European Head of Internal Audit

• PE backed, £800m t/o Manufacturing business
• Design & roll-out Risk based IA function
• London Based, some European travel, hybrid working pattern

Company Overview

My client are a high-growth, PE-backed European manufacturing group with operations across multiple countries. Backed by a leading private equity investor, the business is undergoing significant transformation, including international expansion, digitalisation, and operational optimisation. As part of strengthening their governance and risk framework, they are seeking a hands-on and commercially astute Head of Internal Audit to build and lead a best-in-class internal audit function aligned to the needs of a fast-paced, value-driven environment.

Role Summary

As Head of Internal Audit, you will be responsible for designing, implementing, and leading the internal audit function across the group. This role plays a critical part in identifying and mitigating risk, improving controls, and supporting the delivery of the business plan under private equity ownership. You will work closely with senior leadership and the PE firm to ensure strong internal controls, financial integrity, and compliance across all business units.

Key Responsibilities

• Internal Audit Strategy: Develop and execute a risk-based internal audit plan aligned with business priorities and private equity requirements.
• Control Environment: Evaluate and enhance internal control systems across operational, financial, IT, and compliance areas.
• Audit Execution: Plan and conduct audits across business units and geographies, including site visits, walkthroughs, and testing of key processes.
• Risk Management: Partner with the executive team to identify, assess, and monitor key business and operational risks.
• Governance & Compliance: Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory, financial, and industry standards across jurisdictions.
• Reporting: Provide clear, actionable reports and dashboards to the CFO, Audit Committee, and PE sponsors.

Candidate ProfileExperience & Skills

• Minimum 8–10 years of experience in internal audit, risk management, or assurance roles, ideally with a mix of Big Four and industry experience.
• Prior experience in a manufacturing, industrial, or supply chain environment.
• Experience working in a PE-backed or highly leveraged business is strongly preferred.
• European Audit experience a plus
• Professional certification: CIA, ACCA, CPA, or CISA (preferred)

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and bonus structure
• Opportunity to shape and lead a function in a fast-paced, PE-backed business
• International exposure and involvement in strategic decision-making
• A high-performance culture with a strong operational and commercial focus