Key Achievements:
- Developed and executed the organisation’s internal audit strategy, increasing coverage and risk detection by 40%.
- Reduced audit cycle times by 30% through streamlined planning, risk-based methodology, and digital tools.
- Strengthened internal controls, reducing financial and operational errors by 50%.
- Implemented audit management software, saving 15+ hours per week in reporting and analysis.
- Led audits across multiple business units, achieving zero critical findings from internal and external audits.
- Developed KPIs and dashboards for executive leadership and the audit committee, providing real-time insights.
- Mentored and developed audit managers and senior auditors, creating a high-performing team.
- Conducted fraud risk assessments, preventing potential financial and reputational losses.
- Enhanced IT and systems audit coverage, including ERP, cybersecurity, and data integrity audits.
- Coordinated with external auditors to reduce duplication and improve audit effectiveness.
- Standardised audit documentation, templates, and reporting to improve efficiency and compliance.
- Led internal investigations, providing actionable recommendations and corrective measures.
- Integrated internal audit with risk management, compliance, and corporate governance frameworks.
- Reduced audit costs while increasing scope and effectiveness, improving ROI for audit functions.
- Implemented predictive analytics for audit planning and emerging risk detection.
- Oversaw regulatory audits and inspections, maintaining compliance and governance standards.
- Developed training programs to enhance technical audit skills and professional certifications.
- Improved reporting to the board and executive leadership on audit outcomes, risks, and mitigation plans.
- Conducted operational and financial risk assessments to identify control gaps and recommend improvements.
- Facilitated successful audits during mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures.
- Strengthened stakeholder engagement across finance, operations, and IT functions.
- Enhanced continuous monitoring programs for financial and operational risk assessment.
Duties & Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement the organisation’s internal audit strategy, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives and risk appetite.
- Lead and manage internal audit teams, providing mentorship, performance management, and professional development.
- Oversee audit planning, execution, reporting, and follow-up of recommendations to senior leadership and the audit committee.
- Ensure audits evaluate operational, financial, IT, and compliance risks effectively and efficiently.
- Implement audit technologies, tools, and methodologies to enhance coverage, accuracy, and timeliness.
- Collaborate with risk, compliance, and finance teams to strengthen governance and internal controls.
- Advise executive leadership and the board on audit findings, risk exposures, and mitigation strategies.
What does a Head of Internal Audit do?
A Head of Internal Audit leads the internal audit function, ensuring the organisation's governance, risk management and internal control processes operate effectively. They provide independent assurance to senior leadership and the board while helping strengthen organisational performance.
What qualifications do you need to become a Head of Internal Audit?
Most employers require ACA, ACCA, CIA or equivalent professional qualifications alongside extensive experience in internal audit, governance and leadership.
What skills are important for a Head of Internal Audit?
Successful Heads of Internal Audit require exceptional analytical ability, leadership and communication skills. Strong knowledge of risk management, corporate governance and regulatory compliance is equally important.
What career progression is available for a Head of Internal Audit?
Heads of Internal Audit commonly progress into Chief Audit Executive, Chief Risk Officer, Chief Financial Officer or Board Advisory positions.
What are the responsibilities of a Head of Internal Audit?
Responsibilities include developing audit plans, leading internal audit teams, evaluating internal controls, reporting findings to senior leadership and audit committees, monitoring risk management and ensuring regulatory compliance.