The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR; www.nihr.ac.uk) is funded by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) to improve the health and wealth of the nation through research and is the largest funder of health and social care research in the UK. 

The role of the newly created NIHR Assurance Unit is to deliver intelligent and proportionate assurance to the NIHR Board and ultimately the DHSC by establishing and managing a comprehensive, integrated risk and assurance framework across NIHR. It seeks to do this in an efficient and effective manner; minimising the bureaucratic burden to research organisation, whilst maximising the quality of information, and level of assurance provided.

Following HMT’s ‘Managing Public Money’ guidance, and in line with the recommendations of the 2022 Tickell review, the NIHR Assurance Unit will work with other major UK research funders to develop consistent and coordinated approaches to gain assurance of research organisations. 

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Assurance Manager to join our Assurance Unit in London, UK. This is a unique opportunity to be part of a dynamic organization that is committed to delivering exceptional results. As an Assurance Manager, you will play a crucial role in helping to contribute to the delivery of NIHR’s annual assurance plan, by conducting thorough assurance reviews of research organizations, ensuring they comply with established standards, policies, and funding requirements.

This role requires significant internal audit experience, ideally within the public sector (specifically, health and social care or Higher Education), though this is not mandatory. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Undertake Annual Funding Reviews of research organizations within our network.
• Oversee the gathering and communicating of assurance information to relevant parties.
• Promote high standards and a coordinated approach to assurance activities. 

Qualifications and Experience:
Critical Criteria 

• Minimum of 2 years experience in planning and undertaking assurance reviews/audits, forming evidence-based conclusions and recommendations, and documenting them in written reports.
• A relevant professional qualification (e.g., CIA, ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIIA).
• Experience in risk management, internal controls, financial management, and audit in an operational setting.
• Proven history of working with stakeholders from different departments and organisations.
• Skilled in writing clear, insightful and succinct reports 

Desired Criteria 

• Familiarity with public sector financial management and regulatory frameworks.
• Knowledge of the research funding landscape.

Essential Competencies and Behaviours:

• Comfortable working in a demanding and evolving environment, adaptable to changing needs.
• Inquisitive nature with a strong drive for ongoing growth and development.
• Collaborative and supportive individual, committed to working with others to accomplish shared objectives.
• Diligent, self-motivated, and able to work independently.
• Excellent planning, organisational, and attention to detail skills.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills, both written and oral. 

Salary & Benefits 
£47,300 to £49,900  
Bonus - subject to company performance
25 days annual leave, plus public holidays (UK)
Enhanced contributory pension scheme
Life Insurance
Benenden Healthcare
Season Ticket Loan
Laptop, IT equipment and remote IT support

NB: This is a 6 month Fixed Term Contract position.(Possibility of being extended). 

NB: This is an office based, hybrid role, with an expectation for all employees to attend our offices in Twickenham worked as 1 day per week, and may increase, subject to team requirements. 

Application
If you are excited about the prospect of joining our team and believe you possess the relevant skills and background, we invite you to apply. Please submit your CV along with a 'Statement of Suitability' that showcases your key skills and experiences in relation to the 'Required Criteria' outlined in the job description. Additionally, share your enthusiasm for working with
the LGC Group. 

NB: Closing date for applications is 5pm on the 9th December 2024. Interviews for this position are to be held from the 12th December. We are interested in applicants who can start work at short notice. 

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES 
LGC strongly believes that every job applicant and employee should be valued for their individual talents regardless of age, disability, race, colour, ethnic or national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, religion, or belief. Short listing, interviewing and selection will always be carried out without regard to gender, sexual orientation, marital status, colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, age, or trade union membership.