Senior External Audit Leader – Strategy & Execution

PwC Middle East; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 360,000 - 520,000; Full time

Job summary

PwC Middle East is seeking a senior external auditor to manage client portfolios, lead audit engagements, and contribute to the development of the Assurance practice. The role focuses on delivering high-quality audits in line with ISAs and IFRS, while mentoring junior staff and maintaining strong client relations.

The successful candidate will have 8–10 years of external financial audit experience, professional qualifications (ACCA/CA/ACA/CPA), and strong communication skills in Arabic and

Qualifications

• A degree in accounting, finance or related field.
• 8–10 years of external financial audit experience, preferably in a Big Four.
• Professional qualifications such as ACCA, CA, ACA, or CPA.
• Experience auditing Banking/Insurance clients is an asset.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Bilingual proficiency in Arabic and English is a plus.
• Knowledge of ISAs and IFRS relevant to financial services.
• Strong project management and team leadership skills.
• Ability to mentor junior staff and manage client relationships.

Responsibilities

• Assist in managing a portfolio of clients, handling day-to-day liaison and technical issues.
• Lead business development efforts to identify opportunities and build client relationships.
• Develop strategies to solve complex technical challenges and grow team expertise.
• Oversee delivery of large projects, ensuring key deadlines are met.
• Design audit strategy and manage execution in line with engagement leadership guidance.
• Present findings to senior management and audit committees, and stay updated on regulatory changes.
• Ensure compliance with risk, quality, and independence standards.
• Mentor and develop junior team members and promote wellbeing.
• Drive digital initiatives and new audit delivery models for improved assurance.
• Participate in recruitment and hiring as per PwC standards.

Skills

External audit experience

Auditing leadership

Client relations

Project management

Data analytics awareness

Education

Accounting/Finance degree

ACCA/CA/ACA/CPA

Tools

Auditing software

Data Analytics tools

Job description

PwC Middle East is seeking a senior external auditor to manage client portfolios, lead audit engagements, and contribute to the development of the Assurance practice. The role focuses on delivering high-quality audits in line with ISAs and IFRS, while mentoring junior staff and maintaining strong client relations.

The successful candidate will have 8–10 years of external financial audit experience, professional qualifications (ACCA/CA/ACA/CPA), and strong communication skills in Arabic and