Group Senior Internal Auditor

Ghobash Group; Dubai; On-site; AED 180,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

Ghobash Group in Dubai seeks an experienced Audit Manager to lead risk assessments and manage audit engagements. The role requires a strong background in auditing, risk assessment, and internal controls.

The successful candidate will have at least 5 years of professional experience, with a focus on conducting audits and providing actionable recommendations. Competence in data analytics and familiarity with ERP systems will be advantageous.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of total professional experience, 3 years in internal audits.
• Proven track record in conducting risk-based audits.
• Experience in audit methodologies and internal control frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Lead risk assessment and audit projects.
• Prepare high-quality draft audit reports and recommendations.
• Monitor implementation of internal audit recommendations.

Skills

Risk assessment

Control testing

Audit methodologies

Data analytics

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field

Tools

ERP systems

Audit management software

Job description

Job Description

• Lead and participate in the annual risk assessment exercise for the Group, including gathering risk intelligence from audits, management interviews, and emerging risk factors.
• Ensure quarterly updates to the risk assessment reflect changes in the operating environment, business priorities, and risk profiles.
• Participate in the implementation of the Annual Internal Audit Plan by executing assigned audit projects in line with approved timelines and methodology.
• Schedule and facilitate Kick-off, Status Update, Exit, and Close-out Meetings with Operating Companies and auditees.
• Develop and submit Preliminary Information Request Lists (IRLs) to auditees following the Kick-off meeting.
• Escalate foreseeable delays in receiving requested information to the Group Head of Internal Audit.
• Prepare and/or update Business Understanding documentation, including updates to existing Process Risk Registers.
• Develop Risk and Control Matrices (RACMs), audit programs, and Sampling Memos for review and approval.
• Execute testing procedures in accordance with the approved RACMs and audit programs, ensuring timely and accurate completion.
• Identify control operating deficiencies or design weaknesses and develop pragmatic, risk-based recommendations.
• Participate in audit meetings to discuss findings and seek guidance from the Group Head of Internal Audit as needed.
• Engage directly with process owners and relevant stakeholders to obtain insights into business operations and validate understanding.
• Manage and direct assigned audit engagements, ensuring appropriate documentation and reporting to the Group Head of Internal Audit.
• Conduct detailed fact-gathering and analysis in a thorough, well-organized, and methodical manner.
• Ensure the audit engagement is executed as designed, and address auditee concerns promptly and professionally.
• Prepare high-quality draft audit reports and recommendations, reflecting findings and root causes with clarity.
• Review management responses, engage in discussion for clarity or further action, and update final reports accordingly with guidance from the Group Head of Internal Audit.
• Ensure audits are completed within the approved budget and timelines and proactively escalate any anticipated delays or scope changes.
• Support the timely issuance of draft and final reports to the Group Head of Internal Audit and contribute to preparation for Audit Committee reporting.
• Assist in the development of quarterly Board Audit Committee presentations, including audit summaries, key findings, and status of recommendations.
• Monitor the implementation status of internal audit recommendations and report on progress quarterly to the Group Head of Internal Audit.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with senior management and stakeholders across Operating Companies.
• Independently conduct routine stock counts at various locations in the UAE, ensuring integrity of physical inventory records.
• Perform ad-hoc reviews, special assignments, consultancy projects, or targeted compliance reviews as directed.
• Carry out other related duties as assigned by the Group Head of Internal Audit.
• Leverage AI and advanced analytics tools to enhance audit procedures, including random sampling, anomaly detection, and predictive analysis.
• Apply AI-driven techniques to strengthen control design and operating effectiveness.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (required).
• Minimum of 5 years of total professional experience, with at least 3 years in executing internal audits and providing internal control advisory services.
• Proven track record in conducting risk-based audits across various business functions or industries.
• Experience in preparing audit programs, performing control testing, and drafting audit reports with actionable recommendations.
• Prior exposure to audit methodologies, internal control frameworks (e.g., COSO), and risk assessment processes.
• Experience in working independently and as part of a team within a structured audit environment.
• Exposure to ERP systems, data analytics, or audit management software is an advantage.