Audit Manager (ISQM 1)

Alternatively, Grant Thornton

At Grant Thornton we do things differently - looking to the future, driving ambitious growth and pioneering positive change in our industry. Providing audit, tax and advisory services, we empower clients through strategic insight, curiosity, and genuine partnership. And we empower our people with real opportunity, an inclusive culture and work life balance. A true alternative.

With over 5,000 people in the UK, and a presence in 150 global markets, we're on an ambitious journey, from great to exceptional, and we need the best people to help us achieve our potential. And with that comes the opportunity to help redefine what our industry looks like, and what you want from your career.

Job Description:

Are you an experienced auditor looking to move into a role that shapes how quality is embedded across an entire firm, rather than a single engagement? If so, here's what it's like working in Audit Quality at Grant Thornton.

Our Audit Quality team supports the design, implementation and operation of the firm's System of Quality Management (SoQM), in line with ISQM (UK) 1. Working closely with the Audit Director and the wider audit practice, the team embeds a strong quality culture, runs monitoring activity, and keeps the firm's quality documentation current and audit ready.

We're looking for a Manager to take ownership of key parts of the SoQM, working closely with the Audit Director and leading an Assistant Manager. You'll drive monitoring and remediation activity, support regulator facing conversations, and play a genuine role in shaping how audit quality is embedded across the firm.

We're happy to talk flexible working and consider reduced hours and job shares, we'll support you to balance your work and life.
 

• Own the ongoing operation of the firm's System of Quality Management in line with ISQM (UK) 1, working closely with the Audit Director
• Lead the embedding of a culture of audit quality across the practice, designing and delivering communication and training initiatives
• Lead the development and maintenance of quality objectives, risk assessments and responses across the components of the SoQM
• Design and lead monitoring activity, including testing and root cause analysis, directing remediation actions through to resolution
• Take ownership of documentation evidencing the design, implementation and operation of the SoQM
• Act as the technical point of contact for audit teams on quality management processes and ISQM (UK) 1 compliance
• Lead engagement with internal stakeholders and support regulator facing activity where required
• Lead preparation for internal and external quality reviews and inspections, coordinating evidence and responses across teams
• Shape firm policies, methodologies and tools that support audit quality, and lead continuous improvement initiatives
• Review and finalise reports and analysis for senior leadership, summarising monitoring outcomes and remediation progress
• Coach and develop an Assistant Manager, providing on-the-job guidance and supporting their development
   

Joining us as a Manager, the minimum criteria you'll need is a professional qualification (ACA / ACCA or equivalent), with solid post-qualification experience in Audit or Internal Audit and a track record of leading initiatives with a good degree of autonomy. It would be great if you had some of the following skills, but don't worry if you don't tick every box, we'll help you develop along the way.

• Proven ability to work effectively with a range of senior stakeholders and lead cross-functional initiatives
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely
• Organised and analytical approach, with strong attention to detail and a focus on continuous improvement
• Experience managing or coaching junior team members
• Good working knowledge of ISQM (UK) 1 and UK auditing standards
• Good technical knowledge of UK GAAP, IFRS and ethical standards
• Experience engaging directly with regulators or quality review bodies
   

Embracing uniqueness, the culture at Grant Thornton thrives on the contributions of all our people, we never settle for what is easy, we look beyond to deliver the right thing, for everyone. Building an inclusive culture, where we value difference and respect our colleagues, helps our people to perform at the best of their ability and realise their potential.

Our open and accessible culture means you'll interact with leaders who are interested in you and everything you bring to our firm. The things that set you apart, we value them. That's why we give you the freedom to bring your whole self to work and pursue your passions inside and outside of work.
 

Life is more than work. The things you do, and the people you're with outside of work matter, that's why we're happy to look at flexible working options for all our roles, and we'll always do our best to keep your work and life in balance.

The impact you can make here will go far beyond your day job. From secondments, to fundraising for local charities, or investing in entrepreneurs in the developing world, you'll be giving back to society. It's that drive to do the right thing that runs through our every move, grounded in our firm's values – purposefully driven, actively curious and candid but kind.

We're looking for people who want to contribute, spark fresh ideas and go beyond expectations. People who want to be able to proudly do what's right, for the firm, our clients, our people and themselves.
It's how it should be.