Senior Associate, Internal Audit - Public/Higher Education/ Purpose

Grant Thornton Australia is one of the world's leading independently-owned and managed accounting, advisory and consulting firms.

Our culture is underpinned by a commitment to our clients, people and communities, and our promise to ‘Reach for Remarkable’ by providing proven expertise, principled execution, and personalised experience.

In Australia, we’re proud to support the careers of over 1,500 remarkable people. With six offices nationally and partner firms in more than 145 markets, wherever you want to go, we can take you there.

About this role

Step into a vibrant and fast-growing Internal Audit & Risk Consulting practice where purpose meets performance. You’ll join a team that thrives on collaboration, CARE culture, and meaningful work—partnering with Tier 1 organisations on high-impact projects that shape the future of risk and assurance.

We’re looking for a passionate Senior Associate with a strong foundation in internal audit standards, risk and controls, and regulatory frameworks. Whether you’ve worked directly in public, higher education, or for-purpose organisations—or gained relevant experience in professional services—this is your chance to make a difference. Bring your expertise, energy, and ideas to a team that values your voice and empowers your growth.

Key responsibilities

• Delivering end-to-end client internal audit and risk consulting engagements (with oversight and guidance from a manager).

• Understanding clients’ risk environments and applying knowledge to deliver practical solutions.

• On-site delivery of engagements which will include managing client interactions and overseeing junior resources and coaching junior staff.

• Working with managers to develop high quality reports and engagement deliverables.

• Contributing to commercial problem solving through analysis, critical thinking, and logical reasoning.

• Presenting outcomes to clients and internal stakeholders to influence decision-making.

Skills & experience

• CA, CIA or other relevant professional qualification is ideal but not required. Candidates currently pursuing professional qualifications are also welcome to apply.

• Should be At least 3 years in providing Internal Audit service either in-house or professional services capacity and have a passion to work with Public Sector / Higher Education and / or For Purpose organisations

• Practical experience in business risk, business process reviews or internal audit.

• Able to design and prepare audit documentation.

• Able to engage with clients and diverse stakeholder groups.

• Strong team working skills, with experience in managing and developing junior staff.

• Well-developed listening and questioning techniques, supported by strong analytical skills and organisational activities.

• Curious, keen to learn from others, able to operate independent and have a continuous improvement mindset.

If you’re interested in this role but don’t feel that you match every single one of our requirements, we would still love to hear from you and explore the unique skillset and attributes that you can bring to the team.

Reach your remarkable

At Grant Thornton we do things differently because we understand that when you strive for better and care about what you do remarkable things are possible. We’re a dynamic and authentic mix of backgrounds, perspectives and ways of thinking. We’re driven by our shared purpose – we care for our people, clients and communities and support them to thrive.

With us, you’ll be exposed to challenging and rewarding opportunities – building your confidence and capabilities at every step. You’ll be supported, motivated and inspired by a team of passionate and caring collaborators and leaders.

You’ll be empowered to build a career path that’s tailored to you and encouraged to make a meaningful difference. And we’ll make sure the excellence you deliver and the impact you make is always seen, felt and celebrated.

Remarkable perks that put you first:

• Tailored mentoring program and the opportunity to work closely with Partners who care about your growth and development.

• Work overseas or interstate, (short periods as agreed with the team) knowing how important time is with your family and friends.

• Free annual gym membership to help keep you flexible, fit and healthy.

• Active employee networks and social committees to get you involved in the things you are passionate about

• And many more!

Need some help applying or participating in the recruitment process?

We are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible for anyone who wishes to apply, and we warmly encourage applications from individuals from diverse backgrounds including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islanders, those in the LGBTQI+ community and individuals who identify as having disability or are neurodivergent.  Click here for recruitment support information and to learn more about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Grant Thornton.

Should you have questions or require any adaptations or additional support for your individual circumstances so you may perform at your best during the application or recruitment process please contact our Talent Acquisition team at [email protected]

As we provide fair consideration and evaluation to a high volume of applications, we endeavour to provide feedback on your application at the earliest opportunity.

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