Overview
Independence and Ethics are of critical and increasing importance to professional services firms, both in shaping organisational culture and ensuring regulatory compliance. They are a central focus for a wide range of stakeholders, including investors, regulators, government bodies and the media, in the UK and internationally. Matters relating to ethics, independence and conflicts of interest are frequently linked to audit quality and the exercise of professional scepticism. The Ethics Team plays a key role in supporting the firm’s strategy to act in the public interest and uphold the highest professional standards. The team sits within the firm’s Quality & Risk Management function and is led by two Partners, supported by a team ranging from Senior Manager to Apprentice level. Due to the increasing complexity of regulatory requirements, ongoing firm growth, and rising stakeholder expectations, the team’s workload and strategic importance continue to expand. This role offers an opportunity to operate at the heart of these developments, working closely with senior stakeholders across the firm.
The successful candidate will play a key role as Manager in supporting the design, implementation and ongoing operation of the firm’s ethics and independence framework.
Responsibilities
- Interpreting audit independence, ethical, and conflicts of interest requirements, and translating these into application guidance and incorporating them into processes and system updates. Specifically, advising on the permissibility of non-audit services and related independence considerations under applicable Ethical Standards.
- Working closely with project teams, IT, and senior stakeholders to ensure systems are appropriately designed and implemented to meet regulatory obligations.
- Developing clear policies and procedures for use by the business and Shared Services Centres.
- Designing and delivering training.
- Establishing and maintaining quality control and monitoring processes in line with ISQM1 and QC1000 requirements.
- Providing ongoing advice and support to the business on the application of independence requirements, including the use of relevant systems and processes.
- Monitoring and tracking Ethics Team deliverables ensuring deadlines and objectives are met.
Experience And Skills
- Relevant experience in ethics, independence, compliance or a comparable regulatory environment.
- A good understanding of the ICAEW Code of Ethics and the FRC Ethical Standard for auditors.
- Proven ability to interpret complex regulation and apply it in a practical, commercial context.
- A sound understanding of risk management principles and their application in practice.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage confidently with stakeholders at all levels.
- Strong relationship-building skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate effectively across the firm.
- The ability to work both independently and as part of a team to solve complex problems and deliver outcomes.
- Strong organisational and project management capabilities, with experience delivering against multiple priorities.
- An interest in, and aptitude for, leveraging technology and systems to improve business processes and compliance outcomes.
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