Group Internal Auditor at Aspen Pharma Group

Aspen Pharma Group is searching for a suitably qualified candidate to fill in the position of Group Internal Auditor

Purpose of the Role:

To plan and perform effective and efficient internal audits and prepare audit reports to provide feedback to management and executives on the design and effectiveness of processes and controls in place. To work independently without supervision applying a high level of internal audit skills and industry experience in order to identify process risks and assess the adequacy and effectiveness of business processes and controls. Being able to resolve audit findings and conflicts amicably with management in a professional independent manner and detailing areas for improvement taking practicalities into account. Presenting audit findings and reports to business unit heads and executive management. Advise business units on governance best practice and internal control requirements in business process designs. Drive the use of technology in the audit department through implementation of process improvements, data analytics and continuous auditing techniques. Move the department to the next step in audit Digitalisation.

Key Performance Areas:

• Audit planning and engagement scheduling with entity executives and management
• Developing internal audit programs to test the controls relating to the various identified risks including operational, business and financial risks
• To perform risk-based audits in an effective & efficient manner to achieve targets (budgets) per the internal audit plan; other ad-hoc reviews / agreed upon procedure projects; proper filing and cross referencing of audit working papers
• Determine the effectiveness of the controls relating to each of the risks and objectives identified
• Evaluate financial and operational procedures for adequacy of internal controls and provide advice and guidance on control aspects of new policies, systems, processes and procedures
• To ensure that internal audit recommendations are practical and beneficial (using knowledge, research and experience to deliver value-added recommendations); work with management in devising plans (root cause analysis) for the implementation of the internal audit recommendations
• Determine the level of compliance with the organization’s policies, procedures, statutory laws and regulations
• To follow up timely on the implementation of audit recommendations and to effectively manage non-compliance
• Identify opportunities to improve audit procedures and processes through digitalization and use of technology and effectively implement
• Design and implementation of data mining, data analytics and continuous auditing in partnership with the external consultant and facilitate training and skills transfer to inhouse audit team
• Investigate financial misconduct or tip off allegations
• To play a leading role in fostering a culture of risk management and good corporate governance amongst management and staff including completion of internal projects; communication with other departments to create awareness of BCM, Tip-offs, Corporate Governance, Risk Management and Internal Control
• Provide input to the development of the annual internal audit plan
• Prepare audit reports identifying the control deficiencies identified and specific actions required of management to improve the control environment
• Present audit reports and audit findings to management and executives (maintain productive client relationships)
• Resolve disagreements and disputes with management amicably
• Project wrap-up procedures and service level assessment with management

Qualifications:

• B Com or relevant tertiary financial qualification required
• Chartered Accountant (CA) or Certified Internal Auditor required
• SAICA registered (& in good standing), or
• Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
• Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) registered (& in good standing)

Experience and Knowledge:

• Completed articles in an auditing firm
• Internal and external audit experience
• At least 3 years post articles experience in internal auditing
• Project management and management experience required
• Previous experience in financial audits and operational audits
• Forensic audit or fraud investigation experience advantageous
• Audit software knowledge and experience required
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in Internal Audit digitalisation and transformation
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in the design and implementation of audit digitalisation tools (for example data analytics, data mining and continuous auditing)
• Experience in scripting and data extraction and reporting highly desirable
• Experience in the use of continuous auditing techniques highly desirable
• Pharmaceutical industry experience is an advantage
• Computer literacy (particularly Microsoft Office, Teammate or other audit software)
• Analytical thinking
• Confidence and ability to make decisions independently
• Ethics, integrity, objective, trustworthy/ reliability and respectful
• Fast learner and ability understand department and processes of areas being audited
• Excellent oral, written and interpersonal communication skills (interact with senior management/executives)
• Planning and project management skills
• Ability to work under pressure to a deadline
• Ability to travel to various local and abroad destinations
• Administrative skills
• Good leadership skills
• Ability to work independently
• Attention to detail
• Positive attitude and team player
• Benchmark to leading practice to improve business processes to be more efficient and effective (value-add)
• Perform Adhoc reviews / agreed upon procedure projects
• Ability to travel locally and internationally is a requirement
• Knowledge of governance requirements (King IV), laws and regulations
• Updated knowledge of IFRS standards
• Updated knowledge of IIA standards and effective audit skills

Aspen Competencies:

Business:

• Performance Driven
• Make Good Decisions
• Accountability/ Ownership

People:

• Dealing with ambiguity Embrace Change
• Communicate Effectively

Self:

• Contribute Special Expertise
• Take Action with Integrity
• Grow and develop (CPD training)