At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and build a modern internal audit function for a dynamic SaaS company.
- Company: Join IRIS Software Group, a leader in innovative software solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, permanent full-time role, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with a focus on technology risks and agile auditing techniques.
- Why this job: Step into a pivotal role with direct exposure to the Audit & Risk Committee.
- Qualifications: 10-15+ years in Internal Audit, ideally in SaaS or fintech environments.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 € per year.
UK Based (travel occasionally required)
Competitive Salary
Permanent Full Time Position
About the Role
IRIS Software Group is establishing its first in-house Internal Audit function following two successful years of a fully outsourced model. As Head of Internal Audit, you will build and lead a modern, insight-led assurance capability across IRIS’s multi-product SaaS portfolio, including accountancy, payroll/HCM, and education, as well as core group functions and processes. This role combines Third Line (Internal Audit) leadership with support from a co-sourced partner providing internal audit, IT audit, and risk expertise, including specialist areas such as Cyber, Cloud, and Data Privacy. This is a strong opportunity for a high-performing No.2 ready to step up into their first Head of role, with direct exposure to the Audit & Risk Committee and a clear mandate to build the function.
Key Responsibilities
- Own and deliver a dynamic, risk-based internal audit plan aligned to strategic objectives, major change, and principal risks, while establishing the Internal Audit Charter, methodology, and quality framework in line with IIA Global Internal Audit Standards.
- Lead end-to-end audits across operational, financial, compliance, product/technology, and change domains, directing co-sourced SMEs where required, and introducing agile, data-enabled auditing techniques to increase coverage and reduce cycle time.
- Report impactful findings to management and the Audit & Risk Committee, driving timely action closure with a root-cause focus, and plan for an External Quality Assessment (EQA) within 3–5 years.
- Develop an analytics roadmap and implement dashboarding (e.g. Power BI) to support continuous auditing, action tracking, audit KPIs, and risk/trend insights.
- Manage the co-sourced model, working with external partners to flex capability (Cyber, Cloud, Data, Privacy, Regulatory), setting SoWs and SLAs, ensuring quality standards, and enabling knowledge transfer.
- Partner with the Second Line to map and enhance financial, operational, IT (including cyber), and compliance controls, promoting control rationalisation, automation, and over time establishing a control testing programme.
- Provide independent assurance over major change programmes (e.g. product launches, cloud migrations, ERP/HRIS upgrades) and support M&A integration reviews in line with the IRIS M&A Playbook.
- Perform or support internal investigations, drawing on co-sourced expertise as required.
- Facilitate risk-based BCM/DR testing and oversee post-incident reviews to capture control learnings across cyber, technology, and operations.
What we're looking for:
Experience
- 10–15+ years in Internal Audit, ideally within SaaS/technology, payroll, or fintech/payments environments.
- Proven track record leading complex audits end-to-end.
- Exposure to technology and cyber risks (hands-on or via SMEs).
- Experience working in co-sourced and high-change environments.
- M&A integration experience desirable.
Qualifications
- Professional: CMIIA/CIA and/or ACA/ACCA.
- Desirable: CISA, CRISC, ISO 27001 Lead Auditor/Implementer; PRINCE2/AgilePM/Scrum.
- Familiarity with IIA Global Standards (2024), ISO 31000, and UK GDPR.
Skills & Attributes
- Clear, confident communicator with strong executive-level presentation skills.
- Builder’s mindset with a pragmatic, outcome-focused approach.
- Strong understanding of current technology risks and ability to direct SMEs effectively.
- Excellent planning, prioritisation, and vendor/contract management skills.
- Independent and confident in challenging where needed, with a collaborative approach.
- Experience working with US regulated companies or within US jurisdiction is highly desirable.
Head of Internal Audit employer: IRIS Software Group
IRIS Software Group is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and professional growth are at the forefront. As the Head of Internal Audit, you will have the unique opportunity to shape a new in-house function, collaborate with industry experts, and drive impactful change within a multi-product SaaS portfolio. With a commitment to employee development and a culture that values insight-led assurance, IRIS provides a supportive atmosphere for those looking to advance their careers while making a meaningful contribution.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Internal Audit
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their products, culture, and recent news. We want you to walk in feeling confident and ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in areas like risk management and technology.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You should be able to clearly articulate your experience and how it relates to the role of Head of Internal Audit. We suggest rehearsing with a friend or in front of a mirror to nail that delivery.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. We recommend mentioning something specific from your conversation to show you were engaged and interested.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Internal Audit
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Internal Audit role. Highlight your experience in leading audits, especially in SaaS or technology environments, and showcase any relevant qualifications like CMIIA or CIA.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your past successes in internal audit and how you’ve tackled complex audits or managed co-sourced teams.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As a Head of Internal Audit, you'll need to communicate effectively with executives. Use your application to demonstrate your clear and confident communication style, perhaps by including a brief example of a successful presentation you've delivered.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at IRIS Software Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key responsibilities of the Head of Internal Audit role. Brush up on your knowledge of IIA Global Standards, risk management, and the specific technologies mentioned in the job description. This will help you speak confidently about how you can build and lead the internal audit function.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience leading complex audits and managing teams. Think about times when you’ve successfully directed co-sourced SMEs or implemented agile auditing techniques. This is your chance to demonstrate your leadership style and how you can drive impactful findings to management.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, like managing a co-sourced model or conducting an external quality assessment. Practise articulating your thought process and decision-making skills in these scenarios, as they’ll want to see how you approach challenges.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Don’t just wait for questions; engage with your interviewers by asking insightful questions about their current internal audit processes and challenges. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can add value right from the start.
