Independent Assurance Reviewer

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is seeking to appoint an Independent Assurance Reviewer on a Direct Ministerial Appointment (DMA) basis.

The Reviewer will lead an Independent Assurance Review to evaluate the thoroughness and effectiveness of the efforts made by DWP to gather and review evidence related to DWP prosecutions of Post Office staff during the period 1996–2012.

DWP is responsible for delivering benefit payments, and prior to 2006 benefits were paid through orderbooks and giro cheques via the Post Office. Where benefits were identified as having been potentially accessed fraudulently, DWP investigated and took forward prosecutions of some Post Office staff, including sub-postmasters/sub-postmistresses, for offences such as benefit fraud and theft.

In light of what has been identified with the Horizon system that was in operation at the Post Office between 1996-2012, DWP has been reviewing remaining information in relation to these prosecutions to assess the role of the Horizon system.

Although many DWP historic records have been destroyed in line with GDPR due to their age, the Department has conducted extensive archival searches and reviewed the documents that were available. To date, the information available indicates that DWP cases differed materially, specifically that they did not rely on Horizon evidence to prove the case. However, the Department wishes to further assure itself and is therefore seeking an independent expert to examine the Department’s approach and review any further materials that may be provided by individuals or organisations.

Key Responsibilities 

The appointed Independent Assurance Reviewer will: 

• Thoroughly assess the steps taken by DWP since the launch of the Horizon Inquiry to gather and review evidence related to DWP prosecutions during the Horizon period.
• Establish a process to engage with individuals and organisations to obtain any other relevant information.
• Produce a report for the Permanent Secretary (and DWP Ministers if appropriate) setting out any recommendations for DWP to consider.
• Act with appropriate sensitivity, confidentiality, and discretion in the handling of all information and engagements.

A dedicated secretariat is already in place and will support the Reviewer in their task, including by providing the Reviewer access to all relevant materials and information necessary for the review.

This is a part time role, expected commitment is approximately 30 days over a 6 month period. 

Candidates must demonstrate: 

• Proven ability to assess factual evidence objectively and critically and the ability to design and deliver an impartial review methodology.
• Experience operating at board or equivalent senior level, providing strategic oversight, governance, and independent judgement in a public body or comparable context.   Examples include, but are not limited to:

1. 1. 1. Senior judicial, legal, or regulatory roles with independent decision-making authority. 
      2. Non-executive director, chair, or board member of a public body, sitting on an executive board, management board, or equivalent senior committee, providing independent advice or challenge to Ministers, accounting officers, or senior executives on public policy matters.
      3. Leading or chairing independent reviews, inquiries, panels, or commissions. 

• Integrity, credibility, and sound judgement when handling complex and sensitive materials. 
• Experience leading teams and producing detailed, evidence driven reports.
• Resilience, calm decision making, and the ability to operate effectively under pressure.
• Confidence and professionalism when operating in politically sensitive and potentially high-profile environments, including situations involving media interest

Desirable Criteria

• A senior barrister, solicitor, retired judge, or legal academic.
• A good understanding of criminal law and procedure. 

For full details and to apply clickHERE