Internal Audit Executive

Internal Audit Executive

Permanent Role

Job Details

Client: Barnet Council

Service Area: Internal Audit / Assurance & Public Protection

Hours: Full-time

Contract: Permanent

Target Start Date: 01 October 2026

Working Pattern: Hybrid - minimum 2-3 days per week in the office

Location

2 Bristol Avenue

Colindale

London

NW9 4EW

Salary

£48,003 - £53,172 per annum

Grade: J

Job Overview

Barnet Council is seeking an experienced Internal Audit Executive to join its Internal Audit team within the Assurance & Public Protection Directorate.

The role will provide audit advice, assurance and risk-based internal audit support across a wide range of council services. The successful candidate will plan, scope and complete audit assignments from start to finish, undertake compliance and systems-based reviews, complete follow-up audits, identify weaknesses and provide clear, practical recommendations.

This role requires strong public sector internal audit experience, a good understanding of local government finance, risk-based auditing, contract and procurement assurance, and the ability to work independently with services across a large local authority.

Important - Please Read Carefully

This role requires at least 5 years' experience working in an internal audit team within a public sector organisation.

You must have experience undertaking internal audits from scoping through to final report, and hold a relevant qualification such as CIPFA, AAT, IIA or another CCAB-recognised qualification, along with a degree or equivalent.

Candidates without public sector internal audit experience are unlikely to be considered.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan individual audit assignments in line with the Annual Audit Plan
• Undertake audit assignments independently, including compliance and systems-based reviews
• Conduct follow-up reviews in line with internal audit procedures
• Apply a risk-based audit approach in line with professional standards
• Complete audit assignments within agreed budgets and timescales
• Identify system weaknesses, financial issues and areas requiring further audit attention
• Provide technical and professional audit advice to council services
• Support service improvement and development within Internal Audit
• Support junior auditors and assist with their development
• Represent the Assurance & Public Protection Directorate at internal working groups
• Contribute to practical solutions for financial, legislative and operational issues
• Participate in developing and delivering training for stakeholders
• Undertake audit-related projects and investigations when required
• Maintain links with the Corporate Anti-Fraud Team
• Support value for money reviews where appropriate

Essential Experience & Skills

• At least 5 years' experience in an internal audit team within a public sector organisation
• Experience completing audits from scoping to final report
• Sound knowledge of auditing principles and standards
• Good knowledge of risk-based internal auditing and how to apply it in practice
• Knowledge of the local government finance framework, including S151 responsibilities
• Understanding of statutory requirements and codes of practice
• Strong understanding of services delivered by a large UK local authority
• Audit knowledge of contract and procurement issues affecting councils
• Ability to undertake audits independently
• Strong report writing and communication skills
• Ability to identify weaknesses and provide practical recommendations
• Good stakeholder management skills
• Ability to manage own workload and meet audit deadlines
• Understanding of value for money considerations
• Ability to support junior auditors where required

Essential Qualifications

• Relevant qualification such as CIPFA, AAT, IIA or another CCAB-recognised qualification
• Degree or equivalent

Additional Information

The role may involve an initial telephone screening before candidates are invited to an in-person interview.

A DBS check will be required if successful.

Disclaimer

On applying for this vacancy, you agree that your personal details will be passed onto our client for their consideration of your suitability for the role.

I acknowledge that it is my responsibility to notify Fix Space Recruitment Limited of any hirer who I do not want my details to be passed onto.