Senior Public Sector Audit Complaints and Objections Manager

Overview

In this role you will lead and coordinate complaints handling, objections, and whistleblowing matters tied to Grant Thornton’s local audit work in the public sector. You will act as a key external ambassador, ensuring robust, evidence-based responses while liaising with regulators and audit teams. You’ll help shape internal guidance and training to strengthen local audit processes. This role combines technical audit oversight with stakeholder management to uphold public accountability and quality.

Pay / Benefits

• flexible working options
• hybrid working
• work-life balance
• opportunities for secondments
• contributions to local charities
• development opportunities

Responsibilities

• Lead complaints handling for local audit work, ensuring robust, evidence-based responses compliant with the framework
• Manage end-to-end objections under Local Audit and Accountability Act 2014, assess merits, coordinate with audit teams, and issue decisions
• Act as a primary contact for whistleblowing disclosures relevant to audited bodies, ensure confidentiality and proper escalation
• Respond to matters raised under auditing standards and the National Audit Code, coordinate follow-up with engagement teams within statutory timescales
• Contribute to internal guidance and policies, support training across local audit practice, and represent the firm externally in formal communications and meetings with regulators

Key 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
• Curiosity about public accountability and commitment to the public interest

• Strong written communication
• Analytical thinking
• Stakeholder management
• Knowledge of Local Audit and Accountability Act 2014 (LAAA 2014)
• Knowledge of the National Audit Code
• Familiarity with audit quality and oversight frameworks

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