Chief Internal Audit & Risk Leader

Bank of Palestine Global; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Bank of Palestine Global in Abu Dhabi is building a new digital bank and seeks an experienced Head of Internal Audit to establish and lead the function from the ground up, shaping risk-based practices from day one. This leadership role requires building a robust, independent Internal Audit framework while ensuring ADGM/FSRA regulatory alignment across banking operations, credit, treasury, and technology.

This position demands senior leadership, stakeholder management, and a deep understanding of

Qualifications

• 16+ years of Internal Audit experience in banking or financial services.
• Experience building or transforming Internal Audit functions in regulated institutions.
• CIA / CISA / ACCA / ACA / CPA or equivalent qualification.
• Experience engaging with Boards, Audit Committees, regulators and senior executives.
• Start-up or newly established bank experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Establish and lead an independent, risk-based Internal Audit framework.
• Develop IA Charter, methodology, policies and annual risk-based plan.
• Build audit universe, risk assessment, planning, fieldwork and follow-up processes.
• Provide independent assurance over governance, risk management and internal controls.
• Lead audits across banking ops, credit, treasury, finance, compliance, AML/CFT, tech, cyber, data, outsourcing and resilience.
• Assess design and effectiveness of key controls; identify gaps and remediation areas.
• Report findings to Governing Body / Audit Committee and Senior Management.
• Monitor remediation and escalate overdue issues; maintain independence.
• Engage with Risk, Compliance, Finance, Technology and other control functions.
• Ensure IA remains resourced and trained; promote accountability and continuous improvement.
• Maintain awareness of ADGM/FSRA regulatory requirements and evolve IA framework accordingly.
• Engage effectively with external auditors and regulators.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Risk management

Internal controls

Communication

Regulatory knowledge

Auditing

Education

CIA / CISA / ACCA / ACA / CPA

Job description

Bank of Palestine Global in Abu Dhabi is building a new digital bank and seeks an experienced Head of Internal Audit to establish and lead the function from the ground up, shaping risk-based practices from day one. This leadership role requires building a robust, independent Internal Audit framework while ensuring ADGM/FSRA regulatory alignment across banking operations, credit, treasury, and technology.

This position demands senior leadership, stakeholder management, and a deep understanding of