Senior Manager - Internal Audit

About Sapphire (SILZ) LLC

Sapphire operates as a joint venture situated within the Special Integrated Logistical Zone (SILZ) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The company is dedicated to the production of industrial robots that contribute to the advancement of automation and smart manufacturing technologies.

Role Summary

The Senior Manager of Internal Audit will lead the creation and ongoing development of the company's Internal Audit function, delivering unbiased assurance directly to the CEO and Audit Committee. This role encompasses oversight of governance, risk management, internal control systems, and adherence to compliance standards.

Core Responsibilities

• Design and implement the Internal Audit Charter, methodologies, and relevant policies and procedures.
• Develop and oversee a risk-focused annual audit plan for management and Audit Committee endorsement.
• Conduct comprehensive enterprise risk evaluations to pinpoint significant operational, financial, compliance, and strategic risks.
• Supervise and execute audits spanning finance, operations, compliance, IT, and special projects across the organization.
• Assess the adequacy and efficiency of internal controls, governance structures, and risk management practices.
• Identify process inefficiencies and control weaknesses, recommending opportunities for operational enhancement.
• Ensure audit activities comply with the International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) and Institute of Internal Auditors standards.
• Validate follow-up actions on audit findings to confirm resolution and effectiveness.
• Evaluate corporate governance frameworks and organizational decision-making processes.
• Review organizational compliance with laws, regulations, board directives, and internal policies.
• Track emerging risks and propose mitigation strategies.
• Support strengthening of internal control environments and risk culture within the company.
• Report audit plans, findings, and risk insights directly to top management and the Audit Committee.
• Promptly escalate significant control deficiencies, fraud indicators, or compliance issues.
• Maintain audit independence while fostering cooperative relationships with business leaders.
• Advise on process improvements, control design, and governance without compromising audit independence.
• Contribute to the development of fraud risk frameworks, lead investigations of suspected fraud or policy breaches, and recommend corrective actions.
• Drive continuous improvements in audit approaches, incorporating data analytics, automation, and technology-enabled techniques.
• Monitor industry trends and update audit practices to meet regulatory and professional standards.
• Lead and mentor the internal audit team and external auditors as needed, managing resources, budget, and priorities effectively.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related fields; Master's degree is preferred.
• Professional certifications such as CIA, CPA, ACCA, CISA, CRMA or equivalents are highly regarded.
• At least 10 years' progressive experience in internal audit, external audit, risk management, or governance roles.
• Minimum 5 years of leadership experience within large organizations, manufacturing sectors, listed companies, or multinational environments.
• Experience in presenting to executive management, audit committees, or boards is preferred.
• Prior experience in establishing or revamping internal audit functions is advantageous.

Skills & Competencies

• Expertise in risk management and internal control frameworks.
• Strong knowledge of corporate governance.
• Excellent analytical skills and critical thinking.
• Effective stakeholder management and influencing abilities.
• Proficient in audit planning and execution methodologies.
• Awareness of data analytics and technology applied to auditing.
• Skilled in communication and presenting to executive audiences.
• Leadership qualities focused on team development.
• High integrity, autonomy, and sound professional judgment.