Your new company

Hays is delighted to be working exclusively with Angus Council to recruit a strategic, influential and forward‑thinking Head of Internal Audit. This is a unique opportunity to join a modern, progressive local authority environment with a strong commitment to good governance, effective decision‑making, and transformational change. Operating within a shared service model between Angus Council and Dundee City Council, you will help strengthen public accountability while also supporting ANGUS alive, the Council’s Culture and Leisure Trust, and collaborating closely with partners across Scotland’s public sector.

Your new role

As Head of Internal Audit, you will lead the delivery of a high‑performing Internal Audit Service that fully aligns with professional Internal Audit Standards and statutory requirements. You will provide independent and objective assurance to Elected Members, Chief Executives, Corporate Management Teams and Audit Committees across both councils, covering governance, risk management, internal control frameworks and major change programmes.

You will provide clear strategic direction, inspire and motivate teams, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. A key part of your role will involve preparing and delivering annual audit plans, leading complex audits and sensitive reviews, ensuring strong performance management, and overseeing effective financial planning and resource use. You will also lead the counter‑fraud and investigation function, championing risk awareness throughout the organisation. Working closely with internal auditors across Integrated Joint Boards, other local authorities, and national audit bodies, you will support collaboration, strengthen professional standards and enhance service impact.

What you'll need to succeed

You will bring significant leadership experience within an Internal Audit function, ideally gained within a public sector or highly regulated environment. You will have an expert understanding of Internal Audit Standards and statutory regulations such as the Local Authority Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2014. You will be confident delivering independent assurance to senior stakeholders, including audit committees and executive leadership, and able to lead challenging programmes of audit work with professionalism and integrity.

Strong financial management capability, exceptional communication skills and the ability to influence at all levels are essential. You will be comfortable preparing and managing budgets, developing service plans, shaping audit strategy, and driving operational and cultural improvements. A collaborative mindset is vital, along with a track record of working effectively with diverse internal and external partners to achieve shared outcomes.

What you'll get in return

You will join an influential function with strategic reach across two major Scottish councils. This role offers the chance to shape and modernise Internal Audit services, directly impact governance and transformation activity, and work closely with senior leadership, elected members, and audit professionals across the sector. You will be part of a collaborative, forward‑looking environment that values innovation, continuous improvement, and professional excellence.

What you need to do now

If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.

If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.