Manager – Internal Audit

Job Purpose

The purpose of this role is to lead and manage the internal audit function across Air Arabia and its subsidiaries, ensuring that the operations, financial & business support processes, and internal controls are effective, compliant with professional standards, and aligned with organizational objectives. The role is crucial for identifying risks, non-conformities, and inefficiencies, providing independent assessments, and recommending corrective measures to safeguard the company’s assets and improve overall performance. Additionally, this role facilitates transparency and accountability by regularly reporting audit findings and recommendations to the Group CEO / Audit Committee, and by coordinating with external auditors when necessary. Ultimately, the role ensures that the organization operates efficiently, ethically, and in accordance with respective regulatory requirements.

Key Result Responsibilities

1.    Develop and maintain the audit manual and policies in line with professional standards (e.g., risk-based auditing).
2.    Propose and execute the annual audit plan, managing its implementation and follow-up throughout the year.
3.    Lead the internal audit team and allocate audit assignments inline with the expected timelines.
4.    Prepare budget estimates for audit operations, considering necessary expenses and manpower.
5.    Develop schedules and methodologies to conduct audits across the network and subsidiaries.
6.    Lead audit operations and investigations, assessing resource investment and identifying gaps or irregularities.
7.    Recommend solutions for non-conformities and ensure corporate financial policies are consistent and compliant with standards.
8.    Ensure effective internal controls on financial operations and partner with the finance team on significant changes in financial systems.
9.    Assess reliability of operational/management information systems’ & tools used, and evaluate performance against standards and objectives.
10.    Develop audit reports, provide post-audit reviews, and present findings and recommendations to the Group CEO and Audit Committee.
11.    Coordinate with external auditors, providing necessary reports and information.
12.    Conduct non-routine audits as needed, reporting findings and recommendations.
13.    Observe and review committee proceedings as required, expressing independent views.
14.    Provides direction, coaching and guidance to team members for their career and professional development.
15.    Creates a conducive working environment to build and sustain a performance driven, engaged, and committed team.
16.    Ensures people management responsibilities are handled effectively in line with company procedures.

Qualifications (Academic, training, languages)

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field. A master’s degree or MBA in a related field would be an added advantage.

Work Experience

–    10 years of progressive experience in internal auditing, financial management, or risk management, with at least 3 years in a management role.
–    Strong experience in conducting audits in large, complex organizations, preferably in the airline industry or a related field.
–    Proven track record of developing and executing audit plans, conducting risk-based audits, and leading audit teams.
–    Experience in working with regulatory requirements, corporate governance, and financial compliance
–    Professional certifications such as Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) would be advantageous
–    Very good business writing and reporting skills.
–    Fluent in English & Arabic.
–    Proves skills in analyzing data, identifying pitfalls, and recommending cost-effective solutions.