Internal Control Officer at HR-EX Consulting

Reports to: MD / CEO

Role Summary

The Internal Control Officer will be responsible for evaluating, strengthening, and monitoring the company’s internal control framework to ensure operational efficiency, financial accuracy, and regulatory compliance within the maritime sector. The ideal candidate is a professional accountant with a strong audit background from a Big 4 firm and hands-on experience assessing risks and controls in complex, fast-paced operational environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, review, and implement internal control policies, procedures, and SOPs tailored to maritime business operations (vessel operations, logistics, port activities, crewing, procurement, etc.).
• Assess the adequacy, effectiveness, and compliance of internal controls across departments.
• Conduct periodic internal control testing and report control weaknesses with actionable remediation plans.
• Ensure proper segregation of duties in operational and financial processes relating to vessel operations, fuel management, maintenance, chartering, and invoicing.
• Identify operational, financial, and compliance risks specific to maritime operations, including offshore services and port-related activities.
• Maintain a risk register and coordinate with department heads to implement mitigation strategies.
• Monitor regulatory changes in maritime operations, safety, procurement, and financial reporting, ensuring company-wide adherence.
• Perform internal audits and spot checks on key financial and operational processes, including voyage expenses, vendor management, inventory, and crew payroll.
• Prepare detailed audit and internal control reports for management review.
• Support external auditors by providing accurate documentation and explanations.
• Recommend process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce downtime, minimize leakages, and ensure compliance within shipping, port operations, and marine logistics.
• Support the automation and digitalization of internal processes such as documentation control, voyage management, procurement workflow, and fleet operations.
• Conduct training sessions for staff on internal controls, compliance, and best practices.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline.
• Professional certification (ACA, ACCA, CPA) required.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of audit experience, preferably with a Big 4 accounting firm.
• Experience in the maritime, logistics, offshore, or oil & gas sector is a strong advantage.
• Strong understanding of internal control frameworks (COSO, SOX principles).
• Proficiency in accounting software and ERP systems.
• Excellent analytical, investigative, and report-writing skills.
• High level of integrity, attention to detail, and strong ethical standards.