Job Description
Job Objective
- The Internal Auditor will ensure the integrity and reliability of the company’s financial and operational systems by conducting independent audits across all departments, outlets, and business processes.
- The role is responsible for evaluating internal controls, ensuring regulatory and policy compliance, identifying risks, and recommending corrective actions that strengthen governance and enhance efficiency.
Key Responsibilities
Audit Planning & Execution:
- Develop and implement an annual internal audit plan aligned with organizational goals and risk priorities.
- Conduct regular financial, operational, and compliance audits across retail outlets, warehouses, and head office units.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of internal control systems and recommend improvements.
- Perform periodic inventory and cash count verifications to detect and prevent fraud, discrepancies, and wastage.
- Ensure audit processes align with the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing (IPPF).
Financial & Operational Review:
- Review financial and accounting records to ensure accuracy and reporting integrity.
- Examine sales transactions, discounts, and payment processes for policy compliance.
- Verify procurement, logistics, and stock management activities against approved processes.
- Assess operational efficiency and resource utilization across business units.
Risk Management & Compliance:
- Identify potential business risks, control gaps, and process inefficiencies; recommend mitigation strategies.
- Monitor compliance with statutory requirements (tax, pension, regulatory filings) and internal financial policies.
- Support the maintenance of the company’s risk register.
- Review adherence to SOPs and propose process enhancements.
Reporting & Documentation:
- Prepare clear and comprehensive audit reports with findings and actionable recommendations.
- Present audit outcomes to senior management and track implementation of agreed corrective actions.
- Maintain accurate documentation and audit records for compliance and future reference.
- Provide periodic reports to management and the Board Audit Committee, where applicable.
Continuous Improvement & Advisory:
- Advise management on best practices in internal control and financial governance.
- Collaborate with finance, retail, HR, and operations teams to improve control systems.
- Promote ethical practices and accountability across the organization.
- Conduct special investigations and ad-hoc audits as assigned.
Requirements
Minimum Educational Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, or a related field.
- Chartered Accountant (ICAN) – Mandatory OR must be in the final stage of the examination.
- Membership in the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) is an added advantage.
Required Experience:
- Minimum of 5 years relevant experience in Internal Audit, Finance, or Risk Management.
- Experience in luxury retail, FMCG, or multibrand distribution is required.
- Proven track record in conducting financial, operational, and compliance audits.
- Experience in identifying control gaps and implementing process improvements.
Required Competencies:
Knowledge:
- Strong understanding of auditing standards, accounting principles, and internal control frameworks.
- Knowledge of retail operations, POS systems, inventory management, and stock reconciliation.
- Familiarity with risk-based auditing and ERM frameworks.
- Knowledge of Nigerian tax laws, IFRS, and regulatory compliance.
Skills:
- Excellent analytical, investigative, and problem-solving skills.
- High attention to detail and accuracy.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, accounting systems, and ERP tools.
- Strong report writing and presentation abilities.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Attributes:
- High ethical standards, confidentiality, and professional integrity.
- Objective, firm, and independent-minded.
- Organized, disciplined, and able to manage multiple audits at once.
- Strong sense of accountability and ownership.
Work Schedule:
- Days: Monday – Saturday.
- Location: Head Office, Lagos (with frequent visits to outlets and warehouses).