Senior Associate - UK Independence Team - Risk Management

UK Independence Team – Risk Management – Independence Senior Associate

Within the professional services environment, appropriate risk management is fundamental to the successful delivery of our client services and promotion and protection of our brand. Within EY, the UK Risk Management group (which covers audit independence/ethics, conflicts, anti-bribery, anti-money laundering, data protection, enterprise and business risk, and other risk and regulatory areas), is responsible for the promotion, protection and support of risk management within the business. The group aims to uphold our business standards, maintain and enhance the value of the brand, and ensure that the firm complies with the external/internal rules and regulations imposed on the firm in relation to the conduct of its business. 

The UK Independence Team forms part of the UK Risk Management Group which reports directly to senior leadership.

The opportunity

A vacancy exists for an Independence Senior Associate within the business relationship and hospitality, gifts & favours (HGF) area of the UK Independence team.

Among other things, the business relationship sub function is responsible for reviewing proposed business relationships EY seeks to enter with 3rd parties e.g. procurement relationships, subcontracts, sponsorships, alliances etc. in order to consider permissibility under  applicable audit independence regulations, including those of the UK Financial Reporting Council (FRC) through their Ethical Standard 2024.

The team also oversee the firm’s compliance with the very strict HGF requirements imposed by the FRC and other independence regulators with respect to  EY audit clients.

This is a permanent, full-time position based in London or Leeds.

Your key responsibilities

The role will be varied in nature, and whilst the primary focus will be HGF related, it will include the following responsibilities:

• Analysis of proposed business relationships the UK firm intends to enter.
• Provision of professional Independence advice to the business
• Supporting with the ongoing, periodic review and analysis of Independence detect controls in relation to both HGF and business relationships
• Supporting with the ongoing, detailed monthly review/reconciliations of HGF reports, including handling follow up protocols in order to resolve open matters
• Supporting Managers, Senior Managers and Directors with the review of HGF related queries and consultations
• Overseeing the maintenance of the HGF team sharepoint site, including relevant guidance and quick reference guides
• Creation of MI data reports for the Head of the Business Relationship sub function and other internal stakeholders
• Oversight of and collaboration with offshore support centre colleagues to ensure  outsourced HGF Independence activities are completed timely and accurately
• Supporting Managers, Senior Managers and Directors with ad hoc Independence tasks, as necessary.

Experience

Candidates must possess the following skills and experience:

• Several years’ experience working in a Risk Management function
• Strong analytical and interpretation skills with excellent attention to detail
• Extremely organised and able to assist with and/or manage projects
• Adaptability and flexibility with good team working skills and the ability to multi-task
• Ability to work to pre-determined deadlines and meet objectives under pressure
• Ability to think strategically and handle complex concepts    
• Proactive approach and capability of working using own initiative
• Strong communication ability with colleagues at all levels

Whilst Independence experience is not essential for this role, it would be extremely beneficial. All applicants are expected to have prior risk management experience at either Associate or Senior Associate rank (or equivalent).

What we offer

We offer a competitive remuneration package where you’ll be rewarded for your individual and team performance. Our comprehensive Total Rewards package includes support for flexible working and career development, and with FlexEY you can select benefits that suit your needs, covering holidays, health and well-being, insurance, savings and a wide range of discounts, offers and promotions. Plus, we offer:

• Continuous learning: You’ll develop the mindset and skills to navigate whatever comes next.
• Success as defined by you: We’ll provide the tools and flexibility, so you can make a meaningful impact, your way.
• Transformative leadership: We’ll give you the insights, coaching and confidence to be the leader the world needs.
• Diverse and inclusive culture: You’ll be embraced for who you are and empowered to use your voice to help others find theirs.

If you can demonstrate that you meet the criteria above, please contact us as soon as possible.

The exceptional EY experience. It’s yours to build.

Apply now.