The National Trust’s commitment is “For everyone, for ever.” Bringing that promise to life starts with the people that work here. It means building teams with a diverse range of backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. It means creating an inclusive environment where everyone is able to thrive. Our positions are open to all, and we welcome applications from all backgrounds to support our ambitions of reflecting the communities we serve and ending unequal access.
We’re seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Risk & Assurance to lead our organisation-wide approach to risk management and internal audit.
This is a critical leadership role operating at the heart of the organisation, working closely with the Executive Team, senior leaders and Board of Trustees. You’ll provide independent assurance, expert insight and constructive challenge, helping to strengthen governance and support confident decision-making.
What it's like to work here:We care for nature, beauty and history for everyone, forever. We’re a values-driven organisation that puts people at the heart of everything we do. You’ll be joining a collaborative, forward-thinking team where inclusion, sustainability, and continuous improvement are key. We offer a supportive environment and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact across the organisation.
Your contractual location will be our head office in Swindon and there will be an expectation for you to attend the office. However, there is flexibility on where you are based at other times. You’ll be required to work at a National Trust location for 40-60% of your working week. This will be discussed in more detail at interview.
What you'll be doing:You’ll lead our Risk & Assurance function, bringing together risk management and internal audit to provide a clear and joined-up view of how we manage uncertainty and opportunity across the organisation. You’ll shape and embed our risk framework, helping teams identify and manage risks effectively, while overseeing a high-quality, risk-based internal audit programme that delivers meaningful insight and strong assurance.
Working closely with senior leaders, the Executive Team and Trustees, you’ll build trusted relationships and provide both support and challenge to inform decision-making. You’ll lead and develop a skilled and committed team, fostering a culture of openness, collaboration and continuous improvement, and using what we learn from assurance activity to strengthen governance, improve performance and help the organisation stay resilient in a changing world.
Who we're looking forYou’ll be a credible, influential professional with the experience and confidence to operate at a senior level in a complex organisation.
- Professionally qualified in Risk, Internal Audit or Accountancy (or equivalent experience)
- Significant experience leading risk management and/or internal audit functions
- Strong strategic thinking, with the ability to balance detail and big-picture context
- Proven leadership skills with experience building and developing high-performing teams
- Excellent communication and influencing skills, including experience engaging with Executive and Board-level stakeholders
- Experience managing external audit providers and delivering value for money
- Ability to navigate complexity, manage competing priorities and drive meaningful outcomes
The packageThe National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.
- Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary
- Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
- Rental deposit loan scheme
- EV car lease scheme (for roles that meet the salary criteria)
- Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts
- Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.
- Flexible working whenever possible
- Employee assistance programme
- Free parking at most Trust places
Requirements :Compliance.Eligibility to Work in the UK
Permanent f/t (37.5 hrs pw)
