Key Achievements:
- Led internal audit engagements that improved operational efficiency, reducing process bottlenecks by 30%.
- Identified £150,000 in cost savings, recoverable losses, and control weaknesses for clients.
- Streamlined internal audit documentation and procedures, reducing review errors by 35%.
- Implemented automated audit testing and reporting tools, saving the team 10+ hours per week.
- Mentored and trained junior internal audit staff, improving team performance and technical knowledge.
Duties & Responsibilities:
- Plan, manage, and execute internal audit engagements across financial, operational, and compliance areas.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of internal controls, risk management, and governance processes.
- Conduct audit testing, reconciliations, and verification of client data and processes.
- Prepare internal audit working papers, schedules, and detailed reports for management.
- Identify areas of risk, inefficiency, or non-compliance and provide actionable recommendations.
- Liaise with management and operational teams to obtain documentation and clarify issues.
- Monitor implementation of audit recommendations and management action plans.
- Support risk assessments and internal audit planning processes.
- Provide guidance and support to business units on internal controls and compliance matters.
- Assist in reviewing financial statements and supporting documentation for accuracy and completeness.
- Participate in audits of special projects, IT systems, and corporate initiatives.
- Ensure audits are conducted in accordance with internal audit standards and best practices.
- Supervise and mentor junior internal audit staff, providing coaching and feedback.
- Prepare ad-hoc analysis and reports to support management decisions.
- Maintain confidentiality, integrity, and professionalism in all internal audit activities.
- Coordinate with external auditors and other stakeholders as required.
- Perform analytical procedures to identify unusual trends or potential control gaps.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives in internal audit methodology, tools, and processes.
- Assist in compliance and regulatory reporting as necessary.
- Contribute to business process improvements and risk mitigation strategies across the organisation.
What does a Senior Internal Auditor do?
A Senior Internal Auditor evaluates an organisation's internal controls, operational procedures and risk management framework. They lead audit reviews, identify areas for improvement and provide recommendations that strengthen governance and operational efficiency.
What qualifications do you need to become a Senior Internal Auditor?
Most Senior Internal Auditors hold professional qualifications such as ACA, ACCA, CIA or CIMA together with several years of internal or external audit experience. Knowledge of corporate governance and risk management is highly desirable.
What skills are important for a Senior Internal Auditor?
Key skills include analytical thinking, risk assessment, report writing, stakeholder management and problem-solving. Senior Internal Auditors also need strong communication skills to present findings and influence business improvements across different departments.
What career progression is available for a Senior Internal Auditor?
Many Senior Internal Auditors progress into Head of Internal Audit, Risk Manager, Compliance Director, Finance Director or Chief Audit Executive positions. Their experience also provides opportunities within governance and corporate leadership.
What is the role of a Senior Internal Auditor in risk management?
Senior Internal Auditors help organisations identify operational, financial and regulatory risks before they become significant issues. By reviewing controls and testing business processes, they provide independent assurance that risks are being managed effectively.