Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Accomplishments
Timeline
Generic

Kate Hamer

Ashton in Makerfield,Lancs

Summary

As an experienced Internal Audit Manager specialising in process and procedure analysis to enhance compliance and drive strategic improvements through data management and automation. As an individual with skills in planning, prioritising, and delivering audits on time, with a meticulous approach to identifying and resolving compliance issues.

The attention to detail ensures accuracy and reliability in all audit findings.

With extensive experience collaborating with stakeholders, I am proactive and skilled in analysis, problem-solving, multitasking, leadership, and communication. This skill set allows me to deliver insightful reports, lead cross-functional teams, and manage projects that support business growth.

In addition to managing administrative tasks and mentoring employees, I continuously work to improve customer service and business operations. A dedicated and enthusiastic professional who thrives under pressure, fosters teamwork, and adapts to challenges, with a strong background in data accuracy, process improvement, and operational efficiency, enables consistency in meeting company goals and supporting business success.

As a customer-oriented leader with a history of driving high-performance teams, I am committed to excellence and continuous development, with a passion for training, team building, and delivering results through organization and attention to detail.

Overview

26
26
years of professional experience
2004
2004
years of post-secondary education

Work History

Group Internal Audit Manager

DFS Furniture Group PLC
Golborne, Wigan
03.2015 - 10.2024
  • Conducted internal audits to identify potential risks for the company.
  • Developed audit plans and strategies for compliance with regulatory requirements.
  • Created an annual audit schedule to ensure timely completion.
  • Liaised with external auditors to facilitate smooth auditing process.
  • Managed a team of internal auditors, ensuring high standards of work.
  • Produced accurate audit reports, maintaining transparency within the organisation.
  • Identified areas for improvement by conducting thorough risk-based audits.
  • Implemented new audit procedures, enhancing efficiency in operations.
  • Developed comprehensive checklists for audit processes to ensure consistency in approach.
  • Designed audit dashboards to enhance Business Intelligence and KPI reporting to highlight results and findings where necessary.
  • Resolved complex auditing issues, providing creative solutions when needed.
  • Streamlined auditing procedures to improve productivity and time management.
  • Communicated findings from audits clearly with stakeholders, maintaining open lines of communication.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry regulations and standards, staying ahead of changes.
  • Provided constructive feedback after each audit session leading to continuous improvement.
  • Reported on control deficiencies to management and made recommendations to mitigate risk and add value.
  • Shaped internal audit strategy and methodology to meet company goals.
  • Verified implementation of controls through testing and interacting with relevant company staff.
  • Updated senior leaders regularly, reporting significant internal control issues.
  • Managed end-to-end audit process from scoping to fieldwork and report writing.
  • Coached internal audit team to achieve targets and fulfil deadlines.
  • Undertook continuous monitoring to drive improvements.
  • Carried out spot checks on physical stock, trade debtors and key areas to identify and resolve issues.
  • Executed ad hoc and special investigations and reviews.
  • Assessed staff efficiency and productivity and made recommendations for improvements.
  • Issued targeted follow-ups to improve company processes.
  • Collaborated across teams to implement Three Lines of Defence model.
  • Coordinated resources and reporting within virtual team setting.
  • Recruited high-achieving team members for enhanced department performance.
  • Completed Investigatory and disciplinary manager tasks.

Internal auditor

Dunraven Finance
Swansea, South Wales
10.2010 - 03.2015
  • Improved risk management by conducting comprehensive internal audits.
  • Identified areas for improvement during regular assessment of financial procedures.
  • Streamlined processes by identifying inefficiencies in current systems.
  • Conducted thorough investigations into suspected fraudulent activity to ensure company integrity.
  • Developed and implemented new audit strategies, enhancing operational efficiency.
  • Ensured compliance with regulatory standards through diligent auditing practices.
  • Maintained detailed records of all audits conducted for future reference and analysis.
  • Provided valuable insights to management on financial discrepancies identified during audits.
  • Assisted in the development of annual audit plans, facilitating effective resource allocation.
  • Collaborated with management in developing remediation plans following audits, strengthening internal controls.
  • Prepared detailed reports summarising audit findings, aiding decision-making at executive level.
  • Coordinated cross-functional teams to conduct internal audits seamlessly without disrupting daily operations.
  • Carried out spot checks on physical stock, trade debtors and key areas to identify and resolve issues.
  • Managed end-to-end audit process from scoping to fieldwork and report writing.

Branch Manager

Welcome Financial Services
Warrington, Cheshire
01.1999 - 09.2010
  • Improved branch productivity by implementing efficient work schedules.
  • Developed and implemented strategies for increased customer satisfaction.
  • Managed daily operations to ensure smooth running of the branch.
  • Fostered a positive work environment, improving overall team morale.
  • Coordinated with other branches for seamless service delivery.
  • Liaised with clients, resulting in strong relationships and repeat business.
  • Provided excellent customer service, securing client loyalty.
  • Resolved customer complaints swiftly, maintaining company's reputation.
  • Ensured compliance with company policies, maintaining ethical standards.
  • Oversaw recruitment process, ensuring selection of competent staff members.
  • Conducted regular performance reviews for continuous employee development.
  • Ensured branch met all regulatory requirements for safe operation.
  • Identified and resolved operational issues impacting productivity, performance or profitability.
  • Directed day-to-day work of 20 employees and motivated teams to exceed objectives.
  • Created and led successful business culture focused on performance.
  • Partnered with management team to optimise operations and reduce costs.
  • Monitored operations to assess and highlight results.
  • Reviewed reports from subordinate management to identify areas of opportunity.
  • Maintained agile, responsible organisation with sustained revenue growth by monitoring industry forecasts, honing budgets and adjusting marketing strategies.

Education

CIIA Award Corporate Governance & Risk Management - Internal Audit

Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)
London
01.2018 - 01.2020

CIIA Award in Compliance Audit & Assurance - Internal Audit

Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)
London
01.2018 - 01.2020

CIIA Award Corporate Governance & Risk Management - Internal Audit

Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)
London
01.2018 - 01.2020

CIIA Award Effective Delivery of Audit & Assurance - Internal Audit

Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)
London
01.2018 - 01.2020

NVQ Level 3 National Nursery Examination Board - Early Child Care

Wigan & Leigh College
Wigan
06.1993 - 05.1995

GCSEs - Internal Audit

Local Educational Agency
UK

Skills

  • Auditing and Regulation principles
  • Data analysis and Fraud detection
  • Strategic planning within testing methods
  • IIA standards knowledge
  • Proactive and Resilient under pressure
  • Conflict resolution
  • MI reporting


Affiliations

  • Tapestry, Family, Reading and Swimming

Accomplishments

An award from the Institute of Internal Auditors for Outstanding Team in the Private Sector.



Timeline

CIIA Award Corporate Governance & Risk Management - Internal Audit

Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)
01.2018 - 01.2020

CIIA Award in Compliance Audit & Assurance - Internal Audit

Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)
01.2018 - 01.2020

CIIA Award Corporate Governance & Risk Management - Internal Audit

Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)
01.2018 - 01.2020

CIIA Award Effective Delivery of Audit & Assurance - Internal Audit

Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)
01.2018 - 01.2020

Group Internal Audit Manager

DFS Furniture Group PLC
03.2015 - 10.2024

Internal auditor

Dunraven Finance
10.2010 - 03.2015

Branch Manager

Welcome Financial Services
01.1999 - 09.2010

NVQ Level 3 National Nursery Examination Board - Early Child Care

Wigan & Leigh College
06.1993 - 05.1995

GCSEs - Internal Audit

Local Educational Agency
Kate Hamer