Internal Audit Manager

GIG Gulf; Dubai; On-site; AED 250,000 - 450,000; Full time

Job summary

GIG Gulf in the United Arab Emirates seeks a Senior Internal Audit Manager to lead risk-based audit activities across its operations and support the Head of Internal Audit in delivering the Internal Audit Charter, Strategy and Annual Audit Plan. The role provides independent assurance over governance, risk management, internal controls and regulatory compliance.

The incumbent leads audit assignments from planning through reporting, performs risk assessments, contributes to the annual and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Auditing, Business Administration, Insurance, or related discipline.
• CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) or similar desirable.
• Experience in internal/audit/regulatory environments is essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute risk-based internal audit assignments across operational, financial, compliance, digital, information technology and governance processes.
• Manage all phases of audit engagements including planning, risk assessment, fieldwork, reporting and follow-up.
• Evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of governance, risk management and internal control processes.
• Identify control weaknesses, process inefficiencies, emerging risks and opportunities for operational improvement.
• Review audit workpapers and reports to ensure quality and compliance with methodologies.
• Maintain independence and professional skepticism while conducting audits.
• Support and coach other Internal Audit team members as required.

Skills

Leadership

Risk-based auditing

Communication

Stakeholder management

Regulatory liaison

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance/Auditing

Tools

Diligent

ITGC frameworks

Job description

The Senior Internal Audit Manager is responsible for leading and executing risk-based internal audit activities across GIG Gulf's operations and supporting the Head of Internal Audit in delivering the Internal Audit Charter, Strategy and Annual Audit Plan. The role provides independent assurance over the effectiveness of governance, risk management, internal controls and regulatory compliance processes.

The incumbent leads and manages audit assignments from planning through reporting and follow-up, performs risk assessments, contributes to the development of the annual and strategic audit plans, and identifies opportunities to strengthen the control environment. The role supports the continuous improvement of the Internal Audit function through adherence to the IIA Global Internal Audit Standards, Internal Audit Charter, Internal Audit Manual and Quality Assurance & Improvement Program.

The incumbent acts as the primary Internal Audit contact for UAE regulatory matters, coordinating audit-related engagements, inspections, information requests and remediation activities with regulators and internal stakeholders. The role may also support special investigations, whistleblowing matters and other Board Audit Committee or management-requested assignments as appropriate.

Key Responsibilities:

Internal Audit Leadership & Execution

• Lead and execute risk-based internal audit assignments across operational, financial, compliance, digital, information technology and governance processes.
• Manage all phases of audit engagements including planning, risk assessment, fieldwork, reporting and follow-up activities.
• Evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of governance, risk management and internal control processes.
• Identify control weaknesses, process inefficiencies, emerging risks and opportunities for operational improvement.
• Review audit workpapers and reports to ensure quality, consistency and compliance with Internal Audit methodologies and professional standards.
• Maintain independence, objectivity and professional skepticism while conducting audit assignments.
• Support and coach other Internal Audit team members as required.

Audit Planning and Risk Assessment

• Support the Head of Internal Audit in developing and maintaining the annual and three-year risk-based Internal Audit Plan.
• Lead risk assessments for assigned audit universe components and identify areas requiring audit coverage.
• Monitor emerging risks, regulatory developments, organisational changes and strategic initiatives that may impact audit priorities.
• Contribute to quarterly reassessments of the audit plan and recommend additions, removals or amendments where necessary.
• Assist in maintaining an up-to-date understanding of the audit universe and associated risk profile.

Audit Reporting & Issue Follow-Up

• Prepare clear, concise and risk-focused audit reports including observations, root causes, impacts, and agreed management action plans.
• Present audit findings and recommendations to senior management and relevant governance committees where required.
• Monitor implementation of agreed management action plans and validate closure of audit findings.
• Escalate overdue, high-risk or critical findings to the Head of Internal Audit and senior management as appropriate.
• Ensure audit documentation and evidence are complete, accurate and maintained in accordance with Internal Audit requirements.

Regulatory Liaison and Compliance

• Audit Reporting & Issue Follow-Up
• Prepare clear, concise and risk-focused audit reports including observations, root causes, impacts, and agreed management action plans.
• Present audit findings and recommendations to senior management and relevant governance committees where required.
• Monitor implementation of agreed management action plans and validate closure of audit findings.
• Escalate overdue, high-risk or critical findings to the Head of Internal Audit and senior management as appropriate.
• Ensure audit documentation and evidence are complete, accurate and maintained in accordance with Internal Audit requirements.

Quality Assurance & Continuous Improvement

• Promote compliance with the IIA Global Internal Audit Standards, Internal Audit Charter and Internal Audit Manual.
• Participate in Quality Assurance and Improvement Program activities including internal assessments and external quality reviews.
• Support the enhancement of audit methodologies, tools, templates and reporting practices.
• Promote the use of data analytics, continuous auditing techniques and technology-enabled audit approaches.
• Identify opportunities to improve Internal Audit effectiveness, efficiency and stakeholder value.

Investigations & Special Assignments

• Support and, where required, lead special reviews, investigations, whistleblowing assessments and fraud-related assignments.
• Assist management and the Head of Internal Audit in assessing control failures, suspected misconduct and irregular activities.
• Support Board Audit Committee, management and regulatory requests for special audits and advisory engagements, while maintaining Internal Audit independence.
• Assist in identifying root causes and recommending practical remediation measures arising from investigations and special reviews.

Stakeholder Management

• Develop strong and constructive relationships with senior management and key stakeholders across UAE operations.
• Discuss audit observations with management and obtain agreement on practical remediation actions.
• Provide advice and insight regarding governance, risk management and internal control practices.
• Communicate audit results effectively to support informed decision-making and continuous improvement.
• Represent Internal Audit professionally in meetings with management, regulators, external auditors and other assurance providers.

Role Requirements:

Education

• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, Auditing, Business Administration, Insurance, or a related discipline.

Professional Qualifications

• CIA (Certified Internal Auditor).
• CPA, ACCA, CA, CISA, or other relevant professional certifications are advantageous.

Experience

• Minimum 7 years of progressive experience in Internal Audit, External Audit, Risk Advisory or Assurance.
• Experience within the insurance industry is required, either in an internal audit role or through an audit/advisory firm serving insurance clients.
• Experience dealing with regulators, regulatory inspections and remediation programmes within the UAE insurance sector.
• Health insurance industry experience would be an advantage.
• Experience conducting operational, financial, governance, compliance and technology audits.
• Experience in fraud investigations, special reviews, data analytics and audit management systems would be advantageous.

Technical Knowledge

• Strong knowledge of Internal Audit standards and methodologies.
• Good understanding of accounting and financial controls.
• Knowledge of enterprise risk management principles.
• Understanding of UAE insurance regulatory requirements and corporate governance expectations.
• Good understanding of IT controls and technology-related risks.
• Experience using Diligent or similar audit management software.