Interim Assistant Director of Assurance and Risk Management

Location: Local Council (West Midlands)Contract: 6 Months (Inside IR35)

Hays is proud to be working in partnership with a progressive local council to recruit an Interim Assistant Director of Assurance and Risk Management. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced and dynamic leader to drive transformation and embed a culture of excellence in audit and risk management.

About the Role
Reporting directly to the Executive Director of Finance, you will play a pivotal role in strengthening the Council's assurance framework. You will lead the development of a high-performing team and ensure the Council's audit and risk functions are modern, proactive, and aligned with best practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Strengthen Key Lines of Defence: Lead the implementation of strategies to enhance the Council's assurance environment, ensuring effective risk identification, assessment, and mitigation.
• Deliver the Risk and Assurance Elements of the Improvement Recovery Plan (IRP): Address key challenges raised by External Audit and Commissioner-led interventions.
• Modernise Internal Audit and Risk Functions: Ensure compliance with Internal Audit Standards and deliver a forward-thinking, responsive service.
• Strategic Review and Alignment: Provide challenge and guidance to ensure audit and risk objectives align with Council priorities and evolving best practices.
  

• Proven experience in senior audit, risk, or assurance roles within the public sector.
• Strong leadership and team development skills.
• Demonstrated ability to drive strategic improvements and manage change.
• In-depth knowledge of internal audit standards and risk management frameworks.
  
  If you are ready to make a significant impact and help shape the future of a local authority's assurance and risk culture, please send your updated CV!