Strategic Head of Internal Audit & Risk (UAE)

Michael Page; Dubai; On-site; AED 63,000 - 77,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits package

Job summary

Michael Page is seeking an experienced UAE National to lead an independent internal audit function across a diversified group. The role provides assurance and advisory support to senior governance stakeholders while overseeing risk-based audits, controls, compliance, and enterprise risk management activities.

The successful candidate will have 15+ years in internal audit or risk management, 5+ years in senior leadership, and professional qualifications such as CIA; GCC experience preferred.

Qualifications

• UAE National only
• CIA preferred; other certifications (CPA/CA/ACCA/CISA/CRMA) advantageous
• Minimum 15 years' experience in internal audit, assurance, or risk management
• At least 5 years in a senior leadership capacity
• Experience reporting to board-level or audit committees
• Strong background in risk-based auditing within complex or multi-entity environments
• Expertise across governance, enterprise risk management, compliance, fraud risk, and internal controls
• Experience with ERP systems, technology assurance, IT controls, and data analytics

Responsibilities

• Lead and maintain an independent internal audit function.
• Develop and execute risk-based annual and multi-year audit plans.
• Conduct enterprise-wide risk assessments across strategic, financial, operational, tech, and governance risks.
• Oversee financial, operational, compliance, governance, cybersecurity, and IT audits.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of internal controls, policies, and key business processes.
• Present audit findings, emerging risks, and performance updates to governance committees.
• Monitor remediation actions and validate corrective measures.
• Lead investigations, fraud reviews, and special assignments as required.
• Assess governance, risk management frameworks, and technology controls.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the internal audit team while maintaining standards.

Skills

Audit

Education

Bachelor's degree in Finance and related field

Tools

ERP systems

Data analytics

Job description

Michael Page is seeking an experienced UAE National to lead an independent internal audit function across a diversified group. The role provides assurance and advisory support to senior governance stakeholders while overseeing risk-based audits, controls, compliance, and enterprise risk management activities.

The successful candidate will have 15+ years in internal audit or risk management, 5+ years in senior leadership, and professional qualifications such as CIA; GCC experience preferred.