Head of Internal Audit

Hays is partnered with a leading consumer goods company with a strong presence in the regional market. As part of its continued focus on strengthening internal controls and risk management, the company is seeking to appoint a Head of Internal Audit.

The Head of Internal Audit will be responsible for establishing, leading, and executing the internal audit function across the organisation. This is a senior standalone role reporting to the Audit Committee / senior management, with a mandate to build the internal audit framework from the ground up and provide independent, objective assurance on governance, risk management, and internal controls.

Key Responsibilities

• Establish and lead the Internal Audit function, including designing the audit framework, policies, and procedures from scratch.
• Develop and execute a risk-based annual internal audit plan aligned with business objectives and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct end-to-end internal audits covering operational, financial, compliance, and IT processes
• Evaluate the effectiveness of internal controls, risk management practices, and governance processes
• Identify control gaps, process inefficiencies, and areas of risk, and provide practical recommendations for improvement
• Prepare clear and concise audit reports and present findings to senior management and the Audit Committee
• Follow up on audit findings to ensure timely and effective implementation of agreed corrective actions
• Act as a trusted advisor to management on internal control, risk, and compliance matters
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies
• Maintain professional audit standards in line with IIA guidelines and best practices
• Lead technical audits such as system-based audits, data analytics reviews, and process automation controls (technical responsibility)

Qualifications & Experience

• Professional certification such as CIA, CPA, or an equivalent internationally recognised qualification
• Minimum 10+ years of experience within the Internal Audit function, with exposure to senior-level responsibilities
• Prior experience within the consumer goods / FMCG industry is strongly preferred.
• Proven experience working in a standalone internal audit role, with the ability to operate independently
• Demonstrated experience in building or restructuring an internal audit function from scratch
• Strong technical knowledge of internal audit methodologies, risk assessment, and internal control frameworks
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and report-writing skills

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