UK Independence Team – Risk Management – Independence 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 Associate within the Hospitality, Gifts & Favours (HGF) area of the UK Independence team.

The HGF sub function is responsible for overseeing the firm’s compliance with the very strict HGF requirements imposed by the UK Financial Reporting Council (FRC) and other independence regulators with respect to EY audit clients.

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

Your key responsibilities

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

• Provision of professional Independence HGF advice to the business
• Supporting with the ongoing, periodic review and analysis of Independence detect controls in relation to HGF
• Produce and assist with the detailed monthly review and reconciliation of HGF reports, including follow‑up protocols, liaising with stakeholders, tracking the resolution of open matters to completion, and other activities related to these controls
• Supporting with the review of HGF related queries and consultations
• Overseeing the maintenance of the HGF team Share-Point site, including relevant guidance and quick reference guides
• Support and collaboration with offshore support centre colleagues to ensure outsourced HGF Independence activities are completed timely and accurately

Experience

Candidates must possess the following skills and experience:

• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
• Highly organised, with the ability to support project activities and manage workload effectively
• Flexible and adaptable, with good teamwork skills and the ability to handle multiple tasks
• Able to work to deadlines and maintain high-quality output
• Willingness to learn and understand complex concepts, with support from senior team members
• Proactive mindset, with the confidence to use initiative when appropriate
• Clear and professional communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with colleagues

Whilst Independence or Risk Management experience is not essential for this role, it would be beneficial.

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.