Senior Assurance Officer (Trusted Research and Due Diligence)

The University of Surrey is a global community of ideas and people, dedicated to life-changing education and research. We are ambitious and have a bold vision - shaping ourselves into one of the best universities in the world - which we are achieving through the talents and endeavour of every employee. We are seeking a highly proactive Senior Assurance Officer to join our Assurance team.

About the role

The Senior Assurance Officer role within our Research, Innovation, and Impact (RII) division encompasses a diverse range of responsibilities aimed at ensuring the University of Surrey's adherence to governance policies and regulatory standards. This role particularly maintains a vigilant oversight of national policy initiatives, and best practices in trusted research and due diligence, leading the development and updating of external reporting requirements, informing the University's Trusted Research Agenda to align with regulatory frameworks and ensuring compliance with key legislation such as the National Security and Investment Act and Export Control legislation. 

Collaborating with stakeholders, this role will lead on the delivery of expert advice, guidance, training and support to researchers, management and professional services staff including managing risk assessments for new collaborations and partnerships, through fostering strong relationships with academic schools and University services to promote responsible research practices. 

About you

The ideal candidate for this role will be qualified to a Master’s or PhD level in Physical Sciences or Engineering, or will have equivalent research experience, plus a number of years practical relevant experience.  Proficiency in IT systems, excellent communication skills, and the ability to handle sensitive data discreetly are essential. Moreover, the candidate should possess strong networking and influencing abilities, along with experience consulting with regulatory bodies on governance, compliance, and risk mitigation. A willingness to occasionally travel for external conferences and events is also required to fulfil the responsibilities of this role effectively. 

 What we can offer

In addition to salary, you will receive a yearly incremental pay rise, generous annual leave entitlement of 25 days holiday plus 7 university closure days and 8 bank holidays (pro rata for part time roles), a generous pension, access to world-class leisure facilities on campus, a range of travel schemes, and supportive family friendly benefits including an excellent on-site nursery. 

How to apply

Please complete the online form along with a full CV and cover letter explaining your suitability for the role in no more than two pages. You should include specific detail about how you meet the essential criteria stated in the person specification, including core competencies. 

For an informal chat about the role, please contact Elizabeth Bailey via e.bailey@surrey.ac.uk 

Interviews will be held w/c 11th August.

The University of Surrey is committed to providing an inclusive environment that offers equal opportunities for all. We place great value on diversity and are seeking to increase the diversity within our community. Therefore we particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups, such as people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups and people with disabilities. 

Closing Date: 27 Jul 2025

Area: Professional Services

Salary: £37,174 to £40,497 per annum