Our client is currently seeking an experienced Internal Control Manager to head the internal control team at a healthy food restaurant brand.
The Head of Internal Control will ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, internal policies, and risk management frameworks.
The ideal candidate will design, implement, plan and monitor internal controls to safeguard company assets, enhance operational efficiency, and mitigate compliance risks.
Job Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership:
Lead the internal audit and control department, setting strategic priorities aligned with the organization’s goals.
Develop and execute an annual audit plan based on risk assessments, ensuring comprehensive coverage of key processes.
Advise senior management on significant control weaknesses, compliance issues, and risk management.
Audit and Control Oversight:
Ensure the effective design, implementation, and monitoring of internal controls to mitigate risks and prevent fraud.
Oversee audit engagements and ensure they are conducted in accordance with professional standards, policies, and legal requirements.
Monitor compliance with internal policies and external regulations, identifying areas for improvement and corrective action.
Risk Management:
Continuously assess the organization's risk profile and emerging risks, developing appropriate audit plans to address them.
Collaborate with senior leadership to integrate risk management practices throughout the business.
Review and assess the effectiveness of the organization's risk management framework.
Reporting and Communication:
Prepare and present comprehensive audit reports, including findings, recommendations, and action plans, to senior management and the Audit Committee.
Maintain open communication with key stakeholders, providing guidance on internal control and compliance-related issues.
Ensure timely follow-up on audit recommendations and track the progress of corrective actions.
Team Development:
Manage, mentor, and develop a high-performing internal audit team, providing guidance, training, and professional development opportunities.
Foster a culture of continuous improvement, ethical conduct, and strong internal controls across the organization.
External Stakeholder Interaction:
Liaise with external auditors, regulators, and other third parties as needed, ensuring effective communication and coordination on audit and compliance matters.
Ensure that the organization’s internal audit activities are aligned with the external audit process.
Continuous Improvement:
Identify and implement best practices, industry trends, and advancements in audit methodologies to enhance the internal audit function.
Lead initiatives to streamline audit processes, improve efficiency, and integrate technology into the audit process.
Qualification & Requirements
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
Master's degree or professional certifications (e.g., CIA, CPA, CISA) are preferred.
Experience:
Minimum of 10 years progressive experience in internal audit, with at least 5 years in a leadership or management role.
Experience in the food, retail and hospitality industry is desirable.
Strong knowledge of internal controls, risk management, compliance, and audit methodologies.
Experience with auditing complex organizational structures, including operations, IT systems, and financial reporting.
Proven track record of leading and developing high-performing audit teams.
Skills:
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
In-depth understanding of financial reporting standards, regulatory requirements, and audit frameworks.
Proficiency in audit management software and data analytics tools.