Chief Audit Executive

We are seeking a seasoned assurance leader to serve as the custodian of independent assurance at Airports Company South Africa. Are you ready to lead a future-focused internal audit function that strengthens accountability, enhances organisational resilience and supports informed decision-making at Board level?

Key Performance Output

In this pivotal leadership role, reporting functionally to the Audit and Risk Committee and administratively to the Chief Executive Officer, the successful individual will provide independent strategic assurance to the Board and Executive Management on the effectiveness of governance, risk management, technology, internal controls and organisational performance, focusing on the following:

• Develop and execute a risk-based internal audit strategy and lead the development of the annual audit plan in line with ACSA’s strategic intent;


• Provide independent assurance on governance effectiveness, risk management maturity, internal control effectiveness and regulatory compliance;


• Develop, maintain and review the Internal Audit Charter in line with applicable legislation and the International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF), and obtain Audit and Risk Committee and Board approval;


• Lead and coordinate the combined assurance framework to optimise assurance coverage and reduce duplication;


• Ensure compliance with the Institute of Internal Auditors’ standards and set the quality assurance standards for the audit methodology;


• Provide assurance over IT governance, cyber security, digital transformation and data management, and drive technology-enabled auditing and data analytics;


• Provide independent assurance on contract governance, procurement compliance and supplier performance management;


• Provide strategic oversight of the whistleblowing and ethics reporting framework, and ensure investigations are conducted independently, objectively and professionally;


• Report significant findings, trends, control failures and emerging ethical risks to the Audit and Risk Committee and the Board;


• Serve as principal advisor to the Audit and Risk Committee, and foster constructive relationships with the Board, Executive Management, external auditors and regulators; and


• Lead, develop and mentor the Internal Audit team and manage the divisional budget.


• Ensure Alignment of IA programs and activities with external auditors to optimise audit coverage and to prevent duplication.

Technical Skills and Experience

The following skills and experience or the equivalent of such will be required:

• A relevant Honours Degree (NQF Level 8) in internal auditing, accounting, finance, risk management or equivalent is essential;


• A Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Business Leadership (MBL), a master’s degree in accounting or equivalent (NQF Level 9) is advantageous;


• Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) and Chartered Accountant (SA) designations are essential;


• Registration with the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) and SAICA is essential, and ISACA registration is recommended;


• A total of 13 years’ experience, including 8 years in audit execution and management within large, complex regulated organisations and 5 years at senior management level is essential;


• Knowledge of internal auditing processes, corporate governance, combined assurance frameworks and cyber security governance;


• Knowledge of financial management, contract management, project management and quality management; and


• Intermediate proficiency in ERP systems and in audit analysis and automation tools.

Competencies

The ideal individual combines strong analytical thinking and attention to detail with the leadership to guide an independent assurance function. It is an individual who communicates and writes with clarity, builds relationships of trust, facilitates and negotiates effectively, manages conflict and copes well under pressure. The individual must be results-oriented, well organised and able to solve complex problems. A demonstrable affinity for ethics and integrity is essential.

Application and Enquiries 

Fundicon Executive Search has been retained with an exclusive mandate for this recruitment assignment.

Email: [email protected]

Closing Date: 03 November 2026

Positions will be filled in line with Airports Company South Africa value, transformation and Employment Equity Policy and Plan, including people living with disabilities. 

Should you not hear from us within 30 days of your application, consider your application unsuccessful.

Shortlisted candidates will be required to provide proof of their qualifications, NQF level and credits, and must be eligible for Top Security Clearance within 3 months of appointment.