Director of Internal Audit

JOB PURPOSE:

The Director supports the Group Chief Internal Audit in providing independent, objective assurance and advisory services to the Board, Audit & Risk Committee (ARC), and Executive Management. Plays a critical leadership role in strengthening financial discipline and safeguarding shareholder value.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Strategic Leadership

• Lead development and execution of risk-based audit plans for group companies business and operations including:
• Group financial reporting
• Investment governance and capital deployment
• M&A due diligence and post-acquisition integration
• Treasury, funding, and liquidity oversight
• Serve as an independent advisor to the GCIA and executive management on internal control, governance, and operational risk matters.
• Keep abreast of logistics sector trends, regulatory changes, and supply chain risks, adjusting audit priorities accordingly.

Internal Audit Operations

• Lead audits across Group entities, including ports & Freezones, shipping operations, logistics hubs, warehouses, and transportation networks.
• Evaluate operational efficiencies, contract management practices, third-party vendor management, customs compliance, freight handling, and supply chain risks.

Risk Management and Assurance

• Assess the adequacy and effectiveness of enterprise risk management frameworks, particularly those related to supply chain continuity, cyber threats to logistics platforms, and regulatory compliance (e.g., trade compliance, customs regulations).
• Provide early warning signals to management regarding emerging risks in logistics operations, technology (e.g., port automation, fleet management systems), and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) obligations.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Liaise with senior management and process owners to discuss audit findings, root causes, and corrective actions.
• Support the VP in reporting to the Audit Committee, including preparing executive summaries and dashboards.

Team Leadership:

• Manage and mentor audit staff to ensure effective performance and continuous professional development.
• Foster a culture of integrity, objectivity, and continuous improvement within the audit team.
• Lead cross-functional audit assignments and special reviews, including fraud investigations if needed.

Technology & Innovation:

• Promote the use of audit analytics and automation tools to enhance audit effectiveness and efficiency.
• Stay up-to-date with emerging risks, technologies, and industry trends to keep audit practices relevant.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Professional certification such as CIA, CPA, CA, or ACCA is required.
• Minimum 8 years of progressive audit experience, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership role. Big 4 experience is preferrable.
• Strong knowledge of internal control frameworks (e.g., COSO), risk management, and corporate governance.
• Industry-specific knowledge, e.g., logistics, transport, or port operations is a plus.
• Knowledge of technology audits, cyber security, ERP systems and audit management software.

Note: We thank all applicants for their interest, however only those candidates who are shortlisted will be contacted