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
• Bachelors Degree
• Chartered Accountant
• Additional qualifications such as CIA, CISA is desired

Skills & Professional Requirements

• Strong knowledge of the risks and the adequacy of internal controls.
• Good knowledge of the audit risk assessment process and audit planning techniques.
• Very good communication and presentation skills.
• Highly analytical and assertive personality.
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
• Ability to execute the audit assignment with minimal supervision.
• Assumes responsibility.
• Attention to detail is imperative.
• Organisation and time-keeping.
• Positive attitude.
• Bilingual preferred.

Experience Requirements

• Minimum work experience of 5 years
• Atleast 3 years’ experience in executing internal audits, internal control advisory