Head of Internal Audit

SUMMARY:
Head of Internal Audit - Banking - Somerset West

POSITION INFO:
Our reputable client within the Banking \/ Financial Services sector is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Head of Internal Audit to join their team based in Somerset West, Cape Town. Purpose of the Role The successful candidate will be responsible for leading and establishing an independent Internal Audit function, providing objective assurance to the Board and Executive Committee on governance, risk management, and internal controls. The role will oversee risk-based audit planning, regulatory compliance, internal control assessments, and reporting to the Board Audit Committee, ensuring alignment with banking regulations and international auditing standards. Minimum Requirements - Non-Negotiable Relevant bachelor's degree in accounting, Finance, Risk Management, or a related field. CA(SA) and\/or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) designation, or well advanced towards completion. Minimum 10-12 years' internal or external audit experience within Banking or Financial Services. Minimum 5 years' experience in a senior Internal Audit leadership role within a regulated financial institution. Proven experience reporting directly to a Board Audit Committee. Experience engaging with the Prudential Authority or equivalent regulatory bodies. Strong knowledge of risk-based auditing, IIA standards and banking regulations. Excellent leadership, stakeholder management, and Board-level reporting skills. Key Responsibilities Develop and implement the Internal Audit strategy, charter, and risk-based annual audit plan. Provide independent assurance on governance, risk management, and internal controls. Oversee audits covering credit, operational, IT\/cyber, financial crime, and conduct risks. Present audit findings, recommendations, and risk assessments to the Board Audit Committee. Monitor corrective action plans and ensure identified audit findings are resolved. Ensure compliance with IIA standards, King IV and applicable banking regulations. Engage with regulatory authorities, including the Prudential Authority and FSCA. Establish and maintain an Internal Audit Quality Assurance and Improvement Programme. Build and develop a high-performing Internal Audit function. Implement data analytics and continuous auditing techniques. Support investigations into significant fraud, governance breaches, and whistleblower matters. Maintain the independence, integrity, and effectiveness of the Internal Audit function. Advantageous Experience CISA qualification or equivalent. Experience establishing or expanding an Internal Audit function within a growing or newly licensed banking institution. Exposure to IT\/cyber auditing, data analytics, and continuous auditing methodologies. Experience leading multidisciplinary audit teams. Key Competencies Strong analytical and strategic thinking. Independence, integrity, and professional judgement. Excellent communication and presentation skills. Strong leadership and team development abilities. Sound understanding of banking governance and regulatory frameworks. Ability to engage confidently with senior executives, Board members, and regulators. Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills. Please take note: if you have not been contacted within 14 days, please consider your application unsuccessful.