Group Senior Internal Auditor

Role Overview

Group Senior Internal Auditor at Ghobash Trading & Investment (GTI), a multi-asset class investment firm operating across various geographies.

Company Overview

Ghobash Trading & Investment (GTI) is actively engaged in multi-asset class investment activities across various geographies carried out by a highly qualified and experienced in-house team of investment professionals. The team uses an Asset Allocation Matrix to realize risk-adjusted returns on invested capital over a long-term period. Investment activities include direct investments in startups, taking stakes in established businesses, acquisitions of business enterprises, and setting-up new businesses through collaborative joint venture routes. GTI is also active in private financial investments, including private equity and debt, venture capital, real estate, and publicly listed financial investments.

Role Purpose

The Senior Internal Auditor leads and executes assigned internal audit engagements from planning through to reporting, including conducting risk-based audits, evaluating internal controls and business processes, identifying areas for improvement, and delivering high-quality audit reports with value-adding, consultative recommendations. The role contributes to the continuous enhancement of the Group's risk assessment process and supports governance, compliance, and operational excellence across the Group.

Key Responsibilities

Risk Assessment & Planning

• Lead and participate in the annual risk assessment exercise for the Group, including gathering risk intelligence from audits, management interviews, and emerging risk factors.
• Ensure quarterly updates to the risk assessment reflect changes in the operating environment, business priorities, and risk profiles.
• Develop Risk and Control Matrices (RACMs), audit programs, and Sampling Memos for review and approval.
• Prepare and/or update Business Understanding documentation, including updates to existing Process Risk Registers.

Audit Execution

• Participate in the implementation of the Annual Internal Audit Plan by executing assigned audit projects in line with approved timelines and methodology.
• Schedule and facilitate Kick-off, Status Update, Exit, and Close-out Meetings with Operating Companies and auditees.
• Develop and submit Preliminary Information Request Lists (IRLs) to auditees following the Kick-off meeting.
• Execute testing procedures in accordance with the approved RACMs and audit programs, ensuring timely and accurate completion.
• Conduct detailed fact-gathering and analysis in a thorough, well-organized, and methodical manner.
• Ensure the audit engagement is executed as designed, and address auditee concerns promptly and professionally.
• Independently conduct routine stock counts at various locations in the UAE, ensuring integrity of physical inventory records.

Findings & Recommendations

• Identify control operating deficiencies or design weaknesses and develop pragmatic, risk-based recommendations.
• Engage directly with process owners and relevant stakeholders to obtain insights into business operations and validate understanding.
• Participate in audit meetings to discuss findings and seek guidance from the Group Head of Internal Audit as needed.
• Prepare high-quality draft audit reports and recommendations, reflecting findings and root causes with clarity.
• Review management responses, engage in discussion for clarity or further action, and update final reports accordingly with guidance from the Group Head of Internal Audit.

Engagement Management

• Manage and direct assigned audit engagements, ensuring appropriate documentation and reporting to the Group Head of Internal Audit.
• Escalate foreseeable delays in receiving requested information to the Group Head of Internal Audit.
• Ensure audits are completed within the approved budget and timelines and proactively escalate any anticipated delays or scope changes.
• Support the timely issuance of draft and final reports to the Group Head of Internal Audit and contribute to preparation for Audit Committee reporting.

Governance & Reporting

• Assist in the development of quarterly Board Audit Committee presentations, including audit summaries, key findings, and status of recommendations.
• Monitor the implementation status of internal audit recommendations and report on progress quarterly to the Group Head of Internal Audit.

Stakeholder Management

• Build and maintain effective relationships with senior management and stakeholders across Operating Companies.

Special Projects & Additional Duties

• Perform ad-hoc reviews, special assignments, consultancy projects, or targeted compliance reviews as directed.
• Carry out other related duties as assigned by the Group Head of Internal Audit.

Technology & Innovation

• Leverage AI and advanced analytics tools to enhance audit procedures, including random sampling, anomaly detection, and predictive analysis.
• Apply AI-driven techniques to strengthen control design and operating effectiveness.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's Degree
• Chartered Accountant
• Minimum work experience of 5 years
• At least 3 years' experience in executing internal audits and internal control advisory
• Additional qualifications such as CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) or CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) are desired

Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of risks and the adequacy of internal controls
• Good knowledge of audit risk assessment process and audit planning techniques
• Very good communication and presentation skills
• Highly analytical and assertive personality
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment
• Ability to execute audit assignments with minimal supervision
• Assumes responsibility
• Attention to detail
• Organization and time-keeping
• Positive attitude
• Bilingual preferred