Internal Auditor at Montaigne Place

Job Objective

• To ensure the integrity of financial and operational systems by conducting independent and objective audits across all departments, outlets, and business processes.
• The Internal Auditor will evaluate internal controls, assess compliance with corporate policies and regulatory requirements, identify risks, and recommend actionable solutions that strengthen governance and improve business efficiency.

Key Responsibilities
Audit Planning & Execution:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive annual internal audit plan aligned with organizational goals and risk priorities.
• Conduct periodic financial, operational, and compliance audits across retail outlets, warehouses, and head office departments.
• Assess the effectiveness and efficiency of internal control systems and recommend improvements.
• Perform inventory and cash count verifications at outlets and warehouses to detect and prevent fraud, discrepancies, or wastage.
• Ensure audit activities are carried out in accordance with International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing (IPPF).

Financial & Operational Review:

• Review accounting and financial records to ensure accuracy, reliability, and integrity of reporting.
• Examine sales transactions, discount approvals, and payment processes to ensure compliance with internal policies.
• Verify that procurement, logistics, and stock management processes align with company procedures and cost-control measures.
• Assess operational efficiency and resource utilization across outlets and business units.

Risk Management & Compliance:

• Identify potential areas of business risk, fraud, and process inefficiency; recommend risk-mitigation measures.
• Monitor compliance with statutory requirements (tax, pension, regulatory filings) and internal financial policies.
• Support the development and maintenance of a robust risk register for the organization.
• Review adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and recommend process enhancements.

Reporting & Documentation:

• Prepare comprehensive and well-structured audit reports detailing findings, risk ratings, and practical recommendations.
• Present audit outcomes to senior management and follow up on agreed corrective action plans.
• Maintain accurate and organized records of all audit activities for reference and compliance review.
• Provide periodic reports to management and the Board Audit Committee where applicable.

Continuous Improvement & Advisory:

• Advise management on internal control best practices and financial governance.
• Collaborate with finance, retail, HR, and operations departments to develop effective control systems.
• Promote ethical practices and a culture of accountability across all business functions.
• Conduct special investigations and ad-hoc audits as directed by management.

Minimum Educational Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, or a related discipline.
• A Chartered Accountant (ICAN, ACCA) qualification is mandatory.
• Membership with the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) or related professional body is an added advantage.

Required Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years post-qualification experience in Internal Audit, Finance, or Risk Management.
• Previous experience in luxury retail, FMCG, or multibrand distribution environment is required.
• Demonstrated track record of conducting operational, financial, and compliance audits across multiple business units.
• Proven experience in identifying control gaps and implementing process improvements.

Skills:

• Excellent analytical, investigative, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, accounting systems, and ERP tools.
• Effective report writing and presentation skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication abilities.

Required Competencies
Knowledge:

• Sound understanding of accounting principles, auditing standards, and internal control frameworks.
• Knowledge of retail operations, including POS systems, inventory flow, and stock reconciliation.
• Familiarity with risk-based auditing and enterprise risk management frameworks.
• Knowledge of Nigerian tax laws, financial reporting standards (IFRS), and regulatory compliance requirements.

Attributes:

• High ethical standards, confidentiality, and professional integrity.
• Objective, firm, and independent-minded.
• Organized, disciplined, and able to handle multiple audits simultaneously.
• Strong sense of accountability and ownership of deliverables.

Work Schedule:

• Days: Monday – Saturday
• Location: Head Office, Lagos (with frequent visits to outlets and warehouses across locations).