Senior Internal Audit Manager

General Overview: We are looking for an experienced Senior Internal Audit Manager to join our client, an established organization in the insurance sector, in UAE. This is a senior leadership opportunity for an accomplished audit professional to lead the internal audit function, strengthen governance, and provide independent assurance to senior management and the Board Audit Committee. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing a risk-based audit strategy, evaluating internal controls and risk management processes, ensuring compliance with applicable regulatory requirements, and driving continuous improvement across the organization. The role also involves advising senior stakeholders on emerging risks, overseeing audit quality, and developing a high-performing internal audit team. Key Responsibilities: Develop and implement a comprehensive, risk-based annual audit plan aligned with the organization's strategic objectives and risk appetite. Present the annual audit plan to the Board Audit Committee and senior management for approval. Lead and manage the internal audit function, ensuring the team has the appropriate skills, resources, and capabilities. Oversee the full audit lifecycle, including planning, fieldwork, reporting, and follow-up, in accordance with Global Internal Audit Standards and applicable regulatory requirements. Evaluate the effectiveness of internal controls, risk management processes, and governance frameworks, providing practical recommendations for improvement. Review and approve audit fieldwork and working papers to ensure quality, accuracy, and compliance with established methodologies. Prepare and present clear, actionable audit reports covering key findings, recommendations, and management action plans. Monitor the implementation of audit recommendations and report remediation progress to the Board Audit Committee. Leverage data analytics and audit technology to improve audit coverage, efficiency, and insights. Maintain strong relationships with the Board Audit Committee, senior management, and key stakeholders to understand business operations and identify emerging risks. Coordinate with external auditors, regulators, and other assurance functions to support effective audit coverage and minimize duplication. Lead, mentor, and develop the internal audit team through coaching, training, performance management, and professional development. Develop, maintain, and implement internal audit methodologies and participate in special investigations and business advisory assignments when required. Provide advisory support on new business initiatives, systems, organizational changes, and business optimization opportunities. Proactively identify, assess, and report departmental risks in line with organizational risk policies and procedures. Maintain strict confidentiality and ensure all audit activities comply with applicable UAE laws, regulatory requirements, and internal policies. Key Requirements: Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Risk Management, Business Administration, or a related discipline. Professional audit qualification such as ACA, ACCA, CIA, CISA, or CPA. At least 10 years of relevant professional experience, primarily within the insurance sector. In-depth understanding of the end-to-end insurance business cycle, applicable regulations, and accounting standards. Strong knowledge of internal audit principles, practices, methodologies, and risk-based audit planning. Proven experience leading audits, projects, and initiatives, including reviewing and supervising the work of team members. Experience building credible working relationships with senior executives and key stakeholders. Demonstrated ability to coach, mentor, and develop audit professionals. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Strong analytical skills, accuracy, attention to detail, and sound professional judgement. Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and report-writing skills. High levels of integrity, discretion, confidentiality, initiative, and a results-driven mindset. Show more Show less