Head Internal Audit

Role:

Base location:

What you become a part of:

What to expect:

Internal Audit Strategy:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive internal audit plan by market and activity, aligned with the organizations strategic goals and risk profile.
• Oversee internal audit activities across all operating units, including manufacturing locations, ensuring critical business processes and geographies are covered. Role Description Head, Internal Audit Mumbai, India

Risk Management & Market Risk Identification:

• Identify and assess key organizational risks, including market-specific risks, operational, financial, compliance, and IT-related risks.
• Collaborate with leadership to develop and implement risk mitigation strategies, addressing both market-specific and organizational risks.

Audit Execution:

• Conduct audits in-market and via desk-based reviews to evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of systems, processes, and controls.
• Perform fraud investigations to identify, analyse, and address potential fraudulent activities across the organization.
• Standardize processes and develop SOPs to ensure consistency and compliance across all locations and markets.

Compliance & Governance:

• Ensure adherence to internal policies, procedures, and external regulations across operating units and manufacturing locations.
• Monitor compliance with applicable laws, regulatory requirements, and corporate standards, providing timely recommendations for corrective actions.

Reporting, Remediation & Training:

• Prepare and issue detailed reports on audit findings, risks, and recommendations to the CFO and MD.
• Oversee the implementation of remedial actions to address audit findings and ensure risks are effectively mitigated.
• Provide training and awareness programs to improve organizational compliance and strengthen internal controls.

Fraud Investigation:

• Lead investigations into suspected fraud, ensuring thorough analysis and reporting of findings to senior management.
• Develop preventive measures and internal controls to reduce exposure to fraudulent activities.

Collaboration & Stakeholder Management:

• Partner with cross-functional teams, including manufacturing teams, to understand business operations and provide actionable recommendations for improvement.
• Foster strong relationships with senior leadership, divisional heads, and external auditors to ensure alignment on internal audit objectives.

Team Leadership & Development:

• Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing internal audit team, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous learning.
• Provide training and development opportunities to enhance team capabilities and ensure alignment with organizational goals.

Process Improvement:

• Identify opportunities to optimize processes, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen internal controls across all units, including manufacturing sites.
• Leverage technology and data analytics to improve the quality and efficiency of audit processes.

Essential qualifications, experience and skills:

Qualifications:

• Chartered Accountant (CA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), or equivalent professional certification is required.
• Additional certifications in risk management or fraud detection (e.g., CISA, CFE) are highly desirable.

Experience:

• 15+ years of progressive experience in internal audit, risk management, or compliance, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Strong exposure to multinational organizations or businesses operating in emerging markets, preferably in the pharmaceutical or FMCG sectors.
• Proven ability to lead audits across multiple geographies and functional areas of an organization, including manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution.

Skills:

• Expertise in internal auditing methodologies, risk assessment frameworks, and control evaluation techniques.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to provide actionable recommendations.
• Proficiency in using audit tools and data analytics to enhance audit quality and efficiency.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop high-performing teams