Head of Audit

Our client, a leading organization in the financial services sector, is seeking a high-caliber Head of Internal Audit . This executive role is responsible for driving the full audit cycle to ensure operational effectiveness, financial reliability, and total compliance with global mandates and regulatory frameworks. Reporting directly to the Audit Committee, the successful candidate will provide independent, objective assurance designed to add value and improve the organization's operations.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Governance & Leadership

• Independence & Objectivity: Provide the necessary leadership to maintain the internal audit unit’s independence and objectivity, ensuring a neutral and unbiased perspective on organizational health.
• Audit Committee Accountability: Act as the primary point of accountability to the Audit Committee on all matters related to the performance of the Internal Audit Charter.
• Risk-Based Planning: Develop and execute a comprehensive annual audit plan based on robust risk assessments, integrating inputs from senior management and the Board of Directors.
• Reporting & Presentation: Prepare and present detailed reports to the Audit Committee regarding accomplishment status, critical findings, and the compliance standing of various business units.

Standards & Compliance

• Audit Excellence: Ensure the internal audit function consistently adheres to international standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing and relevant codes of ethics.
• Regulatory Alignment: Guarantee that all audit activities comprehensively cover regulatory matters and comply with supplemental standards imposed by relevant governing authorities (e.g., AMLA).
• Policy Oversight: Serve as the authority on mandates, directives, and regulations impacting the business, ensuring the organization remains ahead of shifting compliance landscapes.

Operational Management & Talent Development

• Resource Optimization: Ensure the internal audit function is staffed with a high-performing team possessing the qualifications and technical skills necessary to deliver the department's mandate.
• People Leadership: Lead and motivate a cross-functional team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, professional development, and rigorous attention to detail.
• Stakeholder Management: Work collaboratively with senior leadership while maintaining the boundary required to perform "self-starter" assessments of organizational issues.

Requirements

Education & Certification

• Academic Background: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline.
• Professional Credentials: Must possess both CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) and CPA (Certified Public Accountant) certifications.

Experience & Expertise

• Professional Tenure: Minimum of 7+ years of experience in auditing or systems audit, ideally within a financial institution or a premier public accounting firm.
• Industry Knowledge: Deep familiarity with the financial services industry and expert knowledge of Anti-Money Laundering (AMLA) regulations.
• Leadership Track Record: Significant experience in managing people and leading specialized teams through complex audit cycles.

Core Competencies

• Analytical Prowess: Highly numerate with strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating risks.
• Communication: Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey sensitive findings to executive-level stakeholders.
• Resilience: Proven ability to deliver high-quality results under pressure and thrive within a dynamic, fast-paced corporate environment.