Professional Practice – Assurance Risk Manager – UKI Assurance, London

Professional Practice (PPD) provides the Quality and Risk Management function within the Assurance Service Line. PPD is responsible for: providing our engagement teams with the support and advice to enable them to deliver high quality services to their clients and to manage the risks involved in providing those services; compliance with regulation and guidance; managing the firm’s relationships with our audit regulators and working with other parts of the UK firm and EMEIA and Global (‘EYG’) to seek to influence auditing and related regulatory developments. The role of PPD is therefore vitally important to both our quality and growth agendas. The Opportunity: The Risk Management Team, as part of Professional Practice Directorate (PPD) is responsible for leading the maintenance and enhancement of risk management and quality in the audit practice. This is achieved by keeping the firm up to date on assurance and risk matters, both external regulatory issues and internal developments, by developing and communicating relevant guidance and policies and by performing a consultation role to client teams. In addition the risk team play a vital role in the application of non-service line specific risk management policies and procedures and communication with the wider QRM team (Independence, in-house lawyers and Financial Crime Team) The Risk manager will play a vital role in supporting the practice in achieving its quality and risk management ambitions, against the backdrop of an ever-changing audit market place and regulatory environment. We need a proactive and pragmatic individual who can support the practice as well as take the initiative in identifying opportunities for change and drive them into the practice. Your key responsibilities: Responsible for managing and delivering a range of projects to agreed deadlines – you are expected to take ownership of the project, develop an action plan, delegate completion of tasks to other team members as necessary, provide regular updates to the project sponsor (PPD partner, Directors of Risk Management (DRMs) and other members of the risk team), appropriately respond to issues identified, produce high quality output (which may need to be suitable to go to very senior partners) and ensure that the project is completed by the agreed deadline. For example agreeing the approach to onboarding new audit clients. Taking responsibility for the resolution of technical and ad hoc risk management queries and liaising with both PPD and QRM as required. Taking responsibility for the review of non-standard engagement letters and other signed agreements, liaising, where necessary, with our in house lawyers (UK GCO) to gain an approved alternative wording which protects the firm contractually. Review and approval of PACE assessments, involving the raising of queries to the engagement manager/partner, resolution of those issues and approval of records according to risk management delegation matrix or recommending approval to the PPD risk partner or DRM once the reviews are complete. Coaching the wider assurance practice on risk management and quality matters – in dealing with ad hoc queries and formal consultations, ensure that the individuals understand the challenges raised and the technical background to the issue. In addition collating common themes for inclusion in future newsletters and other communications is expected. Becoming the subject matter expert in agreed technical/regulatory matters – each risk team member is recognised as the expert in particular topics, for example audit resignation letters, and they become the primary contact for the practice and the wider risk team when issues arise. This entails having a detailed understanding of the relevant EY polices, appropriate technical standards, applying this to practical situations and ensuring consistency of treatment across client teams. Responsible for the production of materials for in-house training, including powerpoint slides, case studies and reference materials. Delivering risk management training. Supporting and reporting to the PPD risk partner and DRMs in delivering their key responsibilities Other risk management and quality projects which may arise on an ad hoc basis. Skills and attributes for success: Excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills, including an ability to articulate effectively to individuals and larger groups. The ability to critically assess a fact pattern, honing in on the key issues and proposing a way forward. Recognising the need to escalate judgemental and high risk issues to more senior team members, clearly articulating the issue and your own viewpoint. A good knowledge of current assurance quality and risk management issues and understanding of recent accounting developments. Grasps technical issues quickly and is able to act on them, resolve them or escalate as necessary. Produces high quality deliverables for self and team. Strong organisational and project management skills, including the ability to plan ahead and manage your time – balancing multiple priorities is a core skill. The ability to work effectively in a team environment so that all team members feel that they are a valuable member of the team. Effective negotiating and influencing skills, particularly when dealing with Partners and Associate Partners. The ability to encourage and motivate people, effectively delegating work to meet agreed deadlines. The ability to develop and maintain strong networks. Identifying areas of opportunity – challenging the established ways of working and developing new solutions. To qualify for the role you must have: An accounting qualification coupled with membership of ICAEW, ACCA, ICAS or ICAI (or equivalent). A good knowledge of IFRS and UK Auditing standards (ISA (UK)). Experience in a similar role or recent experience of auditing UK listed companies/other major entities. Good organisational, project management and time management skills with a strong focus on delivering results including an ability to plan ahead and anticipate problems. Demonstrable experience at manager level. Location and flexible working The role is primarily office-based in our More London Place office but you may be expected to travel to other UKI locations. Flexible and reduced hours working arrangements will be considered. Who we are EY is committed to being an inclusive employer and we are happy to consider flexible working arrangements. We strive to achieve the right balance for our people, enabling us to deliver excellent client service whilst allowing you to build your career without sacrificing your personal priorities. While our client-facing professionals can be required to travel regularly, and at times be based at client sites, our flexible working arrangements can help you to achieve a lifestyle balance. For further information, and to apply, please visit our website via the “Apply” button below.