Internal Auditor at Montaigne Place

Job Objective

• The Internal Auditor will ensure the integrity and reliability of the company’s financial and operational systems by conducting independent audits across all departments, outlets, and business processes.
• The role is responsible for evaluating internal controls, ensuring regulatory and policy compliance, identifying risks, and recommending corrective actions that strengthen governance and enhance efficiency.

Key Responsibilities
Audit Planning & Execution:

• Develop and implement an annual internal audit plan aligned with organizational goals and risk priorities.
• Conduct regular financial, operational, and compliance audits across retail outlets, warehouses, and head office units.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of internal control systems and recommend improvements.
• Perform periodic inventory and cash count verifications to detect and prevent fraud, discrepancies, and wastage.
• Ensure audit processes align with the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing (IPPF).

Financial & Operational Review:

• Review financial and accounting records to ensure accuracy and reporting integrity.
• Examine sales transactions, discounts, and payment processes for policy compliance.
• Verify procurement, logistics, and stock management activities against approved processes.
• Assess operational efficiency and resource utilization across business units.

Risk Management & Compliance:

• Identify potential business risks, control gaps, and process inefficiencies; recommend mitigation strategies.
• Monitor compliance with statutory requirements (tax, pension, regulatory filings) and internal financial policies.
• Support the maintenance of the company’s risk register.
• Review adherence to SOPs and propose process enhancements.

Reporting & Documentation:

• Prepare clear and comprehensive audit reports with findings and actionable recommendations.
• Present audit outcomes to senior management and track implementation of agreed corrective actions.
• Maintain accurate documentation and audit records for compliance and future reference.
• Provide periodic reports to management and the Board Audit Committee, where applicable.

Continuous Improvement & Advisory:

• Advise management on best practices in internal control and financial governance.
• Collaborate with finance, retail, HR, and operations teams to improve control systems.
• Promote ethical practices and accountability across the organization.
• Conduct special investigations and ad-hoc audits as assigned.

Requirements
Minimum Educational Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, or a related field.
• Chartered Accountant (ICAN) – Mandatory OR must be in the final stage of the examination.
• Membership in the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) is an added advantage.

Required Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years relevant experience in Internal Audit, Finance, or Risk Management.
• Experience in luxury retail, FMCG, or multibrand distribution is required.
• Proven track record in conducting financial, operational, and compliance audits.
• Experience in identifying control gaps and implementing process improvements.

Required Competencies:
Knowledge:

• Strong understanding of auditing standards, accounting principles, and internal control frameworks.
• Knowledge of retail operations, POS systems, inventory management, and stock reconciliation.
• Familiarity with risk-based auditing and ERM frameworks.
• Knowledge of Nigerian tax laws, IFRS, and regulatory compliance.

Skills:

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

Attributes:

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

Work Schedule:

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