JOB DETAILS:
The Internal Audit Associate will assist the Internal Audit & Risk Manager in providing assurance on the effectiveness of controls in place to address risks to the achievement of WATU’s strategic and operational objectives. In addition, the incumbent will assist in coordinating risk management, monitoring and driving compliance with regulatory and statutory requirements across all departments/business units.

ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
• Assist in audit planning documentation, conducts walkthroughs, and assesses the internal control environment through control and substantive testing
• Provide high quality, professional day-to-day execution of internal audit engagements and projects in line with firm risk management practices
• Prepare audit testing programs and assessment of the adequacy of the design and operation of the controls associated with the key risks identified
• Assist and support the risk management and Internal audit team on all planned audits, that includes financial, operational, compliance and information technology audits
• Build relationships with auditees and business management on each audit and develop ongoing relationships with key stakeholders in aligned business areas
• Lead discussions with auditees regarding audit observations
• Track and manage reporting timelines and expectations
• Document effective audit procedures and workpapers
• Prepare draft reports that clearly state the internal audit conclusions and recommendations that are backed by evidence and documented audit processes
• Track timely and effective corrective actions taken following audit recommendations
• Maintain back up (physical and electronic) of all internal audit materials for easy retrieval and reference and monitor adherence to document management process within the internal audit department
• Carry out other responsibilities as may be required by the Internal Audit & Risk Manager and the Head of Internal Audit & Risk

KPIs
• Percentage of audits completed vs planned assignments
• Potential operational efficiencies/process improvement/cost savings generated from implementing internal audit and/or risk mitigation recommendations
• Significance of audit findings
• Certifications obtained /number of training hours per year

POSITION SCOPE
Key responsibility
• (i.e., hiring, coaching, scheduling / delegating work, performance reviews)
• Number of direct reports
• (Number of staff supervised)
• None

Total reports (Direct and indirect)
• None

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Education
• (degree/diploma)
• Minimum of a university degree, preferably in a business-related discipline from a reputable and recognized institution

Experience
• A minimum of 1 year of experience in internal or external audit with a reputable organization

Knowledge and skills
(General and technical)
Technical Skills:
• Proven knowledge of auditing standards and procedures, laws, rules, and regulations, risk management frameworks, procedures, and practices
• High attention to detail and excellent analytical skills
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Experience in working with data and data manipulation tools is an added advantage

Behavioral skills:
• Ability to perform under pressure, handle heavy workloads, and meet stringent reporting deadlines
• Ability to work as part of an effective dynamic team.
• Ability to work unsupervised and maintain motivation.
• Maintain the highest standards of professionalism and independence in the execution of duties with the highest level of integrity and quality
• Maintain neat and professional appearance
• Ability to handle sensitive company information and maintain confidentiality.

Other requirements
• (Licenses, certifications, specialized training)
• A 2nd level ACCA or CPA.
• CIA/CISA will be an added advantage

WORKING RELATIONSHIPS
• Internal contacts (and purpose/nature of the relationship)
• Work with departments- in the course of conducting audit reviews

External contacts (and purpose/nature of the relationship)
• None