Group Head – Audit, Internal Control & Operations at Elkris Foods

Job Purpose

• The Group Head, Audit, Internal Control & Operations is responsible for providing strategic leadership and independent assurance over Elkris Group’s audit, internal control, risk management, and operational efficiency across all subsidiaries and business units.
• The role ensures strong governance, regulatory compliance, operational discipline, and value protection while supporting management in improving processes, systems, and performance.

Key Responsibilities
Group Audit & Assurance:

• Develop and implement a Group-wide internal audit strategy aligned with Elkris Group’s objectives.
• Plan and execute risk-based internal audits across all subsidiaries, projects, and functions.
• Review financial, operational, IT, and compliance controls to ensure effectiveness and reliability.
• Prepare and present audit reports with practical recommendations to Executive Management and the Board Audit Committee.
• Follow up on audit findings to ensure timely and effective remediation.
• Coordinate with external auditors, regulators, and consultants as required.

Internal Control & Risk Management:

• Design, implement, and continuously improve a robust internal control framework across the Group.
• Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and standards (e.g. Companies and Allied Matters Act, FIRS, sector-specific regulations).
• Identify operational, financial, compliance, and strategic risks and recommend mitigation measures.
• Lead fraud risk assessments, investigations, and prevention initiatives.
• Promote a strong control culture and ethical standards across the organisation.

Group Operations Oversight:

• Provide oversight and advisory support on operational efficiency, cost control, and process optimisation across subsidiaries.
• Review key operational processes to ensure alignment with Group policies, budgets, and strategic goals.
• Support management in improving productivity, asset utilisation, and service delivery.
• Monitor implementation of operational policies, SOPs, and performance standards.
• Participate in major projects, expansions, and investments from a control and risk perspective.

Governance & Policy Management:

• Develop and maintain Group-wide policies, procedures, and manuals for audit, internal control, and operations.
• Support the Board and Management in strengthening corporate governance practices.
• Ensure clear documentation, accountability, and segregation of duties across the Group.
• Serve as a key advisor to Executive Management on governance and control matters.

Leadership & Stakeholder Management:

• Lead, mentor, and develop the Group Audit, Internal Control, and Operations teams.
• Build effective working relationships with subsidiary CEOs, CFOs, and functional heads.
• Communicate complex audit and operational issues clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Drive continuous improvement and knowledge sharing across the Group.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Effectiveness of internal controls and risk mitigation
• Timely completion of audit plans and closure of audit findings
• Reduction in operational losses, fraud incidents, and control breaches
• Improvement in operational efficiency and cost optimisation
• Quality of governance reporting to Executive Management and the Board.

Qualifications & Experience
Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Economics, or a related field
• Master’s degree (MBA, MSc, or equivalent) is an added advantage.

Professional Certifications (Mandatory or Strong Advantage):

• ACA / ACCA / CPA
• CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) or CISA is an added advantage.

Experience:

• Minimum of 8 – 10 years relevant experience, with at least 5 years at senior management or group level
• Strong background in internal audit, internal control, risk management, and operations
• Experience working across multiple subsidiaries or business units
• Prior experience in diversified groups, professional services, financial services, construction, energy, or trading environments is desirable.

Required Competencies & Skills:

• Strong analytical and investigative skills
• Excellent knowledge of audit standards, internal control frameworks, and risk management
• High ethical standards, independence, and professional judgement
• Strategic thinking with strong attention to detail
• Leadership and people management capability
• Excellent communication, reporting, and presentation skills
• Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities
• Strong understanding of the Nigerian regulatory and business environment.