Application Open:
Full-Time
Job Purpose:
The Internal Audit Advisor serves as a senior strategic partner to
the Director of Internal Audit, supporting the effective discharge
of the Internal Audit function’s mandate to create, protect, and
sustain organizational value, in alignment with applicable global
standards and local regulatory requirements. The role provides
expert-level advisory across governance, risk management, internal
controls, and organizational transformation initiatives, ensuring
the Internal Audit function delivers impactful, forward-looking
insights that support MBZUAI’s strategic objectives.
The Internal Audit Advisor acts as a trusted advisor to Internal
Audit leadership and senior stakeholders, contributing to the
development and execution of the Internal Audit strategy, audit
plan, and key initiatives, while supporting complex, high-risk, and
cross-functional engagements. The role is responsible for leading
or supporting special assignments, strategic reviews, and
high-priority projects, often requiring deep analysis, sound
judgment, and the ability to navigate ambiguity across diverse
functional and technical areas.
The Internal Audit Advisor collaborates with internal and external
stakeholders to drive alignment, influence decision-making, and
elevate the overall effectiveness and maturity of governance, risk,
and control practices across the organization. The role also
contributes to the continuous advancement of the Internal Audit
function by enhancing methodologies, integrating data analytics and
emerging technologies, and embedding leading practices in areas
such as digital transformation, AI governance, and data-driven
assurance.
Key Responsibilities:
- Act as a senior advisor to the Director of Internal Audit
across all functional, strategic, and operational matters,
providing independent perspectives, critical challenge, and expert
judgment on complex issues.
Lead and deliver special assignments, strategic reviews, and
high-priority initiatives as delegated by the Director of Internal
Audit, often involving sensitive, cross-functional, or high-risk
areas requiring discretion and advanced analytical
capabilities.
Independently manage and execute complex audit and advisory
engagements where required, including scoping, stakeholder
engagement, analysis, and reporting, particularly in areas of
elevated risk or strategic importance.
Support the Director of Internal Audit in the development and
execution of the Internal Audit strategy and audit plan, including
identifying emerging risks, shaping audit coverage, and aligning
with organizational priorities and regulatory expectations.
Review, challenge, and enhance key audit deliverables,
including audit reports, risk assessments, and presentations to
senior management and the Audit & Risk Committee, ensuring
clarity, quality, and impact.
Act as a delegate of the Director of Internal Audit in internal
and external meetings, representing the function with authority and
credibility, and influencing outcomes where required.
Build and maintain strong relationships with senior
stakeholders across the University, acting as a trusted point of
contact for complex matters related to governance, risk, and
internal controls.
Oversee and manage relationships with external service
providers and co-sourcing partners, ensuring quality of
deliverables, adherence to contractual obligations, and alignment
with Internal Audit standards and expectations.
Represent the Internal Audit function and the University in
external forums, including professional networks, regulatory
engagements, and industry events, to promote best practices and
strengthen institutional positioning.
Drive continuous improvement of the Internal Audit function,
including enhancing methodologies, frameworks, and the adoption of
data analytics, automation, and emerging technologies.
Maintain active engagement with industry peers, academic
institutions, and professional bodies, bringing leading practices
and innovative approaches into the Internal Audit function.
Other Duties
- Perform all other duties as reasonably directed by the line
manager that are commensurate with these functional
objectives.
Qualifications and Criteria:
- A bachelor’s degree in a related field, with higher
qualifications preferred.
- Minimum one of the following:
- Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
- Certification in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA)
- Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
- Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)Certified Chief
Audit Executive (cCAE)
Essential :
- A minimum of 12 years of experience in Internal Audit and
related fields, including a minimum of 5 years in managerial
capacity.
- Big 4/Private and Public Sector Experience
- Superior knowledge in Global and Local Internal Audit Standards
and Regulations.
- Experience in reporting to and managing Senior Stakeholders and
Board of Trustees/Audit and Risk Committees.
Preferred :