Senior Internal Auditor

Job description / Role

Responsibilities and duties

• Develop a deep understanding of EIA’s operations and processes to implement and enhance internal audit practices effectively.
• Support the Chief Internal Auditor in creating the multiyear audit plan and the annual internal audit plan, ensuring the audits are comprehensive, efficient, and effective.
• Lead and conduct regular and ad hoc audits across all EIA functions, including investments, in collaboration with the Chief Internal Auditor and Internal Audit Manager.
• Plan and oversee individual audit assignments, including the preparation of notification letters, audit programs, and summary memos, in accordance with the audit manual.
• Coordinate audit activities with managers to ensure alignment on schedules and audit scope.
• Foster strong business relationships with line management to maintain ongoing communication and ensure audit recommendations are implemented.

Perform detailed audits across all EIA departments, identifying risk management deficiencies, control gaps, fraud red flags, compliance issues, and opportunities for operational improvement.

• Review and assess internal controls, business processes, and policies, recommending improvements to mitigate risks and enhance the protection of EIA’s assets.
• Stay current with industry trends and best practices in internal auditing, ensuring EIAs audit processes are aligned with global standards.
• Supervise both internal and external (co-sourced) auditors, ensuring audit quality and adherence to standards.
• Formulate actionable recommendations to mitigate identified risks, improving overall operational effectiveness.
• Prepare comprehensive audit reports documenting findings, and communicate them with key stakeholders, including the Chief Internal Auditor and Internal Audit Manager.
• Report on audit progress, detailing work completed, scope, materiality, findings, and recommendations.
• Support audit activities related to portfolio companies as required, ensuring compliance and risk mitigation across the organization.
• Ensure compliance with EIA’s Internal Audit Manual and the IIA’s Standards for International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) for internal auditing.
• Perform follow-up audits on agreed actions from previous audit reports and present findings to relevant committees.
• Contribute to the preparation of materials for the Audit Committee, including reports and presentations.
• Coach and mentor UAE nationals, fostering talent development and promoting knowledge transfer, particularly in internal audit practices.
• Manage departmental administrative tasks, such as maintaining the IA Share Folder.
• Support other audit-related tasks as directed by the Chief Internal Auditor.

Requirements

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field.
• A higher degree or relevant professional certifications (e.g., CPA, CIA, ACCA) are highly preferred.
• Ongoing studies towards obtaining additional professional certifications are an advantage.

Background and experience

• 4–6 years of relevant experience, preferably in internal audit or risk management.
• Experience in the financial services sector is an advantage.
• In-depth knowledge of IAS/IFRS, audit reporting, compliance, and financial analysis.
• Familiarity with the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) Standards for the International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) or equivalent audit standards.
• Experience in risk assessment and management reporting.
• Fluent in both English and Arabic.
• UAE national preferred.

Personal attributes

• Consultative solutions builder: Ability to act as a trusted advisor and solutions-oriented partner, working collaboratively with stakeholders to identify opportunities for improvement and build tailored solutions that address business needs.
• Analytical problem-solver: Demonstrates strong problem-solving skills, using hypothesis-driven thinking and rigorous analysis to identify root causes and develop effective recommendations.
• Attention to detail: Highly focused on accuracy and precision, with a strong ability to manage complex tasks with meticulous attention to detail.
• Goal-oriented: Strong drive to achieve results, with the ability to work efficiently under tight deadlines while maintaining a high standard of work.
• Excellent communication skills: Ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing, and to influence stakeholders through persuasive presentations and well-structured reports.
• Team player: Collaborative approach, with the ability to work effectively with subordinates, peers, and superiors, building strong relationships across the organization.
• Self-motivated: Demonstrates initiative and ambition, with a proactive attitude and a willingness to take on new challenges and make a positive impact.
• Ownership and accountability: Takes full responsibility for the quality and outcomes of assigned work, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and effectively.
• Adaptable and resilient: Comfortable in a fast-paced, evolving environment, with the ability to adjust to changing organizational needs and contribute to the growth of a newly established internal audit function.
• Mentorship and development focus: Passion for developing talent and supporting the professional growth of UAE nationals, especially within the context of internal audit.