Group Senior Internal Auditor

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 using 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. Ghobash Trading & Investment is also active in private financial investments, including private equity and debt, venture capital, real estate and publicly listed financial investments.

Job Description

The Senior Internal Auditor is responsible for leading and executing assigned internal audit engagements from planning through to reporting. This includes 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 also contributes to the continuous enhancement of the Group’s risk assessment process and supports governance, compliance, and operational excellence across the Group.

• 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.
• 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.
• Escalate foreseeable delays in receiving requested information to the Group Head of Internal Audit.
• Prepare and/or update Business Understanding documentation, including updates to existing Process Risk Registers.
• Develop Risk and Control Matrices (RACMs), audit programs, and Sampling Memos for review and approval.
• Execute testing procedures in accordance with the approved RACMs and audit programs, ensuring timely and accurate completion.
• Identify control operating deficiencies or design weaknesses and develop pragmatic, risk-based recommendations.
• Participate in audit meetings to discuss findings and seek guidance from the Group Head of Internal Audit as needed.
• Engage directly with process owners and relevant stakeholders to obtain insights into business operations and validate understanding.
• Manage and direct assigned audit engagements, ensuring appropriate documentation and reporting to the Group Head of Internal Audit.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with senior management and stakeholders across Operating Companies.
• Independently conduct routine stock counts at various locations in the UAE, ensuring integrity of physical inventory records.
• 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.
• 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.
  
  

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (required).
• Chartered Accountant (CA) qualification.
• Minimum of 5 years of total professional experience, with at least 3 years in executing internal audits and providing internal control advisory services.
• Proven track record in conducting risk-based audits across various business functions or industries.
• Experience in preparing audit programs, performing control testing, and drafting audit reports with actionable recommendations.
• Prior exposure to audit methodologies, internal control frameworks (e.g., COSO), and risk assessment processes.
• Experience in working independently and as part of a team within a structured audit environment.
• Exposure to ERP systems, data analytics, or audit management software is an advantage.