Senior Public Sector Audit Complaints and Objections Manager

Grant Thornton UK LLP

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

Grant Thornton is seeking an experienced Senior Manager to join their specialist Public Sector Audit team. This role focuses on overseeing and resolving formal processes arising from local audit work, including complaints, objections under the Local Audit and Accountability Act 2014, whistleblowing allegations, and matters brought to auditors' attention. It is a high-profile, intellectually demanding position requiring sound regulatory judgment, technical audit expertise, and strong stakeholder management skills. The role contributes to internal guidance, supports training, and involves external representation with regulators and audited bodies.

Requirements

• Qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA or equivalent)
• Local government or public sector audit experience
• Knowledge of the LAAA 2014 and the National Audit Code
• Strong written communication and analytical skills
• Confident stakeholder and relationship management
• Ability to manage multiple complex matters simultaneously
• A curiosity about public accountability and a commitment to the public interest are essential

Nice To Haves

• Experience in a regulatory, legal, or complaints environment
• Familiarity with audit quality and oversight frameworks

Responsibilities

• Lead the management and resolution of complaints relating to Grant Thornton's local audit work, ensuring responses are robust, evidence-based and compliant with the relevant complaints framework.
• Engage with complainants, internal audit teams and, where appropriate, the Financial Reporting Council.
• Manage the end-to-end process for local elector objections to audited accounts.
• Assess the legal and technical merits of objections, coordinate with responsible audit engagement teams, and produce well-reasoned written decisions in accordance with the Act and associated guidance.
• Act as a key point of contact for whistleblowing disclosures relevant to audited bodies.
• Triage and investigate allegations in line with Grant Thornton's whistleblowing policy and auditing standards, ensuring appropriate confidentiality, escalation and follow-through.
• Respond to matters raised by electors and others under auditing standards and the National Audit Code for local audit.
• Assess whether matters require further audit action, prepare considered responses, and liaise with engagement teams to ensure appropriate follow-up within statutory timescales.
• Contribute to the development of internal guidance and policies on these processes.
• Support training across the local audit practice.
• Work closely with our technical and quality teams.
• Represent Grant Thornton externally in formal correspondence and, on occasion, in meetings with regulators and audited bodies.

Benefits

• Flexible working options (reduced or condensed hours, job shares)
• Hybrid working approach
• Opportunity to contribute to secondments, fundraising for local charities, or investing in entrepreneurs in the developing world.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior