About the position
Postion Summary:
The National Research Foundation (NRF) seeks to appoint Head of Internal Audit. The role reports directly to the Chair of the Audit Committee of the NRF Board with administrative oversight from the Chief Executive Officer.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop the annual risk-based internal audit plan for Risk & Audit Committee review and approval
- Oversee the implementation of the approved plan, ensure proper resourcing for implementation of the plan, and adjust the plan as needed in response to changes in the NRF’s business risks, operations, programs, systems, controls and regulatory requirement
- Keep senior management and Risk & Audit Committee apprised of any changes needed on the internal audit plan
- Ensure methodical documentation of work plans, testing results, conclusions, and recommendations
- Ensure follow up on findings and corrective actions
- Provide technical assistance with investigations, special audits, and provide subject-matter expertise as needed
- Remain current on audit and regulatory oversight trends and develop a risk-based approach incorporated into the annual audit plan
- Perform organisation-wide risk assessments to identify potential and significant risks or exposure related to internal controls or compliance with the NRF’s policies and procedures, laws and regulations, sponsored contract and regulatory requirements, efficiency of operations, accuracy of programmatic and financial reporting and provide feedback and recommendations for improvement to managementOversee the work of external auditors on specific audits, as directed by senior management and the Audit Committee, to ensure accuracy and integrity and that the audit work stays within the prescribe guidelines
- Coordinate and assist with the preparation of Audit Committee materials
- Attend quarterly or more frequent Audit Committee meetingsAssists in the development and implementation of training programs for staff regards to internal controls, risk management, and complianceEstablish and assign departmental goals to team members and evaluate their performance
- Responsible for coaching, mentoring, and developing career paths for direct reports
Minimum Qualification:
- Honours Degree / Post Graduate Qualification / Professional Qualification / NQF 8
Minimum Experience:
- Postgraduate qualification in accounting, finance, or related field
- CA/CIS/CISA will be an added advantage
- CIA, CPA, or other professional certification preferred
Experience:
- A minimum of ten (10) years’ experience in auditing, with at least seven (7) years in a managerial role
- Thorough understanding of GAAP and IIA standards
- Proven experience in developing and executing risk-based internal audit plans
Knowledge:
- Excellent analytical skills with the ability to identify and assess areas of potential risk
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to effectively manage and motivate a team of auditors
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to present complex findings and recommendations to executive leadership
- Proficient in using audit software and Microsoft Office suite
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams
The NRF website provides more details on the initiatives and activities Applicants should submit a comprehensive CV by registering and apply online through the NRF Recruitment and Selection Portal. Applications should be accompanied by a letter of motivation indicating the applicant·s suitability for the position. The names and contact details of at least three referees should be provided.
Desired Skills:
- Skilled in applied field of position
- Knowledge to be relevant
- Responsible in performing duties
About The Employer:
The National Research Foundation (NRF) is established by an Act of Parliament and mandated to contribute to national development by supporting, promoting and advancing research and human capacity development, through funding and the provision of the necessary research infrastructure, in order to facilitate the creation of knowledge, innovation and development in all fields of science and technology, including humanities, social sciences and indigenous knowledge; and supporting and promoting public awareness of, and engagement with, science. The NRF is a well-established organisation that is highly networked within the knowledge system, nationally and internationally. It is the principal organisation responsible for promoting the national research enterprise and is the primary public funder of postgraduate students and researchers and provider of research infrastructure in the country. It has well-developed, best practice research evaluation and support systems.
