A well-established, multinational bank based in Gabon is seeking a Head of Audit that will be responsible for conducting audits and evaluations of the bank's risk and control environments in conjunction with the Audit team.

In this role, you will be responsible for the implementation of the Country Audit Assurance plan following the bank's IA methodology, understanding the regulatory landscape and key risks associated with the Bank's franchise. The position includes leading, supervising, and developing a medium-sized team of auditors in the cluster to ensure effective audit and regulatory compliance. Working alongside the Chief Country Officer (CCO) maintaining a constructive, solutions-driven relationship as an independent auditor supporting their governance, risk management, and internal control responsibilities.

Key qualifications and experience required for the Head of Audit:

• Fully qualified ACCA, CIA, CPA, ACA, CFA, CISA, CAMS or advanced degrees mandatory
• 8+ Years' professional experience, including 6 years within the banking sector, with at least 2 years at the Assistant General Manager/AVP grade
• Minimum of 5 years in a Senior Audit function role
• Experience in conducting risk-based audits
• Familiarity with risk issue management criteria, tools, and methods is required
• Understanding how to prioritise and address risks and control deficiencies across both the first and second lines of defence is essential

Key duties for the Head of Audit shall include but are not limited to:

• Executing the Country Audit assurance plan according to the bank’s IA methodology
• Proficient in collaboration with global teams, and involvement in integrated internal audit and assurance work
• Understanding regulatory dynamics and risks related to the bank’s operations
• Overseeing team members' work, and identifying ways to improve efficiency and quality
• Delivering high-quality Audit reports, validating Internal Audit and Regulatory issues, and reporting to business monitoring and governance committees on schedule
• Representing the bank's IA function in discussions with Cluster Regulators and meeting regulatory commitments
• Competence in the business aspects of the audit function, as well as specialised knowledge in technology applications, AML, Treasury, and Markets products
• Ensure alignment, strategic coordination, progress monitoring, and effective communication regarding critical priorities
• Working with the IA Quality Assurance (QA) team to address findings and regulatory issues
• Analysing regional audit data with the IA Management Information (MI) team, rectifying issues, and ensuring lasting resolution of errors are key tasks
• Balancing risk in business decisions, focusing on the bank’s reputation, compliance, and ethical conduct
• Identifying and presenting themes related to organisational risks and issues to key stakeholders
• Timely and thorough communication to Audit Committee, CCO, and in-country Management via governance forums and regular updates

Key personal skills:

• Proficient communication skills
• Sound numerical and data analytics proficiency
• Advanced Excel skills
• Strong interpersonal aptitude
• Pragmatic problem solver with forward-thinking abilities
• Willingly challenges the status quo
• Critical thinking is crucial, as the role involves
• Effective leadership qualities
• Proficient in project management
• Demonstrated ability to remain impartial

If you are interested in furthering your career within the Banking sector as a Head of Audit, please get in touch to learn more about an opportunity where you will be skillful in influencing, negotiation, and relationship management.

This opportunity is best suited to a candidate based in Gabon and who is proficient in English.