Key responsibilities
Strategic planning and execution: Develop the annual audit plan, determine audit objectives and scope, and manage the audit budget.
Risk management: Oversee risk management processes, identify key process risks, and evaluate the effectiveness of internal controls.
Audit fieldwork: Supervise the execution of audit engagements, review work papers, and ensure adherence to auditing standards.
Reporting and communication: Prepare and submit timely, quality audit reports, and communicate findings and recommendations to senior management and the board of directors.
Follow-up and improvement: Monitor and follow up on the implementation of audit recommendations to confirm that corrective actions are taken.
Team leadership: Lead, mentor, and develop the audit team, and oversee training and development programs.
Compliance and governance: Ensure the organization complies with laws, regulations, and internal policies. Act as a key point of contact for external auditors and the board's audit committee.
Qualification and Experience
Professional Experience
10+ Years of progressive audit experience, with at least 5 Years in a senior or managerial role (e.g., Audit Manager, Senior Internal Auditor, or Chief Audit Executive).
Proven experience in developing and implementing internal audit frameworks, policies, and risk-based audit plans.
Strong background in risk management, internal controls, governance, and compliance within complex organizations.
Hands-on experience in financial, operational, and IT audits, and in applying audit standards (IIA, IFRS, ISA, etc.).
Leadership & Strategy
Demonstrated success in leading and mentoring audit teams, promoting professional development and accountability.
Experience in advising senior management and audit committees on key risk exposures, control weaknesses, and process improvements.
Skilled in aligning the audit function with the organization's strategic objectives and enterprise risk framework.
Stakeholder & Communication Skills
Proven ability to build strong relationships with executive leadership, external auditors, and regulators.
Excellent report writing and presentation skills, with the ability to communicate complex issues clearly and persuasively.
Experience presenting audit findings and recommendations to boards or audit committees.
Technical Expertise
Proficiency in data analytics tools and audit management software (e.g., ACL, IDEA, Teammate, Power BI).
In-depth knowledge of financial reporting, governance standards, and regulatory compliance frameworks.
Strong understanding of fraud risk assessment, investigative techniques, and process improvement methodologies.
Industry Exposure (Optional - tailor as needed)
Experience in banking and microfinance environments.
Exposure to multinational operations or organizations with complex financial and operational structures.
Education
A bachelor's or master's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field.