Head of Internal Audit

About the Role

NextEra is seeking an experienced Head of Internal Audit to lead the internal audit function in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This full-time role focuses on strengthening internal controls and governance, managing risk, and ensuring regulatory compliance within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The Head of Internal Audit will provide independent, objective assurance and advisory services to enhance the company’s operations and risk management, reporting directly to the Board of Directors.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive annual audit plan based on risk assessments, covering key business areas, financial controls, and compliance requirements.
• Oversee the execution of operational, financial, IT, and compliance audits, ensuring adherence to professional standards and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct regular risk assessments to identify and evaluate significant risk exposure, advising management on control measures and collaborating with risk management teams.
• Evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls across business processes and systems, identifying weaknesses and recommending improvements.
• Ensure adherence to corporate governance practices and compliance with KSA regulations, industry standards, and internal policies, particularly within the IT services sector.
• Prepare and present audit reports, including key findings, risks, and recommendations, to the Audit Committee, CFO, and senior management.
• Provide advisory services to management on process improvements, new initiatives, and regulatory changes, while leading efforts to improve audit methodologies and tools.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 15 years of experience in Internal Audit, with at least 5 years in a senior audit leadership role.
• Experience within the IT services or technology sector is preferred.
• Experience working in Saudi Arabia or the Middle East is preferred.
• Professional certification in audit or risk management such as CIA (Certified Internal Auditor), CPA (Certified Public Accountant), or CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) is preferred.

Required Skills

• Strong knowledge of audit methodologies, internal control frameworks, and risk management practices.
• In-depth understanding of KSA regulatory requirements and corporate governance standards, particularly within the IT services industry.
• Proven ability to build effective relationships with senior stakeholders while providing independent and objective insights.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly present audit findings and influence corrective actions.
• Experience with audit management software and data analytics tools to enhance audit effectiveness.

Work Environment

This is a full-time position based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The role involves working closely with various departments and senior leadership to ensure robust internal controls and compliance across the organization.