Head of Internal Audit

Role Overview

This senior position is responsible for shaping and running the internal audit function for a telecoms organisation in Dubai. The role provides independent assurance over governance, risk management, and internal controls, while also helping safeguard revenue, strengthen compliance, and improve operating effectiveness across the business.

Leadership and Audit Strategy

• Create and implement a risk-focused internal audit roadmap that fits both business priorities and regulatory obligations.
• Recruit, guide, and develop a high-performing audit team spanning different markets and functions.
• Serve as a trusted adviser to the Board, Audit Committee, and executive leaders.

Audit Delivery and Assurance

• Plan and deliver the yearly audit programme across financial controls, operational activities, IT and cybersecurity, and telecom network plus OSS/BSS areas.
• Provide independent assurance on governance, risk management, and control effectiveness.
• Manage audits covering network operations, customer processes, billing, and revenue assurance.

Telecom Operations Oversight

• Review the full telecom value chain, including RAN, core, and transmission infrastructure.
• Assess billing, mediation, and rating controls.
• Examine interconnect and roaming processes, as well as digital services and fintech-related platforms.
• Verify adherence to telecom requirements such as spectrum rules, data privacy, and cybersecurity obligations.
• Identify leakage and fraud exposure across systems and business processes.

Risk, Compliance, and Investigations

• Strengthen enterprise risk management practices and frameworks.
• Track compliance with UAE regulations and relevant international telecom standards.
• Lead reviews and investigations into fraud, control failures, and operational breakdowns.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Present audit outcomes, risks, and recommendations to the Audit Committee and Board.
• Coordinate with external auditors, regulators, and compliance teams.
• Influence senior stakeholders to ensure remediation actions and control improvements are completed.

Improvement and Analytics

• Introduce data analytics and technology-enabled audit methods.
• Find opportunities to improve processes, reduce costs, and strengthen controls.
• Help build and maintain a strong organisation-wide risk culture.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate brings extensive internal audit, risk, or assurance experience, along with significant leadership exposure and strong telecom industry knowledge. Experience in multiple countries or emerging markets is especially valuable. A degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related discipline is required, and professional certifications such as CIA, CISA, CPA, or ACCA are preferred. An MBA or an equivalent qualification is an added advantage.

Core Strengths

This role calls for a commercially minded strategist who can communicate effectively at Board level, analyse complex issues, investigate thoroughly, and apply sound professional judgement with strong integrity.