Technology Risk & Controls Transformation Specialist

Why we're hiring:

This role is pivotal in supporting WPP’s large-scale ERP transformation programmes by embedding robust SDLC and transformation controls, driving compliance with our data and security requirements, and ensuring audit readiness for obligations such as SOX 404 IO. As a key member of the central assurance team, you will deliver control assurance and actively coach project teams, while also playing a strategic role in shaping the group’s compliance and controls posture to be more consistent, standardised, and repeatable.

You will support the Transformations Lead in delivering judgement led, risk based assurance across ERP migrations and SDLC controls. The role focuses on strengthening first line capability, uplifting evidence quality, and ensuring controls are executed and documented to audit standards. You will work closely with Financial Risk & Controls colleagues to ensure transformation controls are aligned and integrated with financial controls. While accountability for operating SDLC controls and producing complete, accurate evidence sits with project and delivery teams, this role ensures they are equipped to demonstrate control performance clearly and consistently, guiding them to meet their obligations and targeting assurance effort where it adds the most value.

What you'll be doing:

As a pivotal member of our team, you will drive robust control frameworks and foster a culture of accountability across our transformation initiatives. Your key accountabilities will include:

SDLC & Transformation Controls Governance:

• Govern and evaluate all phases of the SDLC, meticulously reviewing documentation, testing evidence, change artefacts, and data migration reconciliations from Initiation through Post-Go-Live.
• Develop and manage comprehensive evidence checklists and trackers, ensuring continuous completeness, accuracy, and audit readiness for all control activities.
• Mentor and empower project teams to proactively generate credible, high-quality, and self-sufficient evidence packages.
• Provide critical insights to the Transformations Lead on control readiness, evidence integrity, and any impediments impacting assurance progression.

Strategic Stakeholder Engagement & Reporting:

• Collaborate strategically with Project Managers, the Financial Risk & Controls group, Business Owners, and Technical Leads to define, clarify, and embed stringent control expectations and evidence standards.
• Generate insightful and concise reports that detail control posture, highlight emerging