Head of Internal Audit (UAE National)

About the role

A prominent semi-government organisation in the UAE insurance and healthcare ecosystem is hiring a Head of Internal Audit through a partnership with Intelligent Solutions. This is a senior leadership position reporting to the Audit Committee and executive management, responsible for building and leading an independent, risk-based internal audit function aligned with international standards and UAE regulatory requirements.

Key responsibilities

• Develop, implement and maintain a risk-based internal audit strategy and annual audit plan aligned with organisational objectives and regulatory expectations.
• Lead and oversee all internal audit activities, including operational, financial, IT, compliance and governance audits.
• Provide independent assurance to the Audit Committee and senior management on the effectiveness of internal controls, risk management and governance frameworks.
• Evaluate compliance with UAE regulatory requirements, internal policies and international standards such as IIA Standards and COSO.
• Identify control gaps and emerging risks, ensure timely follow-up and closure of audit findings and management action plans.
• Manage relationships with external auditors, regulators and key internal stakeholders.
• Prepare and present audit reports and executive summaries to the Audit Committee and Board.
• Lead, mentor and develop the internal audit team, and advise senior leadership on governance, risk and control improvements.

Required profile

• UAE National with strong expertise in internal audit, risk and governance.
• Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business administration or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• Professional certification such as CIA, CPA, ACCA or CISA is highly desirable.
• 10-15 years of progressive internal audit experience, with significant exposure to regulated environments (insurance, healthcare, financial services or government/semi-government).
• Proven senior leadership experience, including direct engagement with Boards and Audit Committees.

Required skills

• Strong knowledge of UAE regulatory frameworks, enterprise risk management and internal control systems.
• Excellent leadership, communication and stakeholder management skills.
• High ethical standards, sound judgment and the ability to work independently with authority.