HEAD OF INTERNAL AUDIT
JOB OBJECTIVE
- The job holder will be responsible for ensuring the integrity and effectiveness of KCA University’s internal controls and compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The Head of Internal Audit will be involved in planning, executing, and overseeing audit activities, reporting findings to the Audit Risk and Compliance Committee, and providing recommendations for improvement.
QDUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Interpret, formulate and disseminate policies, standards and regulations on internal audit management in accordance with existing laws for sound audit practices in the University.
- Provide technical input and oversee internal audit department management relating to financial audits, performance audits, and quality assurance audits in accordance with acceptable standards.
- Spearhead the development and implementation of the overall audit strategy for the University to ensure alignment of the audit operations with the overall University strategic objectives.
- Spearhead the development of new University audit policies and procedures and review existing ones to provide guidelines for implementing the audit strategy.
- Evaluate the University’s compliance with enactments, policies, standards, systems, and procedures and recommend corrective actions.
- Prepare and present audit reports to the University management board and council to ensure appropriate solutions are developed and implemented.
- Review and disseminate quarterly and annual audit reports.
- Prepare and implement the audit budget to ensure the allocation of sufficient resources for implementing the audit strategy in the University.
- Prepare annual Departmental work plans that are aligned with the University’s strategic objectives, ensure work is accomplished within the required time and maintain effective coordination between management and the audit Department.
- Track the implementation of audit recommendations and conduct follow-up audits to ensure corrective actions are taken and systems are effective.
- Develop and review the Internal Audit Charter to ensure quality service delivery and customer satisfaction.
- Undertake special audit at the request of Management and the Council.
- Keep abreast of current trends, regulatory changes, and evolving audit practices to ensure the University remains compliant and proactive.
- Serve as the Secretary to the Audit Risk and Compliance Committee of the University Council.
- Any other duty as may be assigned from time to time.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
- A Bachelor’s degree in Finance or Accounting from an accredited/recognised institution.
- A Master’s degree in Finance or Accounting from an accredited/recognised institution.
- Relevant professional certifications such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA (K) or ACCA Finalist), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certified Information System Auditor (CISA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), or Certified Forensic Accountant (CFA).
- Membership in good standing with professional bodies such as the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK), Institute of Internal Auditors of Kenya (IIA-Kenya) or Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA).
- At least 8 years of work experience, with 2 years working at a senior management level in a university or a similar institution.
OTHER SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES
- Leadership skills.
- Advanced computer literacy skills.
- Ability to manage huge quantities of information.
- Strong analytical and decision-making skills.
- Attention to detail.
- Reliability and resilience.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Honesty and integrity.
- Strong communication (both verbal and written) and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to embrace and embody continuous improvement approaches to the audit process.
- Ability to quickly and succinctly summarise audit findings and trends.