Description
The Analyst will join BDO's Financial Services Advisory practice in Cape Town or Johannesburg, supporting assurance engagements across banks, insurers, asset managers, and other regulated financial institutions.
The IT External Auditor is responsible for supporting the delivery of external audit engagements by assessing IT general controls (ITGCs), application controls, interface testing, data analytics and executing procedures to support the financial audit opinion. The role ensures that technology risks impacting financial reporting are appropriately identified, tested, and addressed.
The individual will work closely with audit engagement teams and client stakeholders to deliver high-quality, timely audit outcomes in line with applicable auditing standards and firm methodology.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Audit Delivery
Perform IT audit procedures over key systems relevant to financial reporting
Evaluate the design and operating effectiveness of IT general controls, including:
User access management
Change management
IT operations (e.g., job monitoring, backups)
Assess automated controls and interface controls supporting financial processes
Document audit work, findings, and conclusions in line with audit methodology
Planning & Risk Assessment
Assist in identifying risks associated with IT systems impacting financial statements
Support the development of IT audit plans and procedures aligned to engagement risks
Liaise with financial audit teams to ensure appropriate IT audit scoping
Stakeholder Engagement
Engage with client IT and business stakeholders to request and obtain audit evidence
Facilitate discussions to understand system processes and controls
Communicate audit findings and observations clearly and professionally
Reporting
Identify control deficiencies and articulate clear, concise audit findings
Assist in preparing IT audit reports and deliverables for inclusion in audit opinions
Support timely communication of issues to management and audit teams
Quality & Compliance
Ensure work performed complies with auditing standards (e.g., ISA) and firm methodology
Maintain appropriate documentation and audit trails
Uphold independence and objectivity requirements as an external auditor
Requirements
KEY SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES
Technical Skills
Understanding of IT general controls and application controls
Knowledge of financial reporting processes and risks
Familiarity with audit methodologies and working papers
Exposure to data analytics tools (advantageous)
Behavioural Competencies
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Attention to detail and high quality of work
Effective communication and stakeholder management
Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
Professional integrity and ethical conduct
Qualifications
Degree in Information Systems, IT, Computer Science, Accounting, or related field
Relevant certifications advantageous (e.g., CISA, CIA, CA(SA))
Experience in IT audit, external audit, or risk advisory
Experience
2-4 years' experience in Internal Audit, IT Audit, Risk Advisory, or related assurance roles.
Prior exposure to Financial Services clients (e.g. banking, insurance, asset management) is strongly advantageous.
Experience working within structured audit engagements or advisory projects.
Technical Knowledge & Frameworks
Foundational understanding of IT external audit methodologies and risk-based auditing.
Working knowledge of IT risk management, IT governance, and internal control concepts.
Familiarity with frameworks such as COBIT, ITIL, and ISO 27001 is advantageous.
Core Competencies
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Clear verbal and written communication
Ability to plan, organise, and execute audit work effectively
Client-focused and professional in stakeholder interactions
Willingness to learn and adapt in a fastÃÂâÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂpaced advisory environment
Emotional intelligence and strong teamwork capabilities
Commitment to continuous professional development