Manager, Internal Audit

JOB PURPOSE SUMMARYThe Manager, Internal Audit (Operational / Performance), is responsible for leading the planning and execution of audit engagements, identifying and communicating key business risks, and recommending improvements to business processes. This position operates under the general guidance of the Director of Internal Audit and plays a critical role in supporting the University's internal control environment. KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:Under the direction of Internal Audit Director:- Lead, develop, and implement audit planning based on the scope and complexity of the area under review.- Prepare the annual internal audit plan and present it to the Director of Internal Audit for review and approval.- Identify, assess, and communicate key business risks, ensuring risk-based audit approaches and appropriate coverage in all engagements.- Lead and supervise audit team members, providing direction, support, and performance feedback throughout the engagement.- Maintain full accountability for the quality and completeness of audit work performed.- Prepare comprehensive audit documentation and workpapers to support conclusions, and communicate findings through clear meetings, reports, and presentations.- Promote the continuous improvement of internal audit processes and methodologies aligned with Zayed University's operational environment.- Ensure all audit activities are conducted in compliance with IIA Standards, global standards, and best practices.- Conduct compliance audits to assess adherence to applicable regulations, University policies, and contractual obligations, and provide recommendations for improvement.- Prepare the department’s budget, report its status, and submit it to the Director of Internal Audit for review and approval.- Initiate and contribute to process improvement efforts to enhance operational efficiency and strengthen internal controls.- Undertake special assignments and tasks as delegated by the Director of Internal Audit.- Conduct follow-up activities to ensure the implementation of corrective actions and the resolution of identified issues and recommendations.- Coordinate closely with external auditors and regulatory bodies, such as the UAE Accountability Authority (UAEAA), to align on audit-related activities and respond to inquiries.DEGREE OF INDEPENDENCE/COMPLEXITY OF ENVIRONMENT- Independent judgment and professionalism is used to determine the appropriation and adequacy of financial and operational practices.- Observation, verification and enquiry are used to determine the degree of compliance to the laws, by-laws and regulations applied.WORKING RELATIONSHIPS/IMPACT OF INTERACTIONS- Works closely with Directors of Business Units subject to the audit, obtains various information required to conduct the audit, provides overview of the internal auditor role, discusses and agrees audit findings with the Director Internal Audit, reports the audit findings and auditor recommendations to the Director Internal Audit.- Maintains a collaborative and professional relationship with audit clients, fostering a constructive audit environment.- Demonstrates a respectful and cooperative relationship with the audited area’s staff.- Coordinates between external parties and the University’s internal stakeholders.- Any major disagreements during audit engagements should be reported to the Director of Internal Audit for resolution.EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTSA professional qualification such as ACCA, CPA,CIA or CFE and a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, with 8 years of internal audit experience or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience and knowledge of audit programs and systems.Desired or preferred requirements:- Prior experience in government and education organizations.- Bilingual proficiency in English and Arabic.