Associate Director - Internal Audit (Telecom Sector)

Associate Director (Internal Audit)- IAFA Telecom

We are seeking a skilled and experienced Associate Director – Internal Audit (Technology & Network Audit) to join our Internal Audit function within a leading telecom operator. This role focuses on auditing core telecom technology operations including IT infrastructure, network security, data centers, OSS/BSS systems, and cyber risk – ensuring robust controls and compliance across all technology domains.

The ideal candidate will have a solid background in internal audit combined with strong expertise in telecom network architecture, IT controls, cyber security, and regulatory frameworks relevant to the telecom industry.

Role Requirements

Technology & Network Audit

• Lead end-to-end audits of IT systems, telecom infrastructure (Core, RAN, Transmission), data centers, and cloud environments.
• Evaluate risks and controls over OSS/BSS platforms, network provisioning, customer data integrity, and service assurance.
• Perform audits of information and cyber security functions, identity and access management, and data privacy compliance.
• Assess business continuity, disaster recovery, and technology resilience across critical systems.
• Review change management, IT governance, SLA performance, and vendor risk related to technology functions.

Internal Audit Program Management

• Participate in annual risk assessments and assist in developing the technology/network audit plan.
• Execute fieldwork, prepare high-quality working papers, and deliver clear, concise, and impactful audit reports.
• Identify control weaknesses, root causes, and actionable recommendations to improve technology controls.
• Follow up on remediation actions with stakeholders and ensure timely resolution of audit findings.
• Work closely with business auditors on integrated audits, providing expertise in technology and network domains.
• Communicate audit results and insights to senior management and key stakeholders in IT, Network, and Cybersecurity.
• Collaborate with IT, Network Engineering, Information Security, Regulatory Compliance, and Risk functions.
• Stay current with emerging technologies (5G, IoT, cloud), evolving risks, and telecom industry regulatory developments

Desired Profile

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, technology or the equivalent combination of Education, training, and work experience.
• CA, MBA and prior Audit/Consulting experience with Big 4 or Strategy firms.
• One or more relevant professional certifications (i.e. CPA, CIA, CFE, CISA, CA, ACCA) Work experience in any of the following sectors: Telecom and technology.
• Overall 11+ years of relevant full time work experience in Consulting/Internal Auditing.
• Experience in leading consulting firms will be an added advantage.
• Fluent in English (reading, speaking, and writing). Preference will be given to Bilingual Arabic candidates (Arabic/English).

Core Skills Required

• Ability to observe and understand business processes ensuring processes are documented completely and accurately
• Ability to apply audit standards through practical application
• Proactive in researching business best practice concepts in order to apply as appropriate
• Solid listening skills and ability to identify gaps in logic – inquisitive
• Strong organization and follow up skills including the ability to handle competing priorities and meet all deadlines and commitments
• Possess an appropriate combination of technical expertise in fields such as auditing, finance, technology, operations, or investigations
• Ability to flourish in a fast-paced, complex environment and willing to adapt to change
• Demonstrated ability to lead a small team and ensure successful results
• Ability to give and follow instructions accurately and efficiently; proactive in asking clarifying questions to ensure work effort is directed wholly toward desired outcome
• Ability to recognize when learned theoretical concepts should be applied
• Solid understanding and ability to apply risk and control concepts
• Ability to identify underlying cause of an issue raised
• Good awareness of other departments in the company with risk, control, and governance responsibilities and what is necessary for successful tactical collaboration and information sharing
• Good communication skills along with good or developing negotiation skills
• Ability to identify sensitive issues and facilitate communications in a proactive manner to avoid surprises
• Willingness and ability to adapt to new circumstances, information, and challenges
• Executes effective and thorough application of all internal audit standards within assigned responsibility
• Ability and willingness to travel domestically and internationally

Key Personal Attributes

• A good blend of creative thinking and rigorous analysis in solving business problems.
• High energy individual possessing excellent analytical, interpersonal, communication and presentation skills. Adept at preparing and presenting to senior audiences.
• Demonstrates excellent leadership and interpersonal skills. Must be able to maintain a professional demeanor in times of high stress.
• Excellent time management skills. Must have ability to multi-task.
• Regular reading habit for updating himself/herself and exhibit high level of confidentiality.
• Enjoys travelling and meeting new people. Flexibility to travel to, and work in, other locations is essential.

Location: Riyadh, KSA

About Us

Protiviti delivers deep expertise, objective insights, a tailored approach and unparalleled collaboration to help leaders face the future with confidence. Our consulting solutions span critical business problems in technology, business process, analytics, risk, compliance, transactions and internal audit. We are committed to attracting and developing a diverse workforce of professionals that share the common value of collaboration. As an organization, we believe that by teaming together, with each other, and our clients, we can see beyond the surface of changes and problems organizations face in this fast changing world to discover opportunities others might miss and face the future with greater confidence.

Our more than 4,500 people serve clients through the network of Protiviti and independently owned Member Firms in more than 70 offices in over 20 countries. We have served over 60% of FORTUNE 1000® companies and 35% of FORTUNE Global 500® companies. Our people and organization have consistently been recognized by FORTUNE and Consulting Magazine as a best company to work for. In the Middle East Region, Protiviti’s member firm is a leading provider of business consulting, internal audit, risk management, technology, forensic and fraud investigation, human capital and transaction services. Protiviti member firms are separate and independent legal entities, are not agents of other firms in the Protiviti network, and have no authority to obligate or bind other firms in the Protiviti network.