AVP, Internal Audit

Vaco Recruiter Services; Toronto; On-site; CAD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

Retirement plan

Job summary

Vaco Recruiter Services represents an insurance client seeking an AVP, Internal Audit to lead a broad portfolio of audits across jurisdictions.

The role reports to the Chief Internal Auditor, shapes the audit plan, develops dashboards, and partners with senior leadership to strengthen controls. It offers international travel, mentorship, and opportunities to evolve audit processes.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years’ experience in external and/or internal auditing in financial services (insurance/asset management preferred).
• Professional designation such as CPA/CA/CMA, CIA or equivalent.
• Willingness to travel internationally up to ~30% (Canada, US, UK).
• Familiarity with IIA International Standards of Practice and pursuit of CIA designation.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee a broad portfolio of internal audit, risk, compliance, and operational reviews across multiple business areas and jurisdictions.
• Support development and execution of the annual internal audit strategy and plan in line with risks and regulatory requirements.
• Provide oversight and quality assurance across audit engagements including planning, risk assessment, data analytics, reporting and follow-up.
• Partner with senior leadership to identify risks, strengthen internal controls, and provide practical recommendations to improve governance.
• Prepare and present audit insights and trends to senior management and governance committees.
• Lead, coach, and develop the Internal Audit team and promote data analytics and innovative practices.
• Maintain and enhance Internal Audit methodologies and procedures aligned with standards.
• Develop strong cross-functional relationships and participate in strategic initiatives.
• Support special reviews and investigations as required.
• Perform related responsibilities to support Internal Audit.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Risk assessment

Project management

Data analytics

IT auditing

Travel readiness

Experience in auditing

Education

University degree or college diploma in accounting/finance/business

CPA/CA/CMA or CIA designation

Tools

Internal auditing standards

Data analytics tools

Job description

About the Company

Our client is in the insurance industry. They are looking for a AVP, Internal Audit to join their team!

Why Work Here

• Broad ownership: The role leads operations and enterprise audits, and covers subsidiaries, and helps shape the audit plan and processes.


• Senior-level exposure: The AVP reports to the Chief Internal Auditor and works with Senior Execs, while supporting materials for board reporting.


• Opportunity to grow and improve the function: The team is building dashboards and evolving its audit processes, giving the new hire a chance to bring ideas


• Development and international scope: offers a training budget, will support a CIA designation if needed, and the role typically includes travel to the UK

About the Opportunity

• Lead and oversee a broad portfolio of internal audit, risk, compliance, and operational review activities across multiple business areas and jurisdictions.


• Support the development and execution of the annual internal audit strategy and plan, aligned with organizational priorities, risks, and regulatory requirements.


• Provide oversight and quality assurance across audit engagements, including planning, risk assessment, data analytics, reporting, and follow-up activities.


• Partner with Senior Leadership and key stakeholders to identify emerging risks, strengthen internal controls, and provide practical recommendations that enhance business performance and governance.


• Prepare and present audit insights, trends, and recommendations to senior management and governance committees as appropriate.


• Lead, coach, and develop the Internal Audit team, fostering a culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and professional development.


• Promote the use of data analytics, technology, and innovative audit practices to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the Internal Audit function.


• Maintain and enhance Internal Audit methodologies, frameworks, policies, and procedures in alignment with professional standards and leading practices.


• Develop strong working relationships across the organization and participate in strategic initiatives, projects, and committees where Internal Audit expertise is required.


• Support special reviews, investigations, advisory assignments, and other strategic initiatives as required.


• Perform other related responsibilities and special projects in support of the Internal Audit function.

About You

• Minimum university degree or community college diploma in accounting, finance or business


• Professional designation e.g. CPA (CA, CGA, CMA), CIA or equivalent


• Minimum 10 years’ experience in external and/or internal auditing in the financial services industry (insurance and/or asset management preferred). This experience should include risk-based audit planning, execution, file completion, reporting and supervision/management of audit staff.


• Familiarity with the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) International Standards of Practice and must be considering or be in the process of pursuing a CIA designation


• Strong understanding of regulatory and risk environments across North America and the United Kingdom.


• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong audit report writing capabilities.


• Strong risk assessment, analytical, negotiation, planning, and project management skills.


• Demonstrated leadership, coaching, interpersonal, and talent development capabilities.


• Experience with IT auditing, data analytics, and/or life insurance is an asset.


• Professional designations such as CISA, FLMI, or LOMA are considered an asset.


• Willingness and ability to travel internationally, including Canada, the US, and the UK, as required (up to approximately 30%).


• Valid passport and ability to travel to applicable jurisdictions.

Salary Range

• $150,000 - $190,000 / year


• The individual may also be eligible for discretionary bonuses, and can participate in medical, dental, and vision benefits as well as the company’s retirement plan.