Regional Internal Auditor

Position Overview

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is inviting qualified nationals from relevant locations for the role of Regional Internal Auditor. This is a three-year renewable contract position based in Rwanda and Zimbabwe, focusing on providing assurance and advisory services.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Contribute actively to the creation of IITA's risk-based annual internal audit plan.
• Lead all stages of planning audits and advisory projects, including risk assessment at the engagement level, determining focal areas, setting objectives, scope, and audit programs, and establishing evaluation criteria for governance, risk management, and controls.
• Develop engagement-specific risk-based audit programs for review and approval.
• Execute audit procedures and maintain detailed documentation ensuring high quality and supporting audit objectives.
• Draft thorough engagement reports incorporating client feedback.
• Follow up on previously issued audit recommendations.
• Assist in preparing quarterly reports for senior management.
• Participate in or lead special investigations as necessary.
• Ensure ongoing development and consistent application of assurance strategies and methodologies.
• Lead initiatives to implement Internal Audit improvement plans and uphold high standards in audit work.
• Maintain strong relationships with clients and auditees through networking and communication.
• Provide actionable recommendations to management to enhance control environments and risk management.
• Share knowledge and best practices within the team.
• Offer independent advisory services upon authorized requests.
• Coordinate with external auditors and other assurance providers.
• Perform other relevant tasks as assigned by the supervisor.

Qualifications & Competencies

• Bachelor’s degree or Higher National Diploma in Accounting, Finance, or related fields. A Master’s degree is an advantage.
• Minimum of 10 years progressively responsible experience leading various internal audit engagements, including IT audits.
• Possession of professional certifications such as CIA, CISA, CFE, CA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalents.
• Experience in related areas such as enterprise risk management, assurance, risk evaluation, and internal controls is also considered.
• Proven ability to manage and mentor staff.
• Skilled in designing audit processes compliant with IIA Standards.
• Familiarity with professional internal auditing standards and frameworks concerning risk, control, and governance.
• Experience with electronic audit work papers.
• Excellent judgment and interpersonal skills to professionally handle sensitive client areas.
• Ability to conduct a variety of audits for multiple stakeholders effectively.
• Capacity to work under pressure, meet strict deadlines, and multitask efficiently.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English; knowledge of French is an added benefit.

Compensation and Benefits

IITA offers a competitive salary package, supportive benefits, and excellent working environments in a pleasant campus setting.

Application Process

Candidates interested in applying should complete the online application form with a detailed cover letter and CV in Microsoft Word format. The application must include names and email contacts of three professional referees (current/previous supervisor, professional peer) and evidence of the current remuneration package. Applications must be submitted within two weeks of the announcement date.

Additional Information

IITA is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and particularly encourages women to apply. While all applicants will receive acknowledgment, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.