Head of Internal Audit

Job Title: Head of Internal Audit

Department: Internal Audit

Section / Unit: Internal Audit

Location / Workstation: Stabex International Ltd Headquarters, Nansana – Hoima Road, Kampala, Uganda

Reporting Relationships

Reports Functionally to:  Audit and Risk Committee

Reports Administratively to:   Head of Operations

Works Closely With: Heads of Department, Line Managers, Finance Team, Operations Team, and External Auditors

Job Purpose

Reporting administratively to the Head of Operations and functionally to the Audit and Risk Committee, the Head of Internal Audit shall be responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing internal audit engagements, preparing audit reports, and following up on the implementation status of audit recommendations and corrective actions.

The role is responsible for evaluating the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls, governance processes, risk management systems, and compliance with statutory, regulatory, and company policies. The incumbent will provide independent, objective assurance and advisory services aimed at improving operational efficiency, safeguarding company assets, minimizing risk exposure, and strengthening accountability across the organization.

The role requires regular field visits across company operations within Uganda.

Key Responsibilities / Duties / Tasks

Audit Planning and Execution

1. Develop and implement strategic and annual risk-based internal audit plans and budgets for the Internal Audit function.
2. Lead and oversee operational, financial, compliance, and investigative audits in line with Global Internal Audit Standards and company policies.
3. Evaluate and report on the adequacy, effectiveness, and efficiency of internal controls, governance systems, and risk management processes.
4. Review compliance with statutory regulations, company policies, operational procedures, and industry standards, and recommend corrective actions where necessary.
5. Conduct independent assessments of business processes to identify operational gaps, fraud risks, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement.
6. Ensure that internal audit activities are carried out with integrity, objectivity, confidentiality, and professional due care.

Assurance and Advisory Services

1. Provide independent and objective assurance on the effectiveness of governance, risk management, and internal control systems.
2. Advise Management on internal controls, operational efficiencies, compliance matters, and best industry practices.
3. Support Management in identifying, assessing, and mitigating operational and financial risks.
4. Provide advisory support during implementation of new systems, projects, operational processes, and business initiatives.
5. Review and assess fraud prevention mechanisms and recommend improvements where necessary.

Reporting and Follow-Up

1. Prepare and submit timely quarterly and annual audit reports to Management and the Audit and Risk Committee.
2. Prepare clear, concise, and practical audit findings and recommendations to support informed decision-making.
3. Monitor implementation of internal and external audit recommendations and report on status of corrective actions.
4. Present audit findings and risk assessments to senior management and the Audit and Risk Committee as required.
5. Maintain proper documentation and audit working papers in accordance with professional audit standards.

Continuous Improvement and Team Leadership

1. Identify areas for operational efficiency improvement and enhanced internal controls across the business.
2. Develop and improve audit methodologies, tools, templates, and reporting frameworks.
3. Lead, mentor, and develop the Internal Audit team in liaison with the Human Resource Department.
4. Promote risk management, compliance awareness, and internal control best practices across the organization.
5. Keep abreast with emerging audit practices, regulatory requirements, and developments within the oil marketing and retail sectors.

Job Competencies

1. Academic Qualifications and Relevant Work Experience Required

• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field from a recognized institution.
• Professional qualification in CPA(K), CPA(U), ACCA, or equivalent professional accounting qualification is mandatory.
• Minimum of six (6) years’ relevant working experience in Internal Audit, Finance, Risk Management, or Compliance, with at least three (3) years in a senior supervisory or management role.
• Proven experience in retail, FMCG, or multi-site operational environments is required.
• Experience working in an Oil Marketing Company (OMC) shall be an added advantage.

1. Professional Qualifications / Membership to Professional Bodies

• Must be a fully certified member of ICPAU, ICPAK, ACCA, or other recognized professional accounting body.
• Membership to the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA).

Functional Skills

1. Strong knowledge and application of Global Internal Audit Standards.
2. Proficiency in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and computerized audit tools.
3. Excellent analytical, investigative, and data interpretation skills.
4. Strong report writing and presentation skills.
5. Sound understanding of risk management and internal control frameworks.
6. Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple assignments within strict timelines.
7. Strong understanding of operational processes within retail, FMCG, or petroleum industry environments.

Behavioral Competencies / Attributes

1. High level of integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
2. Strong analytical and critical thinking ability.
3. Excellent interpersonal and stakeholder management skills.
4. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
5. Results-oriented and solution-focused mindset.
6. Strong leadership, coaching, and mentoring capabilities.
7. High attention to detail and accuracy.
8. Adaptability and willingness to travel frequently as required.