Head of Internal Audit

About the role

Our client, a leading financial services organization, is seeking an experienced Head of Internal Audit to lead its independent internal audit function. The role provides assurance to the Board and Executive Management on governance, risk management, and internal controls across the enterprise.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute an annual risk‑based internal audit plan.
• Evaluate and enhance governance, risk management, and control processes.
• Conduct enterprise‑wide risk assessments and recommend improvements to operational effectiveness.
• Provide independent assurance over strategic transformation projects, digital banking initiatives, technology modernization, and emerging financial services.
• Assess operational resilience, business continuity, cyber resilience, and outsourcing frameworks.
• Oversee technology audits covering cybersecurity, cloud services, data governance, change management, and IT controls.
• Present findings and recommendations to senior leadership, Board committees, regulators, and other stakeholders.
• Liaise with external auditors, compliance, and risk management functions.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the internal audit team while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

Required profile

• Degree in Business, Accounting, or related discipline.
• Professional accounting designation (CPA, CA, ACA, ACCA) and preferably CIA.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in banking or financial services, including senior‑level internal audit, financial audit, controls, or risk management.
• Proven experience presenting to Boards, Audit Committees, and regulators.
• Experience auditing technology‑enabled financial services environments, digital banking platforms, payment systems, fintech or digital asset services.
• Strong analytical, communication, stakeholder management, and leadership abilities.

Required skills

• Cybersecurity
• Cloud services
• Data governance
• IT controls