Principal Auditor - Data Analytics & IT

Dragon Oil (Holding) Ltd; Dubai; On-site; AED 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading oil and gas company in Dubai is seeking a Head of Internal Audit to lead data analytics initiatives and manage IT audits. The ideal candidate will have over 15 years of experience in Data Analytics and Internal Audit, including 5 years in a leadership role. Responsibilities include optimizing audit processes and collaborating with senior management to enhance risk detection and compliance.

Qualifications

• Minimum 15 years of Data Analytics, Internal Audit, or Technology Audit experience.
• 5 years in a leadership role is required.
• Proven audit expertise in Oil & Gas or Manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Lead Data Analytics initiatives in the Internal Audit Department.
• Supervise audit software ensuring data integrity.
• Collaborate with teams to align analytics with audit priorities.

Skills

Data Analytics

Stakeholder Management

Risk Assessment & Management

Process Improvement & Optimization

Education

Bachelor's Degree in relevant field

Master's Degree preferred

Tools

SAP

SQL

Python

TeamMate

Job description

Job Purpose

• Lead the Internal Audit Department's Data Analytics function, focusing on continuous control monitoring and automation.
• Manage IT and SAP audit engagements, supervise analysts, and coordinate with stakeholders on technology‑related audits.
• Recommend corrective actions to improve operational efficiency and support business objectives.
• Oversee daily activities of the Internal Audit Department in alignment with corporate strategy and audit goals.
• Conduct ad‑hoc audit assignments as requested by the Chief Internal Audit Officer (CIAO).
• Perform investigations into fraud or policy breaches at the direction of the CIAO.

Job Responsibilities

• Lead the Internal Audit Department's Data Analytics initiatives, focusing on continuous control monitoring and automation.
• Maintain and optimize audit software (e.g., TeamMate), ensuring structured workflows, data integrity, and audit traceability.
• Develop advanced analytics models using tools like SQL and Python to enhance risk detection and trend analysis.
• Supervise the DA team fostering innovation and embedding data-driven approaches into audit execution.
• Collaborate with internal teams and senior leadership to align analytics insights with strategic audit priorities.
• Structure and position the Internal Audit function in line with international standards, including charter development and organisational levelling.
• Oversee IT and SAP audits in coordination with external service providers, while guiding internal audit teams on technical scope, compliance frameworks (e.g., SOX, ISO27001), and risk coverage.
• Conduct investigations and ad-hoc reviews as directed by the CIAO or Board, providing independent assurance on internal controls, governance, and compliance.
• Develop and execute audit programs leveraging data analytics, ensuring timely delivery of reports and alignment with the approved audit plan.

Education

• Bachelor's Degree in relevant Field required
• Minimum 15 years of Data Analytics, Internal Audit or Technology Audit work experience including 5 years in a Leadership role.
• Proven industry-specific audit expertise (e.g. Oil & Gas, Manufacturing) focused on analytics for risk management.

Job Requirement

• Business Planning and Performance Measurement
• Corporate Compliance
• Corporate Audit - Communication
• Corporate Audit - Professional Development
• Corporate Audit - Reporting
• Corporate Audit - Strategy
• Corporate Audit Risk Control and Governance
• Corporate Audits
• Corporate Governance
• Stakeholder Management
• Corporate Reporting - Internal
• Financial Risk Management
• Internal Control
• Management of Corporate Audits
• Reports for Government AgenciesRisk Assessment & Management
• Process Improvement & Optimization
• Data Analytics and Visualization
• Automated Controls Testing

Certifications

• Master's Degree is preferred
• Mandatory Certificates including CISA, Data Analytics Professional; CIA or CPA is preferred.

Skills

Physical Requirements

Years of Experience