Director of Internal Audit - Electrical Manufacturing

About the role

A recruiter is partnering with a diversified group operating across the GCC to appoint a Group Internal Audit Director. The role establishes and leads the Group Internal Audit function, strengthens governance and risk management and provides independent assurance directly to the Board. It suits an experienced audit professional able to build the function from the ground up.

Key responsibilities

• Establish the Group Internal Audit function, including its charter, policies, methodologies and audit framework.
• Develop and execute a risk-based annual audit plan covering financial, operational, compliance, IT and manufacturing activities.
• Assess governance, enterprise risk management and internal controls across multiple entities.
• Lead fraud investigations, whistleblowing reviews and compliance assessments.
• Present audit findings, risk insights and recommendations directly to the Board.
• Drive remediation of audit findings and continuous improvement in internal controls.
• Build and develop a high-performing Internal Audit team and coordinate with external auditors and other stakeholders.

Required profile

• Minimum 15 years of progressive experience in internal and/or external audit.
• At least 5 years leading a Group or multi-entity Internal Audit function.
• CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) certification is mandatory.
• Proven experience establishing or transforming an Internal Audit function.
• Strong GCC experience, with exposure to manufacturing or industrial environments.
• Experience within a diversified group, conglomerate or complex corporate environment.
• Excellent stakeholder management and Board-level communication skills.
• UAE-based, with flexibility to travel across the GCC; Arabic is a plus.

Required skills

• CIA certification (mandatory)
• Additional qualifications such as CPA, ACCA, CA, CISA or CFE are advantageous