incidents, ensuring actions are implemented.
• Supervise the Data Protection Compliance Officer to ensure data requests are handled legally and efficiently.
• Support progress on ICO's Accountability Framework by collaborating with relevant officers and stakeholders.

Experience:

• Strong understanding of risk management, internal control, and audit principles.
• Experience leading internal audits in complex organizations, preferably in education.
• Experience with data auditing.
• Ability to quickly understand policies and procedures and apply auditing principles.
• Excellent analytical, reporting, and organizational skills.
• Strong communication skills to influence and negotiate at all levels.
• Commitment to safeguarding children, young people, and vulnerable adults, with the ability to obtain a clear DBS certificate.