Group Risk and Controls Director

Why we are hiring:

Shape the Future of WPP’s Internal Controls

• Be a Leader in a Global Powerhouse: Take the helm of risk and control for the corporate functions at WPP, a creative transformation company and global leader in communications services. This high-impact role reports directly to Finance Leadership, offering you the chance to shape strategy and drive impactful change across our corporate functions, including Group Reporting, Treasury, and other key corporate functions.
• Make Your Mark on WPP’s Financial Health: As Corporate Risk and Control Director, you’ll be the guardian of our financial integrity. You’ll lead the charge in identifying and mitigating risks, ensuring our control frameworks are robust and future-proof. This includes overseeing our SOX 404 program for the corporate functions, collaborating with internal and external audit, and driving continuous improvement in our internal controls.
• Beyond the Numbers - Drive ESG and Non-Financial Control: This isn’t just about financial reporting. Supporting our Sustainability team, you’ll play a pivotal role in developing and implementing control frameworks for ESG and other non-financial reporting, contributing to WPP’s commitment to sustainable and responsible business practices.
• Lead and Inspire a High-Performing Team: Build and mentor a team of risk and control professionals, fostering a culture of collaboration, learning, and accountability. Empower your team to excel and contribute to WPP’s overall success.

What you will be doing:

Key Responsibilities (Highlights):

• Lead WPP’s ICFR/SOX 404 program for corporate functions.
• Develop and implement risk and control frameworks (financial and non-financial, including ESG).
• Collaborate with key stakeholders, including internal and external audit and corporate function leadership.
• Provide expert controls advisory and training.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team.

What You Bring:

• A Chartered Accountant or CPA qualification is desirable for this role.
• Strong risk and control background (external audit, internal audit, or second line experience).
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Experience with Group Reporting/Head Office finance is a plus.

Who you are:

You’re open: We are inclusive and collaborative; we encourage the free exchange of ideas; we respect and celebrate diverse views. We are accepting: of new ideas, new partnerships, new ways of working.

You’re optimistic: We believe in the power of creativity, technology and talent to create brighter futures or our people, our clients and our communities. We approach all that we do with conviction: to try the new and to seek the unexpected.

You’re extraordinary: We are stronger together: through collaboration we achieve the amazing. We are creative leaders and pioneers of our industry; we provide extraordinary every day.

What we’ll give you:

Passionate, inspired people – We promote a culture of people that do extraordinary work.

Scale and opportunity – We offer the opportunity to create, influence and complete projects at a scale that is unparalleled in the industry.

Challenging and stimulating work – Unique work and the opportunity to join a group of creative problem solvers. Are you up for the challenge?

Closing date: Friday 6th December 2024

1st stage interviews: w/c 16th December 2024

Join WPP and shape the future of risk management in a dynamic, global environment. Apply today.