Internal Lead Auditor X3

On behalf of Network Rail , we are looking for X3 Internal Audit Leads (Inside IR35) for a 6 and 12 month contract . This is a hybrid working role (three days per week office based - London. Additional travel to other locations may be required for auditing purposes).

Network Rail is at the heart of revitalising Britain’s railway. From Crossrail – Europe’s largest civil engineering project – to investment in world-class stations and major programmes of electrification, we are involved in some of the most ambitious and diverse ventures that this country has ever seen. We at Network Rail are dedicated to becoming one of Britain's best employers and believe this starts with placing the candidate at the heart of everything we do!

Job Purpose:

We are seeking X3 experienced Internal Audit Leads to deliver independent , risk-based assurance across a diverse portfolio of business activities. The successful candidate will be responsible for planning and executing audit engagements, evaluating governance, risk management and control frameworks, and providing evidence-based recommendations that support operational effectiveness and continuous improvement.

This role requires a highly capable audit professional who is comfortable working autonomously, engaging with stakeholders at all levels, and managing multiple assignments within a complex organisational environment.

As an Internal Audit Lead , your main responsibilities will be to:

- Lead and deliver internal audit assignments from planning through to reporting and follow-up.
- Assess the effectiveness of governance, risk management , and internal control frameworks.
- Identify risks, control weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement.
- Prepare clear, concise, and evidence-based audit reports and recommendations.
- Engage with stakeholders across the business to understand processes, risks, and controls .
- Support the delivery of the annual audit plan.
- Monitor, review and close audit actions and recommendations as required.
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the Internal Audit function.

Essential:

- Extensive experience operating at Internal Audit Lead level.
- Strong understanding of internal audit methodologies, governance, risk management , and internal controls .
- Proven ability to independently manage and deliver audit assignments.
- Excellent analytical , investigative, and report-writing skills.
- Strong stakeholder management and communication abilities.
- Ability to influence and challenge constructively while maintaining effective working relationships.
- Experience using audit management systems and data analytics tools would be advantageous.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel and reporting tools.
- The role operates within a corporate audit environment using standard business, audit, and data analysis systems.

Desirable:

Experience in one or more of the following areas:

- Corporate Risk & Finance
- Capital Delivery
- Project & Programme Management
- Safety Auditing
- Operational Auditing

Please be aware that this role can only be worked within the UK and not Overseas.

Please note that Network Rail has a maximum 90-minute commute policy for all staff to the specified location for this role.

Network Rail is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. They welcome applications from everyone.

Disability Confident

As a Disability Confident employer, Network Rail encourage applications from disabled and neurodivergent candidates . Applications from candidates who identify as having a disability and meet the essential criteria for the role will be prioritised for review. Where application volumes are high, additional role-specific and desirable criteria may be applied as part of the shortlisting process which may include holding active security clearance.

Armed Forces Covenant

As a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, Network Rail welcome applications from veterans, service leavers, reservists and military spouses or partners. Applications from eligible candidates who meet the essential criteria for the role will be prioritised for review. Where application volumes are high, additional role-specific and desirable criteria may be applied as part of the shortlisting process which may include holding active security clearance.

In applying for this role, you acknowledge the following "this role falls in scope of the Off Payroll Working in the Public Sector legislation. Any rates of payment quoted will reflect the gross rate per day for the assignment and will be subject to appropriate taxes and statutory costs. As such the payment to the intermediary and your income resulting from this contract will be different".