Head of Business Assurance - HIRC
| Company: | Mitie |
|---|---|
| Salary: | Not specified |
| Hours: | Full-time |
| Location: | UB7 0FX |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Posting date: | 13 Aug 2026 |
| Closing date: | 12 Sept 2026 |
Summary
We are looking for a Head of Business Assurance to lead the delivery of an efficient and effective Business Assurance function. The successful candidate will provide business assurance to the Centre Manager in line with Home Office and Mitie Policies and Procedures. This role includes the line management of a team responsible for duties within the function and forming part of a roster for senior on-call support to the Duty Directors, along with the Centre Manager and other senior posts.
As a Head of Business Assurance, you will be accountable for managing the business assurance function and all staff within this area. This includes overseeing activities related to Centre Business Delivery & Planning, Performance Management, Resource Management & Change Management, Staff Welfare, Audit & Assurance, and Facilities Management.
You will develop and complete the Centre's Service Delivery Requirements in line with the Home Office contract, ensuring that information and outcomes on performance and delivery are provided to the Centre Manager within agreed deadlines. You will be responsible for the accurate reporting of performance data and the production of various reports as required by Mitie and the Home Office. Additionally, you will produce the annual Centre business strategy and ensure arrangements support partnership activity within the Centre. You will manage budgets devolved by the Centre Manager and act as the single point of contact for information on partnership working with external service providers and stakeholders.
You will have strategic oversight and management of the Centre's staffing resource, including all Workforce Planning activities. You will ensure the effective and efficient use of staffing resources, planning and coordinating to ensure compliance with the contract. You will liaise with the Care and Custody Training Team regarding training courses and mandatory refresher training. You will develop and deliver effective Staff Engagement and Communication strategies, working closely with Mitie colleagues and external stakeholders regarding recruitment and workforce planning.
You will ensure the Centre's adherence to the contract with the Home Office and other associated Mitie policies. You will manage the Centre's Audit and Assurance activities, liaising with Mitie Audit and Assurance colleagues and Home Office compliance teams. You will ensure timely reporting and understanding of all the Centre's Key Performance Indicators and assurance reporting. Additionally, you will develop and monitor Third Party Action Plans and ensure robust audit control mechanisms are in place.
You will promote Mitie policies and values throughout all areas of delivery, manage the Centre's Complaints Process, oversee performance improvement programmes, and attend relevant meetings, deputising for the Centre Manager as required. You will ensure compliance with Health and Safety legislation, contribute to the preparation of the Centre contingency and emergency plans, and carry out investigations and administration related to incidents of potential discrimination, complaints, and misconduct. You will provide leadership and management of the Function, apply all HR-related policies and practices, and lead on social value activities within the Centre.
About You
Candidates must have experience of working within a custodial environment at a senior level and a commitment to providing a safe, decent, and secure environment for all. Experience of incident management and resolution at Silver Commander level is required, as is demonstrable experience of performance improvement and management of key performance indicators to enhance service delivery.
Knowledge of third-party expectations, including HMIP, is essential, along with a demonstrable commitment to Mitie Values and expected behaviours. Candidates should possess commercial acumen, including budget management and driving financial efficiencies, as well as experience of line management and supporting/coaching staff across various functions.
The ability to perform well under pressure and balance competing priorities is crucial, as is experience of establishing and maintaining stakeholder relationships at a senior level.
Experience of working within the immigration sector and a working knowledge of relevant policies and procedures are desirable. An understanding of QHSE legislation and its application in a custodial setting, as well as knowledge of facilities management legislation, is advantageous.