Head of Internal Audit

Role: Head of Internal Audit

Location : Dubai, UAE

Job Summary:

The Head of Internal Audit is a key assurance and consulting professional responsible for supporting organizational objectives through a systematic and disciplined approach to risk management, internal controls, and governance. Leading the internal audit department, this role provides valuable insights and recommendations to Executive Management, the Board, and the Audit Committee, ensuring robust internal control systems and effective oversight of the Group and its subsidiaries.

Functional Responsibilities

Internal Audit:

• Maintain and uphold the internal audit charter.
• Develop and execute a risk-based annual audit plan, including periodic updates for Audit Committee approval.
• Lead the implementation of the approved audit plan, addressing special projects requested by management or the Audit Committee.
• Ensure the internal audit team is adequately staffed and resourced, hiring qualified personnel and providing necessary training.
• Evaluate new or changing services, processes, and control systems during development and implementation phases.
• Supervise the delivery of company's risk-based audit plan, ensuring timely and high-quality execution.
• Provide independent assessments on governance, risk, and control environments.
• Deliver comprehensive audit results and periodic reports to executive management and the Audit & Risk Committee.
• Promote internal audit best practices, continuous improvement, and adherence to international standards.
• Maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, fostering collaboration and alignment on audit expectations.
• Lead the development and enhancement of audit methodologies, tools, and frameworks.
• Oversee audits of subsidiaries and ensure findings are addressed and implemented.
• Ensure optimal coordination between internal and external audit efforts to achieve effective coverage.
• Conduct and oversee investigations into significant fraudulent activities, reporting results to relevant stakeholders.
• Monitor the implementation of recommendations from internal and external audits to mitigate risks effectively.

Fraud Investigations:

• Oversee the Fraud Investigations Unit, aligning its strategies with corporate objectives.
• Enhance fraud detection and prevention measures, ensuring robust investigative capabilities.
• Provide expert guidance on complex investigations and maintain high-quality fraud risk reporting.
• Recommend actionable solutions to address fraud risks identified within the organization.

People Management:

• Collaborate with HR to plan and allocate departmental resources effectively.
• Foster a culture of continuous learning and development within the internal audit team.
• Set goals and KPIs for direct reports, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives.
• Promote an inclusive and performance-driven team environment.

Quality & Compliance:

• Ensure adherence to Health, Safety, and Environmental policies, maintaining compliance with desired standards.
• Establish and monitor internal controls to uphold regulatory and compliance requirements.
• Advocate for a compliance-focused culture across the organization.

Job Prerequisites

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualifications.
• Proficiency in English and/or Arabic.
• Extensive experience in internal audit, risk management, and fraud investigations.
• Advanced problem-solving and analytical skills with a forward-looking approach to internal audit practices.

Certifications:

• CISA, CIA, CRMA, CMA, or CPA (preferred).

Experience:

• 1015 years of relevant experience in internal audit or a similar field.

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in internal audit management and delivery.
• Expertise in governance, risk, and control frameworks.
• Familiarity with data analytics, technology audits, and cybersecurity.
• Knowledge of continuous monitoring techniques and innovative solutions.

Behavioral Competencies:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Leadership and teamwork capabilities.
• High ethical standards and accountability.
• Ability to navigate ambiguity and drive results.
• Innovation and forward-thinking mindset.

Leadership Competencies:

• Strategic thinking and business acumen.
• Change management expertise.
• Customer-centric approach.
• Engaging and results-driven leadership.
• Critical and innovative thinking.