Head of Internal Audit - International Corporate Banking in London

London-Based International Corporate Bank is looking to make a vital hire as Head of Internal Audit, leading a small team.

Main Responsibilities & Accountabilities

• Leadership & Strategy: Review the existing audit methodology to develop and execute a risk-based internal audit strategy.
• Prepare and regularly update the annual Audit Plan for submission to London Branch Audit Committee and the Head Office Internal Audit Bureau (IAB) for approval.
• Lead, mentor and manage the Internal Audit team, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Act as the primary liaison with the Board Audit Committee, presenting audit findings and insights.
• Ensure that the External Quality Assessment (EQA) is implemented effectively.
• Provide independent assurance on the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls, governance, and risk management.
• Oversee the delivery of audit engagements across all business areas, with emphasis on key areas including treasury, lending, operations, IT and Compliance.
• Ensure audit work is performed in accordance with professional standards.
• Undertake special investigations at the request of the Audit Committee and/or the CEO.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of remediation actions and track issue resolution.
• Maintain, regularly review and refine relevant audit-related policies and procedures.
• Maintain an up-to-date audit universe for the Bank as the business develops.
• Include high-level review of bank-wide operational policy and procedure manuals as part of the audit work undertaken.
• Consider opportunities to enhance co-operation and interaction with fellow group entities wherever possible.
• Complete mandatory training as required, and undertake other necessary training to ensure an appropriate level of technical knowledge is maintained.
• Oversee the effective deployment of the Internal Audit Management System to maximise benefits.
• Assess emerging risks and adjust audit plans accordingly.
• Maintain strong awareness of UK regulatory expectations (e.g. PRA, FCA requirements).
• Co-ordinate with Compliance, Risk and external auditors to ensure effective coverage and minimal duplication.
• Support regulatory reviews and inspections, as required.
• Build strong relationships with Senior Management and business heads.
• Maintain a good relationship with IAB and ensure that IAB requests are managed on an effective and timely basis.
• Provide constructive challenge and actionable recommendations to improve business processes.
• Communicate complex risk and control issues clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Act as secretary to the London Branch Audit Committee, and facilitate the effective and efficient workings of the committee.
• Work with the Chairman of the Audit Committee to ensure that relevant regulatory regulations are complied with.
• Prepare high-quality audit reports for senior management and the Audit Committee.
• Provide regular updates on audit progress, key findings, risk themes, and other relevant findings.
• Ensure independence and objectivity of the Internal Audit function at all times.

Key Requirements

• Experience: Significant experience in internal audit within banking or financial services; Proven leadership experience, ideally as a Head of Audit or a senior audit leader; Strong knowledge of commercial banking operations, products and risk frameworks; Experience working within a UK regulated environment.
• Qualifications: Professional certification such as CIA, ACA, ACCA, or equivalent; Degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, or a related discipline.
• Skills & Competencies: Strong analytical and risk assessment skills; Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities; High level of integrity, independence, and professional judgement; Ability to influence at Board and Executive level; Strategic thinking combined with hands-on execution capability; Time and staff management skills.
• Desirable: Experience in a foreign bank or international financial institution in London; Familiarity with cross-border regulatory frameworks; Experience interacting directly with regulators; Certain experience in IT and cybersecurity auditing.

Additional Information

• The role is subject to the UK Senior Managers & Certification Regime (SMCR). The individual must demonstrate fitness and propriety in line with regulatory expectations.
• Managing the Team: Recruit and maintain sufficiency and appropriateness of human resources in accordance with agreed plans, and train, develop and lead resources to ensure that targets are met. Manage performance of staff and ensure appropriate training needs are identified.
• Regulated Activities: This section is to be completed for roles that will be covered by the Senior Managers and Certification Regime.

What you’ll get in return: Flexible working options available.