Audit & Anti-Fraud Manager

Audit & Anti-Fraud Manager

Local Authority South East London

A large local authority based in South East London is seeking an experienced Audit & Anti-Fraud Manager to lead and manage internal audit and counter-fraud activity across a complex, high-profile public-sector organisation.

This is a senior interim opportunity for an accomplished audit and fraud professional who can provide assurance, leadership, and robust investigation capability while supporting the statutory responsibilities of the Section 151 function.

Assignment Details

• Pay Rate: 44.09 per hour (Umbrella)
  May negotiate higher for exceptional candidates based on experience
• Contract Length: 11 months (ongoing assignment)
• Working Pattern: Hybrid working - 2 days per week in the office
• Office Location: Woolwich area, South East London (SE18)

The Role

The Audit & Anti-Fraud Manager will be responsible for ensuring effective audit coverage across council services, managing a large professional team, and overseeing complex investigations, including housing benefit fraud and other corporate irregularities.

You will play a key role in safeguarding public funds, improving governance, and ensuring compliance with statutory, professional, and regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Audit & Anti-Fraud service, including responsibility for up to 20 staff
• Deliver continuous, risk-based internal audit coverage across corporate systems, contracts, ICT, schools, housing benefits, and externally funded services
• Ensure audits and investigations fully support the Section 151 statutory responsibilities
• Direct, manage, and review complex and sensitive investigations, including fraud, corruption, and irregularities
• Contribute to the development and delivery of the annual Audit & Anti-Fraud Plan
• Prepare high-quality audit reports, assurance statements, and performance reports for senior officers and Members
• Recommend control improvements and fraud prevention measures based on audit and investigation findings
• Ensure compliance with professional standards, including CIPFA Internal Audit Code of Practice and relevant legislation
• Promote fraud awareness, training, and modern investigative techniques across the organisation
• Liaise with senior managers, external agencies, regulators, police, and legal bodies as required
• Deputise for the Head of Audit & Anti-Fraud where necessary

Essential Requirements

Candidates must meet one of the following professional criteria:

• Member of the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)
  OR
• Fully qualified accountant and member of a CCAB-recognised body

Skills & Experience

• Extensive experience leading internal audit and counter-fraud services within local government or the public sector
• Strong knowledge of audit, investigation, governance, and risk management frameworks
• Proven ability to manage large teams and complex workloads
• Experience conducting and overseeing sensitive, high-risk investigations
• Excellent stakeholder management skills, including engagement with senior officers and Members
• Strong report-writing, analytical, and decision-making capability

Apply now for a confidential discussion and further details about this senior interim opportunity.

Linsco is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.