Stephanie Smith

• Support the Head of Internal Audit in providing the Leadership Team and the Board with objective assurance as to the robustness of the Group’s risk framework and internal control environment, highlight areas for improvement and make recommendations for improvement.
• Support the Head of Internal Audit in the development and implementation of the Internal Audit function’s strategy (which includes its risk-based audit methodology).
• Deputise for the Head of Internal Audit and, as required, give expert opinion to the Simplyhealth Audit Committee, Risk & Capital Committee and Leadership Team meetings.
• Manage the delivery of the risk-based audit program in line with the agreed Internal Audit methodology and to the defined quality standards, which includes supporting the development of the Internal Auditors and undertaking quality assurance reviews as appropriate.
• Provide objective assurance through undertaking assigned risk-based internal audits, presenting the audit findings up to and including the Simplyhealth Leadership Team and Non-Executive Directors.
• Act as a catalyst for change within the organisation, identifying opportunities for business improvement, threats to the delivery of strategic plans and proposing suitable alternatives to management.
• Produce both standard and ad hoc audit outputs i.e. Audit Committee reporting/papers, as required.
• In a consultative/advisory capacity, provide management with advisory services to assist Simplyhealth in achieving its strategic objectives.
• A proven track record of delivering risk-based, comprehensive and pragmatic audit services in a financial services environment to assess, report on, and make suggestions for improving key operational and financial controls.

• Ensured compliance with regulatory standards through diligent auditing practices.
• Improved risk management by conducting comprehensive internal audits.
• Evaluated control systems to minimise risk or loss within the company and improve overall performance.
• 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.
• Presented audit results to senior leadership, providing insights into areas needing improvement.
• Collaborated with management in developing remediation plans following audits, strengthening internal controls.
• Managed end-to-end audit process from scoping to fieldwork and report writing.

Completed bespoke audits often having to factor in differing client circumstances and developing a rapport with senior personnel and stakeholders.