Head of Audit & Risk (UK based)

Head of Audit & Risk Location: Cheshire, England Salary:GBP80000 - GBP99000 per annum This pivotal role offers you the opportunity to shape the Observatory’s risk management and assurance landscape, working closely with senior leaders across the organisation and representing SKAO on an international stage.

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.

What sets this company apart:

SKAO stands at the forefront of global scientific discovery as an international leader in radio astronomy infrastructure. The organisation is renowned for its commitment to pushing technological boundaries while upholding rigorous standards of governance and integrity. At SKAO you will find an environment that celebrates diversity—bringing together experts from around the world who share a passion for advancing human knowledge. The culture is built on collaboration: ideas are welcomed regardless of origin; teamwork is encouraged across disciplines; professional development is actively supported through training opportunities; flexible working arrangements help balance personal commitments with career ambitions. By joining SKAO you become part of a community dedicated not only to scientific excellence but also social responsibility—where every contribution helps unlock new frontiers in our understanding of the universe.

What's next:

If you are ready to make a meaningful impact at one of science’s most exciting frontiers while growing your career alongside passionate colleagues—this is your moment!

Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates