Head of Internal Audit

About the role

The banking institution in Abu Dhabi Global Market is seeking a Head of Internal Audit to lead the third line of defence. Reporting to the Senior Executive Officer, you will build a proportionate, risk‑based and technology‑enabled internal audit function.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the transition from an outsourced model to an in‑house Internal Audit function, managing handover from the external provider.
• Establish and annually review the Internal Audit Charter and methodology in line with FSRA requirements and IIA standards.
• Develop a risk‑based multi‑year audit plan approved by the Board Audit Committee.
• Provide independent review of ICAAP, ILAAP and IRAP, and assurance over capital, liquidity, large exposures, profit‑rate risk and operational risk frameworks.
• Oversee internal Shari’ah review under FSRA Islamic Finance Rules.
• Assure technology governance, core banking, digital channels, cyber security, data management, cloud, change management and AI/ML/ECL models.

Required profile

• Graduate degree with a minimum of 15 years’ experience in internal audit, risk or assurance within banking or a regulated financial institution.
• Professional qualification such as ACA, ACCA, CPA or equivalent; CIA strongly preferred; CISA or AAOIFI Shari’ah audit qualification desirable.
• Proven experience leading an internal audit function reporting to a Board Audit Committee and setting up or insourcing the function.
• Experience engaging with financial regulators; UAE/GCC banking experience preferred, especially with digital and Islamic banking.

Required skills

• CIA, CISA, ACA/ACCA/CPA certifications.
• Knowledge of FSRA Prudential Rulebook, ICAAP, ILAAP, IRAP.
• Expertise in technology governance, cyber security, data management, cloud platforms, AI/ML and ECL modelling.
• Understanding of Shari’ah audit requirements and AAOIFI standards.