Head of Audit

Head of Audit

Location: United Arab Emirates

We are seeking an accomplished Head of Audit to lead the Internal Audit function for a Financial Institution in the UAE. This senior leadership role is responsible for providing independent assurance on governance, risk management, and internal controls across the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee Internal Audit in line with CBUAE regulations, international standards (IIA), and best practices.
• Develop and execute a risk based audit plan.
• Provide independent and objective assurance to the Board Audit Committee and Senior Management.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of governance frameworks, internal controls, and risk management processes.
• Oversee regulatory audits and manage relationships with regulators and external auditors.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high performing audit team.
• Identify emerging risks, including cyber risk, AML/CFT, and operational resilience.
• Ensure timely reporting of audit findings and follow up on remediation actions.

Key Requirements

• 10+ years of experience in internal audit within the Finance sector, with significant experience in the UAE.
• Proven experience in a senior audit leadership role (Head of Audit / Senior Audit Manager).
• Strong knowledge of CBUAE regulations, laws, and regulatory expectations in the UAE.
• Professional certifications such as CIA, CA, CPA, ACCA or equivalent are highly preferred.
• Strong leadership, stakeholder management, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to operate at Board and Executive Management level.

Seniority Level

Director

Employment Type

Full time

Job Function

Accounting/Auditing

Industries

Banking