Senior Audit Manager - Internal Audit

About the role

A leading UAE main contractor, whose portfolio spans high-rise, infrastructure, hospitality and mixed-use projects, is strengthening its internal audit and governance function. It is looking for a Senior Audit Manager to lead risk-based audits across projects and head office, reporting to the CEO and delivering independent assurance on controls, compliance and value for money.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and carry out the annual risk-based internal audit plan covering projects, head office and subsidiaries
• Lead end-to-end audits: scoping, fieldwork, testing, reporting and follow-up
• Audit live and completed projects, including cost-to-complete, budget control and cash flow
• Review main contracts, subcontracts, variations, claims, extensions of time, payment applications and final accounts
• Assess procurement, subcontractor selection, tendering, approvals, supplier management and conflicts of interest
• Audit plant and equipment, materials management, site stores, labour camps, payroll and manpower costs
• Evaluate internal controls, delegation of authority and policy compliance across the group
• Support enterprise risk management and fraud-risk assessments, and conduct special investigations when required
• Check compliance with UAE regulations, including corporate tax, VAT, labour law and ESG requirements
• Present findings and recommendations to senior management and the Audit Committee, and track actions to closure
• Lead, coach and review the work of auditors and audit seniors
• Work with finance, commercial, project and procurement leaders to improve processes and controls

Required profile

• 10+ years in internal or external audit, including at least 5 years in construction or contracting in the UAE or GCC
• Strong understanding of how a main contractor makes money: project accounting, revenue recognition (IFRS 15), commercial management, subcontract administration and claims
• Professional qualification: CIA, ACCA, CA or CPAB
• Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance or a related subject
• Proven track record of presenting to senior leadership and audit committees
• Excellent written and spoken English

Required skills

• CFE, CISA or CRMA certification
• Knowledge of FIDIC contracts
• Experience with ERP systems (Oracle, SAP or similar) and data analytics tools