Principal Auditor

Posted 27 October 2025
Salary 25.17
LocationNorthampton NN1 United Kingdom
Job type Full time
Sector Financial / Banking / Accounting
ReferenceRQ1629237

Job description

Summary:

The Senior Auditor is a crucial role responsible for executing assignments within the Internal Audit Plan, encompassing both financial and non-financial controls. This position involves planning and conducting audits to ensure the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls for the Council and its partners. The Senior Auditor will identify risks, assess controls, and provide assurance on a variety of services delivered to local communities. This role is essential in offering clients independent assurance that services comply with statutory requirements, risks are effectively managed, and value for money is achieved in alignment with the Council’s objectives.

Responsibilities:

  • Plan and execute audit assignments in consultation with audit management, adhering to professional standards and internal quality procedures.
  • Prepare draft reports and working papers that clearly document audit evidence for management review.
  • Develop and maintain an understanding of audit and risk management techniques, ensuring awareness of organizational risks and necessary controls.
  • Ensure services meet customer needs in accordance with service standards and Council priorities.
  • Represent Internal Audit as required, both within the Council and with external partners.
  • Foster effective relationships with all parties involved in the delivery of the Audit Plan and individual audits.
  • Address ad hoc queries and provide advice and guidance to service department management as needed.
  • Ensure ongoing quality of Internal Audits, complying with Public Sector Internal Audit Standards and the Internal Audit Manual.

Requirements


  • Education, Qualifications, and Training:
    • Qualified Accounting Technician (AAT) or part professionally qualified (e.g., CIPFA / PIIA / CMIIA / CCAB).
    • Fully qualified (e.g., CIPFA / PIIA / CMIIA / CCAB) is desirable.
  • Experience and Knowledge:
    • Practical knowledge of Internal Audit, risk management, and finance, including non-financial systems.
    • Understanding of risks, controls, and materiality in financial and non-financial systems.
    • Familiarity with principles and standards for Internal Audit, particularly Public Sector Internal Audit Standards.
    • Knowledge of data protection and confidentiality issues.
    • Appreciation of financial accounting practices in Local Government and/or schools.
  • Ability and Skills:
    • Strong time management and prioritisation skills.
    • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Word and Excel.
    • Ability to produce clear, well-presented reports based on reliable evidence.
    • Strong interpersonal skills to develop constructive working relationships and respond to queries.
    • Confidence in working with managers at all levels and challenging inappropriate responses to audit findings.
    • Capability to support, supervise, and train team members.
    • Analytical skills to identify and interpret relevant data and draw appropriate audit conclusions.
  • Equal Opportunities:
    • Demonstrated awareness and understanding of equal opportunities and diverse needs.
  • Additional Factors:
    • Adherence to professional and legal standards, such as Public Sector Internal Audit Standards and CIPFA Codes of Practice.
    • Use of time recording software to document work tasks.