Head of Internal Audit

Location Dubai
Discipline: Commodities
Job type: Permanent
Contact name: Freddie Ricks

Contact email: freddie.ricks@venturesearch.com
Job ref: 1796
Published: about 1 year ago

Our client is a leading player in the energy sector, with a global presence and a diverse portfolio of subsidiaries specializing in various aspects of the oil and gas industry. We are committed to operational excellence, innovation, and sustainable practices that drive our continued success.

Position Overview: We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Head of Internal Audit to lead our internal audit function across multiple subsidiaries within the company. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in ensuring compliance, identifying operational efficiencies, and managing risks within the organization.

Key Responsibilities:

  1. Develop and Implement Audit Strategy:

    • Create and execute a comprehensive audit strategy aligned with the company's overall business objectives and industry best practices.
    • Establish audit plans, methodologies, and risk assessment frameworks tailored to the unique needs of each subsidiary.
  2. Leadership and Team Management:

    • Lead, mentor, and develop a team of internal auditors across various locations, ensuring high performance and professional growth.
    • Provide guidance on audit assignments, and oversee the execution of audits to ensure accuracy, completeness, and adherence to deadlines.
  3. Stakeholder Engagement:

    • Foster strong relationships with key stakeholders, including senior management, subsidiary leaders, and external auditors.
    • Communicate audit findings, recommendations, and action plans to stakeholders in a clear, concise, and persuasive manner.
  4. Risk Management and Compliance:

    • Identify, assess, and mitigate risks associated with the operations of multiple subsidiaries.
    • Ensure compliance with industry regulations, company policies, and relevant statutory requirements.
  5. Process Improvement and Efficiency:

    • Continuously evaluate and enhance internal audit processes and methodologies to drive efficiency and effectiveness.
    • Recommend improvements to internal controls, policies, and procedures.
  6. Reporting and Documentation:

    • Prepare comprehensive audit reports, highlighting findings, recommendations, and action plans.
    • Maintain accurate and organized audit documentation for reference and regulatory compliance.
  7. Continuous Professional Development:

    • Stay abreast of emerging trends, best practices, and regulatory changes in the internal audit field.
    • Encourage a culture of continuous learning and professional development within the audit team.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. A relevant professional certification (e.g., CIA, CISA, CPA) is highly preferred.
  • Progressive experience in internal audit, including in a managerial or leadership role within a complex, multinational organization.
  • Extensive knowledge of the oil and gas industry, including an understanding of the unique risks and challenges faced by subsidiaries in this sector.
  • Proven ability to develop and execute audit strategies, manage a diverse team, and communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels.