[matthewheath]

The AO does not have to be a UK citizen, no. If such a requirement were in place, it would be made clear. They do need to be based in the UK, though, as well as meet all other criteria outlined by UKVI.

The AO should be the most senior person involved in all recruitment of migrant workers. In this case, it is usually a manager, yes.

Where are the transparency concerns coming from? What information would you NOT want an AO to access?

It’s impossible to say whether Brexit would impact this. In theory, no, but if the UK leaves without a deal, EU migration would be affected. Non-EU migration would remain the same.

Let me know if you have any other questions.