Internal Audit

Our client, a premier financing company with a presence across the country is looking for a Head – Internal Audit to join their team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for carrying out business process analysis by reviewing the quality of business processes, evaluating the implications of process design improvement recommendations on the business strategic objectives and obtain buy-in of process owners to accept recommendations.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities:

Drive Internal Audit quality assurance by reviewing the results of assessments, establishing a reporting structure for the result of the assessments that maintains appropriate credibility and objectivity, and communicate opportunities to Senior Management and the board.

Responsible for driving Internal Audit engagement execution by identifying and escalating strategic implications to the business from audit engagement findings as well as evaluating the significant risk exposures and control issues including fraud risk and governance.

Responsible for driving Internal Audit engagement planning by evaluating completeness and relevance of risk assessments, evaluate the relevance and the prioritization or focus of the audit plans and its alignment with Internal Audit and business strategies.

Lead and asses the annual risk analysis to formulate risk-based audit actions plans.

Participate in the strategic information gathering and analysis process by evaluating business insights, assess the strategic implications and make appropriate recommendations as well as communicate high risk areas with process owners, Senior Management and the Board.

Drive the fraud risk management process by evaluating fraud detection and reporting tools and measures, as well as evaluate adequacy of risk response strategy and practices to deter and prevent fraud.

Support the governance process through engaging the board and senior management on governance best practices and issues.

Responsible for developing safeguards to maintain auditors’ independence.

Conduct reviews of internal controls and accounting procedures to ensure that they are operating effectively.

Review financial statements, research financial trends, and prepare forecasts for possible upcoming scenarios.

Evaluate the effectiveness of risk management programs within the organization to ensure that risks are identified and managed appropriately.

Conduct special audits and investigations into suspected misconduct by employees or board members.

Review and adjust the internal audit team skills mix and diversity according to the organization’s objectives and risks.

Develop and implement a plan for professional and career development of Internal Audit staff.

Establish clear performance standards for internal auditors and the internal audit function.

Determine an adequate budget to support Internal Audit planned activities.

Effectively lead internal audit staff/team and facilitate proper succession plans.

Prepare internal audit reports within time.

Desired Skills, Qualifications and Experience:

Must possess a full Grade 12 Certificate.

Professional Accounting/Auditing qualification.

Must have hands on experience with 10 years or more in Internal Audit with 5-7 years at supervisory/management level.

Prior experience in a financial institution is an added advantage.

Must have membership with ZICA/ACCA and/or other relevant professional bodies.

High level of business acumen.

Good judgement and good decision-making ability.

Must have demonstrable leadership capacity and be able to coach and develop internal audit staff.

Committed team player with the ability to interact with all levels of management in the organization.

Highly developed written and oral communication skills.

Ability to work in pressured and deadline-driven operating environment.

Detail-oriented with the technical aptitude and ability to perform tasks accurately and comprehensively.

Expert in multi-tasking, time management and planning of work.