Strategic Head of Internal Audit & Risk

Westports Malaysia Sdn Bhd; Klang City; On-site; MYR 240,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

Westports Malaysia Sdn Bhd seeks a seasoned Head of Internal Audit to develop and execute a risk-based annual Internal Audit Plan aligned with the port's strategic objectives and regulatory requirements. The role oversees audits across terminal operations, marine services, cargo handling, port security and safety, finance, procurement, HR, IT and support functions.

The incumbent will evaluate governance, risk management and internal controls, present findings to the Audit Committee and Senior

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or Maritime/Port Management.
• Professional certification such as CIA, CPA, CA, or equivalent qualification is required.
• Familiarity with ISO management systems, the ISM Code, COSO Framework, ERM, or port-related audit frameworks is advantageous.
• Minimum of 10 years' relevant experience in Internal Audit, Risk Management, or Governance, with at least 5 years in a senior management or leadership position.
• Experience in the port, maritime, logistics, transportation, or infrastructure sectors is highly preferred.
• Strong analytical, investigative, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess complex operational and strategic risks.
• Sound knowledge of port operations, regulatory compliance, governance frameworks, and occupational safety and security requirements.
• Excellent communication, presentation, stakeholder management and report writing skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a risk-based annual Internal Audit Plan aligned with strategic objectives and regulatory requirements.
• Lead audits across terminal operations, marine services, cargo handling, port security and safety, finance, procurement, HR, IT and support functions.
• Evaluate governance, risk management, and internal controls; recommend practical improvements.
• Present audit findings to Audit Committee and Senior Management; ensure timely reporting.
• Monitor implementation of audit recommendations to ensure effective risk mitigation.
• Ensure compliance with laws, port regulations, ISPS/IMO standards.
• Prepare quarterly Enterprise Risk Register and communicate emerging risk trends.
• Coordinate with external auditors and regulatory authorities.
• Provide advisory support on strategic initiatives including port expansion, digitalisation, and sustainability.
• Lead, mentor and develop Internal Audit team; promote ethics and independence.

Skills

Analytical skills

Investigative skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Presentation skills

Stakeholder management

Report writing

Cross-functional leadership

Integrity and ethics

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or Maritime/Port Management

CIA/CPA/CA or equivalent professional certification

Tools

ISO management systems

ISM Code

COSO Framework

Enterprise Risk Management (ERM)

Port-related audit frameworks

Job description

Westports Malaysia Sdn Bhd seeks a seasoned Head of Internal Audit to develop and execute a risk-based annual Internal Audit Plan aligned with the port's strategic objectives and regulatory requirements. The role oversees audits across terminal operations, marine services, cargo handling, port security and safety, finance, procurement, HR, IT and support functions.

The incumbent will evaluate governance, risk management and internal controls, present findings to the Audit Committee and Senior