Head, Internal Audit – Singapore and Brunei

About the role

AIA is looking for a Head of Internal Audit to lead the Internal Audit function for Singapore and Brunei. The role provides independent, objective assurance to the Audit Committee and senior management on the adequacy and effectiveness of governance, risk management and internal controls, and is accountable for a risk-based audit strategy and plan.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the development and ongoing assessment of the risk-based Internal Audit strategy and annual audit plan, considering business strategy, risk profile, emerging risks, regulatory developments and Audit Committee expectations.
• Oversee execution of the audit plan so engagements are planned, scoped, resourced, supervised and delivered in line with the GIA Charter, GIA Manual and professional standards.
• Ensure audit conclusions and ratings are evidence-based, escalate significant matters promptly, and oversee independent validation of issue closure.
• Provide the Audit Committee, Group Head of Internal Audit and senior management with an independent view of governance, risk management and internal controls, including significant and emerging risks and thematic issues.
• Report regularly to the Audit Committee on plan delivery, findings, overdue actions, thematic issues and changes in the risk environment.
• Maintain strong relationships with MAS and other regulators, including responding to enquiries and requests.
• Lead and develop a multi-disciplinary team covering business, technology and data analytics audit, with focus on talent development, succession planning and quality.
• Champion data analytics, automation, continuous auditing and emerging audit techniques.
• Contribute to Group-wide initiatives and collaborate with peer audit leaders and specialist teams.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional qualification in accounting, finance, business or a related discipline.
• CIA, CA, CPA, ACCA or other relevant certifications highly desirable.
• At least 15 years of experience in internal audit, risk, assurance and/or professional services in complex organisations, preferably in insurance or financial services and in a senior leadership capacity.
• Strong understanding of the insurance industry, governance, risk management and internal controls, and of the Singapore financial services regulatory environment.
• Excellent communication, boardroom presence, leadership, judgement and problem-solving skills.