ROLE SUMMARY

The Head of Internal Audit and Controls plays a critical role in delivering the organization’s strategic objectives by objectively assessing the adequacy and effectiveness of governance and management of risks, giving an evidence-based opinion on all aspects of governance, risk management, and compliance. The role is responsible for ensuring compliance with relevant laws and policies. The candidate must review and update all the business processes, evaluate the efficiency of the risk management processes; protect the organization against fraud and theft of its assets, and make recommendations on how to improve processes and procedures. Evaluate internal control and make recommendations on how to improve

The ideal candidate for this role will have demonstrated strong leadership skills, be results-oriented, and be able to interpret the corporate vision into growth strategies and profitable operations.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead, oversee, and manage all areas of the Internal Control/Audit department’s day-to-day operations to ensure KPIs are achieved; and build comprehensive and SMART goals for performance and growth.
• Review of operations to ensure compliance with policies and procedures as set by the Board as well as regulatory requirements.
• Evaluate operations or programs to ascertain whether results are consistent with established objectives and goals and whether the operations and programs are being carried out as planned.
• Perform consulting and advisory services related to governance, risk management, and control as appropriate for the organization.
• Investigate deviations and irregularities.
• Report periodically to the Managing Director and Board, on the internal control and audit activity’s purpose, authority, responsibility, and performance relative to its plan
• Design and prepare an Audit Plan by applying a risk-based approach to ensure the organization complies with internal regulations and policies and established protocols.
• Develop and maintain the internal control and audit procedures to ensure that best practice is taken into account and that the established controls audits address specific areas of risk management.
• Undertake the approved internal audit plan in line with agreed procedures.
• Assess the suitability of current internal controls, making suggestions for improvements where needed.
• Prepare reports of audit findings and make recommendations to the business.
• Liaise with internal advisors and examines documentation, including reports, statements, records, and memos to gather information.
• Completes standard paperwork and questionnaires to confirm internal controls.
• Analyses audit results for adequate and effective –corrective actions” for management to improve.
• Evaluate financial documents for accuracy and compliance with federal regulations.
• Coordinate with functional teams for necessary training to the staff for the purpose of improving control adherence.
• Establish and develop relations with senior management and external partners and stakeholders.
• Any other duties and responsibilities which may be required to meet the objectives of MMFB.

QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS & COMPETENCIES

• A degree in any other related field
• Relevant professional qualifications, e.g. ACA, ACCA, CISA, CIA.
• Minimum of 5 years senior management experience within the financial services industry, including Proven extensive and relevant operations management experience.
• Will be required to obtain a Certificate in Microfinance Banking issued by the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN).
• Critical understanding in the establishment and operation of internal control mechanisms.
• Excellent problem-solving skills; analytical and structured in his/her thinking.
• Knowledge of data analytics, reporting and financial planning.
• Communication skills verbal, non-verbal and written.
• Self-starter and very organized, with strong attention to detail.
• Extremely versatile, dedicated to efficient productivity and able to work efficiently and effectively across multiple teams.
• Must be up to date on industry rules, policies and guidelines and ensure compliance.
• A thorough understanding of microfinance performance metrics/indicators and the ability to interpret and process operations data.