VP Global Head of Audit

Windsor, UK | Hybrid | PermanentAssurance is getting harder. Controls are increasingly automated, decisions are increasingly influenced by models, and some of the evidence auditors have relied on for decades now looks different. IHG Hotels and Resorts needs a VP Global Head of Audit who can help define and deliver what independent assurance looks like in that environment.IHG has a capable, established Internal Audit function; this role provides senior, Board and Executive-facing leadership.This role leads Global Internal Audit at IHG; a senior, independent assurance function covering the strategic, operational, regulatory, reporting and technology risks that matter most to the business. It is a senior assurance leadership role, grounded in professional judgement, independence and credibility. It also helps lead the continued evolution of audit, as IHG becomes more digital, more data-driven and more dependent on automated controls.IHG is growing and changing quickly: through its brands, its digital platforms, its owner relationships and its global operating model. The Board and Audit Committee place real importance on assurance that helps them understand whether that growth is well controlled, whether risks are being managed well, and where confidence needs to be strengthened. This role is close to that agenda.The role reports to our General Counsel, has direct access to the Audit Committee, sits on the Business Reputation and Responsibility leadership team, and is part of IHG’s broader senior leadership group. This reflects an enterprise-wide remit and the independence, access and standing to provide clear challenge where it matters, supported by evidence and a clear sense of proportion.You will lead a global team and co-source model, working across regions, functions and brands. The role combines the discipline expected of a dual listed-company audit function, and with the judgement needed to focus assurance where it will most improve confidence for management, the Executive Committee and the Audit Committee.What you'll doLead independent, risk-led assurance across the areas that matter most to IHG’s strategy, control confidence and stakeholder trustOwn the audit strategy, methodology and operating model, and the risk-based audit plan that goes to the Audit Committee for approvalSet the direction and standards for audit delivery across strategic, operational, regulatory, financial and technology controls, assessing the design of governance and controls and how they work in practiceProvide the senior independent assurance voice to the Executive Committee and the Audit Committee in a way that is concise, credible and points clearly at what needs to happen nextHold the line on follow-up and closure of management actions, and escalate when confidence is at riskProvide independent challenge over risks arising from digitalisation, automation and AI, including data quality, explainability and reliance on automated controlsBring analytics and automation further into how audits are planned and delivered, to widen coverage and deepen insightContinue to develop the team’s judgement, risk calibration and evidence-led approach, and lead the co-source model with clear expectations and consistent qualityOversee Internal Audit’s role in confidential disclosures and sensitive investigations, including where independent assurance, escalation or Audit Committee visibility is requiredBuild senior relationships across risk, compliance, legal, finance, technology and operations, while preserving management’s ownership of risk and controlWhat you'll bringSignificant senior internal audit leadership experience gained in a large, complex, global organisationCredibility and composure in front of a Board, an Audit Committee and an Executive Committee, and the ability to hold a position when it is challengedA strong understanding of risk management, internal control and assurance expectations in a listed companyThe ability to deliver difficult messages with clarity, evidence and a sense of proportionIntellectual rigour and professional scepticism, alongside the judgement to know which findings matter and which do notPractical experience of data analytics and modern audit techniques, and a clear view on how AI and automation change where assurance is required and how it can be obtainedComfort operating across a matrix organisation and multiple regions, including a real understanding of how cultural differences change the way assurance work landsA broader business outlook alongside audit depth, with the ability to lead through influence, judgement and credibility, not just through methodologyA relevant professional qualification such as CIA, ACA, ACCA or CPAThis is an opportunity to help shape the continued evolution of modern internal audit in a global business: independent, commercially aware, evidence-led and focused on what is relevant to the risks that matter most in a fast-evolving environment.Interested?Appointments at this level rarely start with a formal application. If the role is of interest, or if you would like to understand more before deciding, apply here and we will arrange a confidential conversation.Closing date for applications: 16th September 2026#LI-KW2 #LI-HYBRIDAt IHG, we’ve made a promise. As one of the world’s leading hotel groups, we’re here to deliver True Hospitality for Good. Making our guests and colleagues feel welcome, cared for, recognised and respected – wherever they are in the world. Want to be part of the journey?Who we areAt IHG Hotels & Resorts, we work together to deliver True Hospitality for Good on a global scale. With corporate offices and over 6,000 hotel destinations worldwide, a career at IHG is the perfect way to broaden your horizons. You’ll experience our unique culture and brilliant colleagues who will support and inspire you. With a host of corporate opportunities to choose from, wherever you are on your career journey, and whatever you want to achieve there’s Room for You at IHG.Over recent years, we’ve transformed our company. We have bold ambitions to drive performance and maintain our relentless focus on growth in order to be the hotel company of choice that guests & owners love.We are a hospitality business at our core and value connections and being together helps us foster a unique sense of belonging that also supports productivity. That’s why here at IHG, we give our colleagues flexibility and balance – working in a hybrid way, blending office and remote working collectively. We recognise that every role is different, that’s why leaders work with teams to determine how and when they collaborate.We provide a wide range of benefits designed to help you live your best work life. These include impressive room discounts across our many properties, recharge days and volunteering days throughout the year. Through our myWellbeing framework, we are committed to supporting wellbeing in your health, lifestyle, and workplace. We offer a unique and inclusive culture, where there is always Room for You to belong, grow and make a difference.Our mission is to welcome everyone and create inclusive teams where we celebrate difference and encourage colleagues to bring their whole selves to work. IHG Hotels & Resorts provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regards to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other category protected by applicable laws. We promote a culture of trust, support, and acceptance. Always welcoming different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.Full timePosting Date: 2026-09-02