Principal Audit Investigator

• Principal_Investigator__PO5_

Please apply online via the link provided.

Job Title: Principal Audit Investigator

Language: UK

Organisation: Hackney Council Anonymous Apps > Finance & Corporate Resources

Job Number: HCAA02903

Service: Audit & Anti Fraud

DBS Required: Yes

Organisation Logo: Hackney Council

Agreement Type: Permanent

Work Pattern: Full Time

Contracted Hours: 36

Grade: PO5

SCP Range: £55,353 - £57,495

Hackney is one of Britain’s most exciting and fastest-changing boroughs. We have changed the reputation, not just of the Council, but of Hackney itself.

The Audit Investigation Team is at the forefront of protecting the Council and its hard-won reputation for good governance and effective internal control. We are looking for a self-motivated and effective team player to succeed in the role of Principal Investigator (scale PO5).

You will undertake all aspects of the investigation process, from receipt of a referral through to case disposal, including preparation of reports and witness statements, and attendance at court and disciplinary hearings.

The ideal applicant will have excellent communications skills (verbal and written), strong analytical skills and be able to interpret complex information. You will also have the credibility and confidence to influence Chief Officers and ensure that recommendations arising from investigations are implemented.

You will undertake enquiries across a wide range of Council activities and be passionate about protecting Council services from fraud and other offences. You will work closely with other highly skilled professionals and partner agencies and have a sound knowledge of relevant legislation and guidance. You must have a relevant qualification combined with experience in carrying out criminal investigations in an internal audit and counter fraud service in the public sector.

An enhanced DBS check is required.

Hybrid working arrangements are in place which allow for up to 3 days home working each week.

As a Council, our most outstanding asset is our staff, who are highly dedicated to serving our residents and committed to our goals as an organisation.

If you want to work in a place where you can represent our values so we achieve the best for our residents, please click on the apply button below.

We operate a fair and open anonymous selection process. Therefore, we do not accept supporting statements or CV’s.

To proceed with your application, you will need to create an account and submit your application.

As part of the application process, you will need to complete a number of competency based questions. These questions allow you to demonstrate your suitability for the role and provide examples of your skills, knowledge and experience outlined in the job description.

We understand the benefits of using AI in the workplace. However, if you are thinking of using this tool to submit your application, we ask you to think about what value it will add. AI tools tend to lack the personal touch and authenticity we value in candidates. We encourage you to showcase your unique knowledge and skills using your own voice.

This application process replaces a supporting statement.

Closing date for applications: 31 May 2026 (22:59)

Interview date: W/c 15 June 2026

We are also working towards our vision, which is to be a place for everyone; where residents and staff can be proud; a place that celebrates diversity and where everyone can feel valued, included and involved. In order to achieve this, we look for people who are: Proud; Ambitious; Pioneering; Open; Proactive; Inclusive.

Hackney Council works to eradicate discrimination on the basis of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. We also recognise that people can be disadvantaged by their social and economic circumstances, so we will also work to eliminate discrimination and disadvantage caused by social class. We also welcome those interested in flexible working. We particularly welcome applications from disabled people, as this group is currently under represented in our workforce.

The Council has a dedicated employment support service (Hackney Works), which offers Hackney residents guidance in relation to applying for jobs. If you are thinking about applying for a job, please contact the Hackney Works team to find out what support is available: hackneyworks@hackney.gov.uk