This is an exciting opportunity for an individual to make a meaningful impact in a dynamic, close team with a big influence.

We are looking for a qualified solicitor to join the Investigations team as Case Officer to play a leading role in the investigation of complaints received by ICAS against members and firms, ensuring that they are processed in accordance with ICAS’ Rules, Investigation Regulations and internal processes (with performance subject to regular review against KPIs and other outcome-based measurements).

The Case Officer is responsible for many of the key procedural decisions taken over the course of an investigation. While the ultimate decisions in an investigation (e.g. whether a member is liable to disciplinary action) will generally be taken by members of the Investigation Committee, the Case Officer will be expected to provide legal and procedural support.

This role plays an important part in protecting the public confidence and upholding high standards in the accountancy profession. As a professional body ICAS is subject to oversight by multiple government regulatory bodies, including the Financial Reporting Committee (FRC), the Insolvency Service, and the Office for Professional Body Anti-Money Laundering Supervision (OPBAS).

While the role reports into the Director of Investigations, you will be expected to discharge your responsibilities with little or no oversight, exercising professional judgement and understanding how to prioritise in a highly-challenging regulatory environment where outcomes have may have a significant impact on the reputation of ICAS.

Who do we need?

We are looking for a solicitor with a current practising certificate, preferably with a professional discipline and regulation or litigation background. Demonstrable experience working in professional regulation or similar complaints or investigations environment would be highly desirable.

We are looking for someone with a keen eye for detail and a naturally inquisitive nature. A person adept at handling cases with integrity and discretion, with an open mind and an ability to ask the right questions to uncover the detail within a case. Some cases may be very complex in nature, so also someone who has the tenacity and foresight to manage the case, and those impacted by it, to a clear and fair conclusion.

The investigations team is a small team who work very closely together. Therefore, to be a successful addition our team, we need someone with a very collaborative nature, able to work well with others and fit into this team with ease, build effective relationships, and have a positive and open approach.

Excellent oral and written communication skills are also essential attributes to have as you will be liaising and communicating with a broad range of individuals, dealing with a broad range of complaints and working with a wide spectrum of concerns which may take you out of your comfort zone.

Some Principal Accountabilities:

• Ensuring that complaints received by ICAS are investigated in accordance with the Rules, Regulations, internal protocols and any applicable KPIs. This will include assisting the Investigation Committee, preparing reports, notes of meetings, and decision notices, as well as engaging with members and complainers.

• Providing quality legal advice and support to members of the Investigations team who are not legally qualified.

• Presenting formal complaints to ICAS Discipline Tribunals, including representing ICAS at disciplinary hearings.

• Leading or participating on reviews of process, policies and practices to ensure that the complaints process is best practice and operates as effectively and efficiently as possible. Proactively identifying and implementing improvements and other changes, including the drafting of ICAS Rules, Regulations and associated process and guidance documents.

• Assisting with the communication strategy for disciplinary matters, pursuing a proactive approach to content across various mediums (including website content, webinars and other presentations).

• Assisting the Director of Investigations with the day-to-day operations of the Investigations Department – e.g. internal and external reporting of complaints information, assisting on responses to consultations and attendance at regulatory forums and meetings of external oversight bodies (including inspection visits).

• Providing quality advice and assistance to individuals who submit regulatory and ethical queries to ICAS.

What you get?

As well as ICAS being a great place to work, with great people and an open and accessible executive team, we also offer a competitive salary, and generous staff flex benefits package which includes:

Private medical insurance, 35 days annual leave with option to purchase additional holiday, pension (9% employer contribution), your birthday day off, life assurance, health care and screening, dental care, technology, and cycle to work scheme, purchase discount vouchers/gym membership and an annual individual learning allowance to spend on personal development.

How to apply

Please click on the link below to apply by completing the short online details and attaching your CV. ICAS Careers

Closing Date: 20th August.

Please note we are not an institute that can provide sponsorship, therefore a valid right to work in the UK is required for this role.