Independent Assurance Reviewer

Location: United Kingdom (Flexible, with some travel to Westminster)
Work Arrangement: Hybrid
Work Hours: Part-time (approximately 30 days over a 6-month period)
Compensation: £500 per day plus expenses

About the Role

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is seeking an Independent Assurance Reviewer to provide strategic oversight of a high-profile public review.

This role is appointed on a Direct Ministerial Appointment basis and focuses on evaluating the effectiveness and thoroughness of DWP’s efforts in reviewing evidence related to prosecutions of Post Office staff between 1996 and 2012.

The position requires an independent expert to assess the Department’s approach and review any additional materials submitted by individuals or organisations, ensuring an impartial and evidence-based evaluation process.

Responsibilities

The Independent Assurance Reviewer will assess the steps taken by DWP to gather and evaluate evidence since the launch of the Horizon Inquiry.

The role involves establishing processes to engage with individuals and organisations to obtain further relevant information and ensure a comprehensive review.

You will produce a formal report outlining findings and recommendations for the Permanent Secretary and, where appropriate, DWP Ministers.

The position requires handling sensitive information with a high level of confidentiality, discretion, and professionalism.

Candidate Requirements

Candidates must demonstrate the ability to assess factual evidence objectively and design and deliver an impartial review methodology.

Applicants should have experience operating at a senior level, providing strategic oversight, governance, and independent judgement within public bodies or similar environments.

Relevant experience may include senior roles within the judiciary, legal or regulatory functions, board-level or non-executive positions, or leading independent reviews, inquiries, or commissions.

Candidates must demonstrate integrity, credibility, and sound judgement when handling complex and sensitive matters, along with the ability to lead teams and produce detailed, evidence-based reports.

Strong resilience, decision-making ability under pressure, and confidence operating in high-profile or politically sensitive environments are essential.

Desirable Criteria

Experience as a senior barrister, solicitor, retired judge, or legal academic is advantageous.

A strong understanding of criminal law and legal procedures is also preferred.

Additional Requirements

Candidates must not have prior involvement with the Horizon IT system, the Horizon Inquiry, the Post Office, or any related parties.

Applicants must also not have held roles within the Department for Work and Pensions or other government departments that could compromise independence.

Successful candidates will be required to declare any conflicts of interest and comply with agreed mitigation measures.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted by 13 April 2026 at 10:00am.

Candidates are required to submit a CV of no more than two pages and a written statement of up to 500 words outlining their experience in objectively assessing evidence and delivering impartial reviews.

The selection process may include longlisting, virtual interviews, and a final in-person interview with a DWP Minister. Candidates will also undergo due diligence checks as part of the process.

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