Senior Internal Auditor, Marks & Spencer

M&S Internal Audit & Risk Opportunity: Shape the Future of Retail

Are you an experienced auditor looking to make a significant impact within a globally recognized brand undergoing an exciting period of transformation? This role within the M&S Internal Audit & Risk (IA&R) team offers a unique blend of traditional audit practices and forward-thinking data analytics, providing a dynamic and challenging career path. If you are driven by variety, collaboration, and the opportunity to influence a leading retailer's journey, this position could be an excellent next step for you.

M&S is not just a retailer; it's a brand with a rich heritage and an ambitious vision for the future. This role places you at the heart of shaping how M&S operates, both in the UK and internationally. You’ll have the chance to engage with a diverse range of business areas, offering unparalleled exposure and continuous learning opportunities.

Advantages for Aspiring Professionals:

• Broad Exposure & Variety: Work across a wide spectrum of M&S operations, from commercial functions to group-level activities, ensuring your role is consistently engaging and offers a broad understanding of the business.
• Data Analytics Integration: This role goes beyond traditional auditing. You'll leverage cutting-edge data analytics tools like SQL, Python, and Power BI, enhancing your skillset and making your insights more impactful. This is a prime opportunity to develop expertise in a highly sought-after area.
• Trusted Advisor Role: As a key member of the IA&R team, you'll be a trusted advisor, reviewing business operations, supporting control environment enhancements, and driving tangible improvements. This position offers significant influence and a chance to be a change agent.
• Collaborative Environment: M&S champions a hybrid working model, with support teams in the office three days a week. This fosters skill development through collaboration, creativity, and strong team connections.
• Career Development: The opportunity to coach and mentor junior auditors provides valuable leadership experience and contributes to your professional growth.
• Impactful Work: Be part of a company that serves millions of customers daily and is committed to doing the right thing. Your work will directly contribute to M&S's success and its conscientious, inspiring digital era.
• Comprehensive Benefits: M&S offers a rewarding benefits package, including a generous colleague discount, competitive holiday allowance, bonus schemes, strong pension and life assurance, and extensive wellbeing support.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Experience & Qualifications: While previous internal audit experience is essential, a professional qualification (ACA, ACCA, or IIA) is highly valued. If you're looking to gain this qualification, M&S's commitment to training and development could be a significant advantage.
• Data Acumen: A strong understanding of risk and control methodologies is fundamental. An existing interest or experience in data analytics (SQL, Python, R, Power BI) will be instrumental in succeeding in this role. If you are eager to upskill in data analytics, this is an excellent platform.
• Retail & Multi-Channel Background: While not essential, experience in retail, programme assurance, or multi-channel environments is a definite advantage. This indicates M&S values candidates who understand the complexities of the retail sector.
• Travel Commitment: Occasional travel (5-10%) is part of the role. Candidates should be comfortable with this expectation.
• Proactive Application: Due to high interest, the role may close sooner than advertised. It's advisable to apply promptly to secure consideration.

This role at M&S is more than just a job; it's an invitation to contribute to the evolution of a beloved brand. If you're seeking a career that combines strategic auditing with advanced analytics, and you're ready to make a tangible difference, we encourage you to explore this exciting opportunity.