Head of Internal Audit - International Corporate Banking. Job in London LilyLifestyle Jobs

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.

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