Primary CASS requirements:
Core Technical & Regulatory Expertise
• Strong knowledge of FCA CASS rules (CASS 6, 7, 8 and 10), including client money, custody, CMAR reporting, and application within a Large CASS firm context.
• Ability to interpret and apply UK CASS requirements across different models (e.g. Securities vs Custody), aligned to FCA expectations under CASS and SYSC.
CASS Operations & Process Expertise
• Hands-on experience with key processes (ICMR/ECMR, custody reconciliations, segregation calculations).
• Understanding of how technology, systems and data flows support CASS processes, including risks in complex operating and client-servicing models.
Internal Audit & Assurance Capability
Proven experience auditing CASS controls, including assessing design and operating effectiveness and identifying weaknesses, breaks and potential breaches.
Ability to deliver risk-based CASS audit coverage, including effective challenge of 1st and 2nd line and alignment to regulatory expectations.
Governance & Regulatory Engagement
• Experience with CASS governance, MI and breach escalation, with effective engagement across SMFs, Risk/Compliance, CASS Oversight and external stakeholders (incl. FCA/auditors).
• Strong understanding of Internal Audit’s role in providing independent assurance to the Board over client asset protection.
• Experience in UK regulated financial services, applying CASS requirements in large, complex environments, including service provision to CASS-regulated clients.
• Understanding of heightened FCA expectations for robust, independent CASS assurance beyond the external audit.
Core Technology & IT Risk Expertise:
• Strong understanding of IT General Controls (ITGCs) including access management, change management, incident management, and IT operations;
• Experience auditing cloud-based platforms;
• Knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks (e.g. NIST, ISO 27001) and their application in financial services environments.
Primary general audit requirements:
• Highly motivated and with a proven track record of strong influencing skills and the ability to liaise and work with senior management;
• Good understanding and working knowledge of current internal audit practices & techniques through significant years of progressive work experience within a financial services environment;
• Proven experience of developing and delivering audit plan within the financial services sector; and
• Experience of coaching and developing junior staff.