Head of Audit & Risk (UK Based)

• As a key advisor to the Director of Assurance, your expertise will be instrumental in safeguarding the Observatory’s mission, supporting world-class research, and ensuring robust governance. Please note – this is NOT solely a financial audit/risk role, and such applications will not be considered.
• You will enjoy a collaborative environment where your insights are valued, your professional growth is supported, and your work has a direct impact on global scientific advancement. With flexible working opportunities and exposure to high-profile projects, this is an exceptional chance to contribute to one of the world’s leading research infrastructures.

What you'll do:

• Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of Observatory-wide risk management policies and processes, providing expert support for risk identification and analysis at all organisational levels.
• Independently identify emerging risks to the Observatory, evaluate their potential impact, facilitate effective mitigation strategies, and advise senior stakeholders on appropriate courses of action.
• Draft comprehensive Risk Appetite Statements for the organisation, conduct regular reviews, and ensure alignment with evolving business objectives and regulatory requirements.
• Prepare and deliver detailed reports on high-level risks to the Finance Committee and Council, ensuring transparency and informed decision-making throughout the organisation.
• Monitor high-level decision-making processes within SKAO, proactively advising the Director of Assurance on any risks arising from strategic initiatives or operational changes.
• Design proposals for internal audit cycles in partnership with the Director of Assurance and Executive Group, ensuring audits are targeted, effective, and aligned with organisational priorities.
• Procure internal audit services as required, manage contracts with external providers, oversee fieldwork activities, and ensure timely fulfilment of action items arising from audit findings.
• Initiate in-house audits where there is potential for unmanaged risk in any part of the business, collaborating closely with Directors and Heads to address identified issues.
• Lead investigations into failures of process or conduct highlighted by audits or other means, ensuring root causes are addressed and lessons learned are shared across the organisation.
• Undertake special projects related to sustainability, corporate responsibility, staff security, resilience, industry relations, or other areas as directed by the Director of Assurance.

What you bring:

• A recognised qualification in business administration, risk management or engineering project management that underpins your ability to navigate complex organisational structures.
• Substantial experience managing major construction projects (such as civil engineering or environmental initiatives) at a senior level within large-scale organisations.
• Proven track record developing and implementing comprehensive risk management policies—including drafting risk appetite statements—and embedding them into business processes.
• Extensive background designing internal audit cycles from inception through delivery; including hands-on experience managing outsourced audit providers for optimal results.
• Direct involvement in international project management environments where cross-border collaboration is essential for success.
• Experience overseeing research and development activities—ideally within government-led or government-funded projects—demonstrating your understanding of public sector accountability.
• Demonstrable history delivering successful outcomes on construction projects by applying rigorous assurance methodologies.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a diverse international team—valuing inclusivity while building strong relationships across cultural boundaries.
• Desirable: Experience managing advanced technology projects (defence/aerospace/nuclear) valued over $1M; familiarity with regulatory compliance across multiple jurisdictions; exposure to academically led R&D environments.