Head of Internal Audit - Insurance

Job Description Head of Internal Audit - Insurance

Position: Head of Internal Audit

Department: Internal Audit

Location: Head Office

Reports to: Audit Committee (Board Level)

Contract Type: Full-Time

Supervises: Internal Audit Team

Role Purpose

We are seeking a highly experienced Head of Internal Audit to lead and strengthen our internal audit function. The ideal candidate will be responsible for providing independent, objective assurance and advisory services designed to add value and improve operations. You will play a pivotal role in ensuring effective governance, risk management, and compliance while driving process improvements that support long-term organizational success.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Planning

• Develop and execute the internal audit strategy in alignment with organizational objectives and risk framework.
• Prepare and implement annual audit plans, focusing on high-risk areas and stakeholder expectations.

2. Audit Execution

• Lead risk-based internal audits to assess operational efficiency, compliance, and control effectiveness.
• Identify control gaps, inefficiencies, and propose actionable recommendations.
• Ensure clear documentation of audit evidence, findings, and recommendations.

3. Risk Assessment & Management

• Conduct internal auditled risk assessments to prioritize organizational risks.
• Provide independent insights on risk exposure and recommend enhancements to management practices.

4. Compliance & Regulatory Oversight

• Ensure alignment with all relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards.
• Monitor regulatory changes and integrate them into audit practices.
• Collaborate with external auditors and regulators during examinations.

5. Reporting & Communication

• Deliver comprehensive audit reports with clear recommendations to senior leadership and the Audit Committee.
• Present findings and updates in an accessible and actionable manner.
• Act as a trusted advisor on internal control and governance issues.

6. Team Leadership & Development

• Build, mentor, and inspire a high-performing internal audit team.
• Assign audit responsibilities, review work, and provide constructive feedback.
• Foster a culture of continuous learning, collaboration, and improvement.

7. Alignment with IIA Standards

• Establish and maintain an Internal Audit Charter in line with IIA Standards.
• Uphold independence and objectivity across all audit activities.
• Implement a Quality Assurance & Improvement Program (QAIP) to continuously enhance audit effectiveness.
• Promote staff professional development through training and certification.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelors degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Professional certifications such as CIA, CPA, ACCA, or equivalent are strongly preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in internal audit, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Solid understanding of internal audit standards, risk management, and regulatory frameworks.
• Strong analytical skills with proven ability to assess complex systems and processes.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills for engaging stakeholders at all levels.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities, including mentoring and driving organizational change.
• Proficiency in audit management software and related tools.
• High ethical standards, integrity, and discretion in handling sensitive information.

Working Conditions

• Location: Office-based
• Working Hours: 8:00 AM 4:00 PM
• Working Days: Sunday to Thursday