Head of Audit needed at Emmanuel Bakeries

Objective:

• The Head of Audit will lead the internal audit department, ensuring the company adheres to legal standards, internal policies, and industry best practices, especially in preparation for becoming a publicly listed company.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive internal audit program that addresses financial, operational, compliance, and strategic risks.
• Guide the company in maintaining and improving control systems, with a focus on the requirements for a publicly listed entity.
• Lead, direct, and manage the internal audit team to conduct regular and ad-hoc audits across all departments.
• Report findings and recommendations to the Board of Directors and senior management, ensuring timely corrective actions are taken.
• Coordinate with external auditors and regulatory bodies as needed, ensuring compliance with all financial and operational regulations.
• Oversee the development and implementation of training programs to enhance the audit team’s capabilities and knowledge.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, changes in auditing standards, and new regulations applicable to public companies.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience in an audit leadership role, with a strong understanding of audit methodologies and risk management.
• Excellent knowledge of accounting standards, compliance regulations, and corporate governance, preferably with experience in a publicly listed company or a firm preparing for an IPO.
• Strong leadership, communication, and analytical skills.
• A Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field; a Master’s degree is a plus.
• Professional certifications such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) are preferred.

SKILLS:

• Audit Experience: Strong background in auditing practices and procedures, preferably in the food industry. This includes the understanding of auditing standards, risk assessment, and internal control frameworks.
• Financial Acumen: Ability to analyze financial statements, interpret financial data, and identify areas of potential risk or irregularity in financial reporting.
• Regulatory Compliance: Familiarity with food safety regulations, health and safety standards, and other relevant regulations governing the bakery industry.
• Attention to Detail: A meticulous approach to auditing processes and documentation, ensuring accuracy and completeness in all audit activities.
• Communication Skills: Effective communication skills are crucial for conveying audit findings, recommendations, and reports to senior management and stakeholders. This includes both written and verbal communication skills.
• Leadership Skills: As the Head of Audit, you may lead a team of auditors, so strong leadership skills are essential for managing and motivating team members, delegating tasks, and fostering a positive work environment.
• Problem-Solving Abilities: The ability to identify issues, analyze root causes, and develop practical solutions to address audit findings and improve internal controls.
• Ethical Conduct: Upholding high ethical standards and integrity is paramount in an auditing role, ensuring impartiality, objectivity, and adherence to professional codes of conduct.
• Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in using audit software, data analytics tools, and relevant technology to enhance audit efficiency and effectiveness.
• Risk Management: Understanding of risk management principles and methodologies to assess and mitigate risks across various aspects of bakery operations, including financial, operational, and compliance risks.
• Collaboration Skills: Working closely with other departments within the bakery company to implement audit recommendations, improve processes, and drive continuous improvement initiatives