Group Senior Internal Auditor

The Senior Internal Auditor is responsible for leading and executing assigned internal audit engagements from planning through to reporting. This includes conducting risk-based audits, evaluating internal controls and business processes, identifying areas for improvement, and delivering high-quality audit reports with value-adding, consultative recommendations. The role also contributes to the continuous enhancement of the Group’s risk assessment process and supports governance, compliance, and operational excellence across the Group.

• Lead and participate in the annual risk assessment exercise for the Group, including gathering risk intelligence from audits, management interviews, and emerging risk factors.

• Ensure quarterly updates to the risk assessment reflect changes in the operating environment, business priorities, and risk profiles.

• Participate in the implementation of the Annual Internal Audit Plan by executing assigned audit projects in line with approved timelines and methodology.

• Schedule and facilitate Kick-off, Status Update, Exit, and Close-out Meetings with Operating Companies and auditees.

• Develop and submit Preliminary Information Request Lists (IRLs) to auditees following the Kick-off meeting.

• Escalate foreseeable delays in receiving requested information to the Group Head of Internal Audit.

• Prepare and/or update Business Understanding documentation, including updates to existing Process Risk Registers.

• Develop Risk and Control Matrices (RACMs), audit programs, and Sampling Memos for review and approval.

• Execute testing procedures in accordance with the approved RACMs and audit programs, ensuring timely and accurate completion.

• Identify control operating deficiencies or design weaknesses and develop pragmatic, risk-based recommendations.

• Participate in audit meetings to discuss findings and seek guidance from the Group Head of Internal Audit as needed.

• Engage directly with process owners and relevant stakeholders to obtain insights into business operations and validate understanding.

• Manage and direct assigned audit engagements, ensuring appropriate documentation and reporting to the Group Head of Internal Audit.

• Conduct detailed fact-gathering and analysis in a thorough, well-organized, and methodical manner.

• Ensure the audit engagement is executed as designed, and address auditee concerns promptly and professionally.

• Prepare high-quality draft audit reports and recommendations, reflecting findings and root causes with clarity.

• Review management responses, engage in discussion for clarity or further action, and update final reports accordingly with guidance from the Group Head of Internal Audit.

• Ensure audits are completed within the approved budget and timelines and proactively escalate any anticipated delays or scope changes.

• Support the timely issuance of draft and final reports to the Group Head of Internal Audit and contribute to preparation for Audit Committee reporting.

• Assist in the development of quarterly Board Audit Committee presentations, including audit summaries, key findings, and status of recommendations.

• Monitor the implementation status of internal audit recommendations and report on progress quarterly to the Group Head of Internal Audit.

• Build and maintain effective relationships with senior management and stakeholders across Operating Companies.

• Independently conduct routine stock counts at various locations in the UAE, ensuring integrity of physical inventory records.

• Perform ad-hoc reviews, special assignments, consultancy projects, or targeted compliance reviews as directed.

• Carry out other related duties as assigned by the Group Head of Internal Audit.

• Leverage AI and advanced analytics tools to enhance audit procedures, including random sampling, anomaly detection, and predictive analysis.

• Apply AI-driven techniques to strengthen control design and operating effectiveness.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (required).

• Chartered Accountant (CA) qualification.

• Minimum of 5 years of total professional experience, with at least 3 years in executing internal audits and providing internal control advisory services.

• Proven track record in conducting risk-based audits across various business functions or industries.

• Experience in preparing audit programs, performing control testing, and drafting audit reports with actionable recommendations.

• Prior exposure to audit methodologies, internal control frameworks (e.g., COSO), and risk assessment processes.

• Experience in working independently and as part of a team within a structured audit environment.

• Exposure to ERP systems, data analytics, or audit management software is an advantage.