Lead Audit & IR Risk Assessment

Purpose/Objective

The Lead – Audit & IR Risk Assessment is responsible for executing and overseeing internal audits, compliance reviews, and industrial relations (IR) risk assessments across the GCC and Business Units. The role ensures that governance, labour law compliance, and risk management practices are implemented consistently, while providing actionable insights to mitigate organizational exposure to regulatory, operational, and employee relations risks. The role partners closely with Group Assurance, GCC Legal & HR teams, BU leadership, and external regulators to ensure audit readiness, risk transparency, and compliance with internal and external requirements.

Key Responsibilities of Role

Audit & Compliance Management Execute internal audits and compliance reviews across HR, Legal, and IR processes. Conduct risk-based audits, prepare risk registers, and track corrective action plans. Maintain documentation to ensure audit readiness for both internal and external reviews. IR Risk Assessment & Monitoring Assess risks related to industrial relations, workforce practices, and labour law compliance. Monitor employee relations issues, union dynamics, and grievance handling. Provide insights and recommendations to mitigate potential IR risks in collaboration with BU HR/IR teams. Governance & Reporting Develop and maintain compliance dashboards, audit reports, and risk heatmaps. Report progress, gaps, and exceptions to Tower Lead – LEA and GCC leadership. Track closure of audit findings and ensure accountability on action items. Stakeholder Collaboration Partner with Group Assurance, BU HR/IR, GCC Legal, and Compliance Officers to ensure alignment of audits and risk reviews. Liaise with external auditors, regulators, and consultants as required. Act as the primary coordinator for BU-level audits and IR risk reviews. Process & Continuous Improvement Recommend improvements to policies, processes, and internal controls based on audit findings. Share lessons learned and best practices across GCC and BU teams. Contribute to knowledge repositories on compliance and risk management.

Technical Competencies

Data-Driven Insights: Using data to support HR strategies and initiatives, such as workforce planning and employee engagement programs, is essential.,HR Software Proficiency,Process Improvement: HR professionals should be able to identify areas for improvement in HR processes and implement solutions using technology.,Talent Management Systems (TMS): TMS platforms are used to manage the employee lifecycle from onboarding to performance management and development.

Qualifications and Experience

Internal Stakeholders: Tower Lead – LEA / GCC Assurance Team Group Assurance & Group Legal BU HR & IR Teams GCC Leadership & Functional Heads Compliance Officers and Risk SPOCs External Stakeholders: Statutory & Labour Regulators External Auditors & Assurance Consultants Legal Advisors & IR Consultants Industry Forums & Compliance Networks Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s/Master’s degree in Law, HR, Business Administration, or Commerce. Professional certifications such as CIA (Certified Internal Auditor), CISA, or Labour Law certifications preferred. Work Experience: 8–12 years of experience in audit, compliance, or IR risk management, preferably in a GCC, multinational, or large conglomerate. Strong understanding of labour laws, regulatory compliance, and audit methodologies. Proven track record in conducting audits, managing IR risks, and reporting to senior leadership. Exposure to risk frameworks, compliance dashboards, and audit tools.