Description
PURPOSE OF THE ROLE: The Senior Director – Internal Audit is responsible for leading and overseeing the Group's Internal Audit function across all business units, subsidiaries, and corporate functions. The role provides independent and objective assurance on the adequacy and effectiveness of governance, risk management, internal controls, compliance, operational efficiency, and financial reporting processes.The Senior Director will develop and execute a risk-based audit strategy, identify emerging risks, assess the effectiveness of internal controls, and provide actionable recommendations to strengthen business performance, safeguard organizational assets, and enhance operational excellence. The role requires extensive experience in internal audit leadership, enterprise risk management, governance frameworks, procurement controls, project management, contract administration, and real estate development activities.PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: Internal Audit Strategy & LeadershipDevelop, implement, and continuously enhance the Group Internal Audit Strategy in alignment with organizational objectives and risk appetite. Lead the preparation of the annual risk-based audit plan for approval by senior management and the Audit Committee. Establish audit methodologies, policies, procedures, and reporting standards in accordance with International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) and industry best practices. Provide independent assurance on the effectiveness of governance, risk management, and internal control systems throughout the Group. Lead and manage internal audit resources, including audit managers, auditors, and external consultants. Build a high-performing internal audit function through coaching, mentoring, succession planning, and professional development initiatives. Promote a culture of accountability, ethics, integrity, and continuous improvement across the organization. Risk Management & GovernanceEvaluate the effectiveness of enterprise risk management frameworks and risk mitigation strategies. Identify key business, operational, financial, regulatory, strategic, and project-related risks across the Group. Assess the adequacy of risk management processes and recommend improvements to strengthen control environments. Review governance structures and decision-making processes to ensure alignment with corporate objectives and regulatory requirements. Provide insights on emerging business risks, market developments, and regulatory changes impacting the organization. Operational AuditsLead operational audits across all business functions including: Evaluate efficiency, effectiveness, and productivity of business processes. Identify opportunities for process optimization, cost reduction, revenue enhancement, and operational improvements. Assess project governance controls, contractor management practices, and capital expenditure controls. Review business performance against established policies, procedures, and operational standards. Financial & Compliance AuditsOversee audits of financial processes, accounting controls, treasury functions, budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. Review compliance with IFRS, corporate policies, delegated authority matrices, and financial governance frameworks. Assess adequacy of financial controls to ensure accuracy, completeness, and reliability of financial reporting. Lead compliance reviews covering local regulatory requirements, corporate governance standards, and relevant industry regulations. Monitor regulatory developments and evaluate their impact on Group operations. Procurement, Contracts & Real Estate Development AuditsPerform audits related to procurement lifecycle processes including sourcing, tendering, vendor management, contract awards, and payment controls. Review contract management practices to ensure contractual obligations are effectively managed and risks are mitigated. Assess developer, contractor, consultant, and supplier compliance with contractual terms. Audit project planning, budgeting, cost controls, variation management, claims management, and project execution processes. Evaluate governance and controls over major capital investment and development projects. Identify potential financial leakages, procurement inefficiencies, and contract risks. Investigations & Special ReviewsLead internal investigations involving fraud, misconduct, conflicts of interest, policy violations, or unethical practices. Conduct forensic reviews where necessary and coordinate with legal, compliance, and external advisors. Present investigation findings and recommendations to senior leadership. Support management in implementing corrective and preventive actions. Maintain strict confidentiality and integrity throughout all investigations. Audit Reporting & Stakeholder ManagementPrepare and present comprehensive audit reports to Executive Management, GCFO, Audit Committee, and Board members. Ensure audit findings are clearly documented, risk-rated, and supported by practical recommendations. Monitor and report progress of management action plans and remediation activities. Establish effective relationships with senior stakeholders across all business units. Serve as a trusted advisor to leadership on internal controls, governance, risk, and compliance matters. Provide periodic reporting on audit activities, key risks, control deficiencies, and remediation status. Technology & Data AnalyticsPromote the use of audit automation, data analytics, and technology-enabled auditing methodologies. Review IT governance, cybersecurity controls, ERP systems, access controls, and data management practices. Leverage analytics tools to identify trends, anomalies, and risk indicators. Drive continuous auditing and monitoring initiatives across critical business processes. QUALIFICATION Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field; professional certifications (CIA, CISA, CA, ACCA, CFE) preferred. Master's degree preferred. Experience 18+ years of progressive Internal Audit experience, including at least 7 years in a senior leadership role. Extensive experience managing enterprise-wide audit functions within large and complex organizations. Strong experience in real estate development, construction, infrastructure, property management, or diversified group environments. Proven experience auditing procurement, contract management, commercial operations, project delivery, and capital expenditure projects. Strong knowledge of enterprise risk management, corporate governance, compliance frameworks, and internal control systems. Experience presenting to Audit Committees, Executive Leadership Teams, and Board members. Experience leading fraud investigations and conducting special audit reviews. Exposure to ERP environments such as SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, or similar enterprise systems. Experience in implementing data analytics within internal audit functions is highly preferred. Skills Expert knowledge of internal auditing standards, methodologies, and best practices. Strong understanding of COSO Internal Control Framework and Risk Management principles. Advanced financial analysis and audit testing capabilities. Strong knowledge of procurement, contract, and project management controls. Understanding of IFRS and financial reporting requirements. Proficiency in ERP systems and audit analytics tools. Advanced Microsoft Office skills, particularly Excel, PowerPoint, and Power BI.