National Head of Audit

Job Title: National Head of Audit
Location: Remote/ Hybrid
Salary: £130,000
Ref: 61186

A well-established and fast-growing professional services group is seeking a National Head of Audit to lead the development and delivery of its audit function. The organisation, known for supporting ambitious businesses across the UK, is expanding its audit capability as part of a wider strategic growth plan and now requires a senior specialist to oversee audit quality, compliance and methodology across multiple locations.

The role sits at the heart of the firm's succession strategy. It begins with responsibility for day-to-day leadership of the audit function and chairing the internal audit committee, with a planned progression into the senior audit compliance position. The post is internally focused, with the firm's Audit Partners as its key stakeholders, and offers a flexible hybrid working arrangement with periodic travel to regional offices and acquisition sites.

The successful candidate will provide overall direction for audit standards, quality and process improvement, ensuring that the firm continues to deliver high-quality audits across a diverse client base. This includes developing audit guidance, overseeing hot and cold file reviews, coordinating external quality reviews, conducting root cause analysis and ensuring continuous improvement across the audit practice. The role also involves maintaining and assessing the firm's System of Quality Management in line with regulatory requirements, acting as the main point of contact for regulatory bodies and managing the outcomes of regulatory visits.

A further key element is leading the audit technology strategy, ensuring tools, systems and methodologies evolve in line with industry expectations. The role also includes involvement in acquisition activity, undertaking audit due diligence, conducting post-completion reviews and supporting the integration of newly acquired teams and offices. Additional contributions include identifying training and CPD needs, leading audit workshops and producing regular technical communications for the wider audit team.

Candidates will need extensive experience at Audit RI, Audit Director or Senior Manager level within a regulated audit environment, with strong technical knowledge across frameworks such as FRS 102 and IFRS. A solid understanding of audit ethics, standards and methodology is essential, along with experience using audit software and an appreciation of emerging audit technologies. Excellent communication skills, the ability to build strong relationships and an open, forward-thinking approach are all important qualities for success in this role.

If you would like to explore this opportunity further, please contact Clare at [email protected] to arrange a confidential conversation.