Head of Internal Audit

Hays has partnered with a growing Investment Firm that has a strong arm in Real Estate Development. They are looking for an Internal Audit Manager/Head to join the team in Dammam.
The role will involve establishing and leading the Internal Audit function from inception, including leading the co-sourced Establishment Phase engagement with the appointed external advisor.
Oversee and manage the internal audit function ensuring the integrity, accuracy, and compliance of the company's operations, financial systems, and governance frameworks, in addition to conducting audit visits in coordination with the company's functions, and identifying gaps, areas of improvement, recommendations and corrective plans and periodically monitoring their closure status.
Responsibilities will include:
Establishment Phase

• Lead the Establishment Phase engagement (IA Infrastructure, Enterprise Risk Assessment, 3-Year RBIA Plan) delivered in partnership with the appointed external advisor, retaining full accountability for the function throughout;
• Review and quality-assure all advisor deliverables (IA Charter, IA Manual, RACM, risk registers, RBIA Plan) prior to Audit Committee submission;
• Act as the day-to-day counterpart to the advisor's engagement team, coordinating stakeholder access and information requests;
• Own the knowledge-transfer plan to progressively build in-house IA capability;
• Recruit and build out the internal IA team as the function scales beyond the Establishment Phase;
• Present the transitional model's progress and advisor deliverables to the Audit Committee for approval;

Implementation Phase

• Develop and implement the internal audit department's operational plans, policies, and procedures in alignment with the company's strategic goals;
• Conduct periodic internal audits to assess the effectiveness of financial controls, governance frameworks, and risk management processes.
• Prepare and present comprehensive audit reports to senior management, the CEO, and the Audit Committee, ensuring actionable insights and recommend improvements for operational efficiency and compliance.
• Act as an objective source of independent advice to ensure validity, legality and goal achievement.
• Monitor the implementation of corrective actions in response to audit findings and track progress to mitigate risks.
• Evaluate and enhance the confidentiality, integrity, and reliability of financial systems and processes.
• Provide guidance on compliance with legal, regulatory, and internal policy requirements to safeguard the company's operations and reputation.
• Identify emerging risks and proactively advise the executive leadership on mitigation strategies to ensure company sustainability.

Requirements to apply:

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting or related field.
• 8+ years' experience with at least 2 years in a management position.
• Experience in establishing/transforming an IA function (not just operating one).
• Professional certification in accounting and audit (e.g. CPA, CIA) is mandatory.
• Exposure to large real estate companies, investment companies or PIF entities is key.
• Experience managing co-sourced or outsourced audit engagements/external advisors.
• You must be a fluent Arabic and English speaker.

The organisation is offering a competitive salary & benefits package.
If you meet the criteria above, please apply directly.
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