Principal: Internal Audit at Cellulant

JOB DESCRIPTION:

• The Principal Internal Audit will assist the Group Head of Internal Audit in providing assurance on the effectiveness of controls in place to address risks to the achievement of Cellulant's strategic and operational objectives. In addition, the Principal Internal Audit has responsibility for performing audit engagements across the various functions and markets within Cellulant and ensuring that these are executed to achieve the objectives, timelines and value addition.
• The Principal will be responsible for training and ensuring that the internal audit analysts are up to date with the knowledge and skills required as well as directly supervising, providing training, guidance and mentorship to the Internal Audit Analysts and ensuring that their work is up to the standards of the Group Internal Audit activity.
• The Principal will also work collaboratively with management and the senior leadership team to achieve the company mission and goals and drive the company towards growth and sustainability.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist the Group Head of Internal Audit in preparation and implementation of the risk-based internal audit plan.
• Assist in the development, maintenance, implementation and update/review of the audit charter, audit manual, relevant policies and other frameworks for the Internal Audit Function.
• Develop, recommend, and implement internal audit programs that evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls and test compliance with established policies and procedures.
• Establish effective working relationships within the company and assist management in the understanding and application of and adherence to internal control, risk management, compliance and governance principles.
• Plan, conduct, and review/ control audits, including financial, compliance, and operational audits
• Lead the audit team in conducting audits through the review of physical and electronic records, evaluate the level of compliance with established control policies, processes, procedures, standards, laws and regulations in assigned functional areas/Channels, identify control weaknesses or process improvement opportunities and initiate workable solutions.
• Identify internal controls issues and recommend risk mitigation measures in a timely manner to proactively prevent losses.
• Document and review work papers and audit procedures performed by the internal audit team.
• Prepare draft observations/ findings reports and review all audit work papers prepared by audit staff to ensure quality control, uniformity, and adherence to generally accepted practices.
• Prepare draft audit reports that clearly state the internal audit conclusions and recommendations that are backed by evidence and documented audit processes in working papers/ Audit program
• Conduct follow up audits to monitor management's interventions as per the audit recommendations (both internal and external audit recommendations).
• Coordinate with the external audit team.
• Assist in the Implementation of the internal audit strategic initiatives relating to key responsibilities.
• Review the back up (physical and electronic) of all internal audit materials for easy retrieval and reference.
• Carry out other responsibilities as may be directed by the Group Head of Internal Audit.
• Provide leadership and guidance to the Internal Audit team in order to achieve the company's mission and strategic objectives.
• Ensure all staff are aligned with Cellulant's values.
• Proactively mentor and/or coach to assess opportunities to improve efficiency and maximize impact
• Prepare and conduct a regular (Quarterly) training program for the internal audit team

Technical skills:

• Proven knowledge of auditing standards and procedures, laws, rules, and regulations
• High attention to detail and excellent analytical skills
• Ability to perform under pressure, handle heavy workloads, and meet stringent reporting deadlines
• Must be able to demonstrate a broad technical knowledge and expertise covering conduct of business, corporate governance and regulatory risk and regulatory change matters.
• Proven track record of delivering enhancements to process efficiency.
• Excellent communication skills, ability to communicate and influence at all levels within the company (both verbally and written)
• Experience in working with data and data manipulation tools may also be required
• Ability to work as part of an effective dynamic team.
• Ability to work unsupervised and maintain motivation.

People & Leadership Skills

• Participate in mid-year performance appraisals, annual performance appraisals and monthly 1-1s as per Cellulant performance management cycle.
• Work together to create an environment that fosters teamwork and cooperation
• Attend training sessions offered to continuously improve skills and knowledge.
• Be proactive and self-motivated to achieve set Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
• Recommend new ways of working to continuously improve efficiency, productivity and enhance both our internal and external customer experience.
• Keep updated on any changes in policies, schedules and product knowledge to the team.
• Attend and participate in team meetings

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

Education level:

• Minimum of a university degree, preferably in a business-related discipline from a reputable and recognized institution

Certifications: 

• A certified Public Accountant (CPA). CIA/CISA will be an added advantage. Membership to relevant professional bodies e.g. ICPAK, IIA etc

Experience:

• A minimum of 8 years Internal Audit experience in high growth organizations. Experience in the payments services sector will be an added advantage

Experience that will count in your favor:

• Progressive career growth within Internal Audit
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data.
• Familiarity with SLA standards and best practices in Fintech and similar industries
• Experience in managing service level agreements (SLAs) to ensure high service quality and reliability.