Head of Internal Audit (UAE National)

About the role

The organisation seeks an experienced UAE National to establish and lead an independent internal audit function across a diversified regional group. Reporting to senior governance bodies, the Head of Internal Audit will provide assurance, advisory support, and oversight of risk‑based audits, controls, compliance and enterprise risk management.

Key responsibilities

• Design, implement and maintain an independent internal audit function.
• Develop and execute risk‑based annual and multi‑year audit plans.
• Conduct enterprise‑wide risk assessments covering strategic, financial, operational, technology and governance risks.
• Oversee financial, operational, compliance, governance, cybersecurity and technology audits.
• Evaluate internal controls, policies and key business processes.
• Present audit findings, emerging risks and performance updates to governance committees.
• Monitor remediation actions and validate corrective measures.
• Lead investigations, fraud reviews and special assignments as required.
• Assess governance, compliance, risk management frameworks and technology controls.
• Lead, mentor and develop the internal audit team while ensuring professional standards.

Required profile

• UAE National.
• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Auditing, Business Administration, Risk Management or related field.
• Professional qualification such as CIA preferred; CPA, CA, ACCA, CISA, CRMA or equivalent advantageous.
• Minimum 15 years’ experience in internal audit, assurance or risk management.
• At least 5 years in a senior leadership capacity, reporting to board‑level or audit committee stakeholders.
• Strong background in risk‑based auditing within complex, multi‑entity environments.
• Experience in governance, enterprise risk management, compliance, fraud risk and internal controls.
• Regional experience within the GCC is preferred.

Required skills

• ERP systems
• IT controls
• Data analytics

What we offer

• Competitive package up to 70,000 AED per month, dependent on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits.
• Opportunity to shape a highly visible internal audit function within a diversified business environment.