Audit Head

Location: Metro Manila, Philippines
Work Setup: On-site
Employment Type: Full-time

Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced Audit Head to lead the organization's internal audit function, enterprise risk assessment, and corporate governance initiatives. This role is responsible for providing independent assurance to the Board and management, developing risk-based audit strategies, and ensuring that appropriate internal controls are established and maintained across business operations. The successful candidate will oversee financial, operational, IT, and compliance audits, drive the timely resolution of audit findings, and build a strong and independent internal audit team.

Key Responsibilities

Audit Committee & Corporate Governance

• Lead the internal audit function and provide independent assurance on the effectiveness of governance, risk management, and internal control processes.
• Coordinate with the Board of Directors and Audit Committee on audit matters, significant findings, and emerging business risks.
• Prepare and present quarterly audit reports, highlighting key findings, risk exposures, and recommended corrective actions.
• Ensure alignment with corporate governance standards, internal audit policies, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Maintain independence and objectivity in conducting internal audit activities.

Enterprise Risk Assessment & Audit Planning

• Lead enterprise-wide risk assessments to identify and evaluate financial, operational, compliance, and strategic risks.
• Develop and implement an annual risk-based internal audit plan aligned with organizational priorities.
• Prioritize audit activities based on risk exposure, business impact, and control effectiveness.
• Periodically review and update the audit plan to address emerging risks and changing business requirements.
• Recommend improvements to risk management frameworks and internal control systems.

Risk-Based Internal Audit & Assurance

• Oversee the execution of risk-based audits across business units, corporate functions, and operating locations.
• Lead financial, operational, IT, and regulatory compliance audits to assess the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls.
• Evaluate business processes, identify control weaknesses, and recommend practical solutions to address operational and financial risks.
• Conduct store and site audits to ensure adherence to company policies, procedures, and operational standards.
• Ensure audit engagements are completed in accordance with established methodologies and professional standards.

Audit Findings & Remediation

• Communicate audit findings and recommendations to relevant stakeholders and management.
• Establish monitoring mechanisms to track corrective action plans and ensure timely resolution of audit issues.
• Work closely with department heads and process owners to address identified control gaps and prevent recurring findings.
• Escalate overdue remediation activities and significant unresolved risks to senior management and the Audit Committee.
• Monitor the effectiveness of implemented corrective actions and report on remediation progress.

Internal Audit Team Leadership

• Build, lead, and develop a competent and independent internal audit team.
• Establish audit methodologies, guidelines, and performance standards to ensure consistent audit execution.
• Provide coaching and professional development opportunities to strengthen the team's technical and analytical capabilities.
• Promote professional skepticism, accountability, integrity, and objectivity within the audit function.
• Ensure adequate resource allocation and effective execution of the annual audit plan.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accountancy, Finance, Internal Auditing, or a related field.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is highly preferred. CIA, CISA, or other relevant professional certifications are an advantage.
• At least 10–15 years of relevant experience in internal audit, risk management, or corporate governance, with significant leadership experience.
• Proven experience leading an internal audit function and managing enterprise-wide risk assessments.
• Experience working directly with a Board of Directors or Board Audit Committee, including quarterly audit reporting.
• Strong background in financial, operational, IT, and compliance auditing.
• Demonstrated experience developing and executing risk-based annual audit plans.
• Experience overseeing audits across multiple business units, stores, branches, or operating locations.
• Proven ability to manage audit findings, monitor remediation plans, and engage senior stakeholders.
• Strong leadership, analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• High level of integrity, independence, professional skepticism, and sound business judgment.
• Experience in large-scale retail, restaurant, FMCG, or multi-site organizations is highly preferred.