Our Client is one of the leading brands in the Quick Service Restaurant Industry in Nigeria. Due to expansion they are in need of an HEAD of INTERNAL AUDIT
LOCATION: Lagos
Job Summary: The Head of Internal Audit is responsible for leading and managing the internal audit function across all outlets and corporate offices of the quick service restaurant chain. This role ensures operational efficiency compliance with internal policies external regulations and the safeguarding of company assets. The role provides independent assurance to management and the board on the effectiveness of internal controls risk management and governance processes.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Develop and implement a comprehensive internal audit strategy and annual audit plan tailored to the QSR industry.
- Lead mentor and manage a team of internal auditors.
- Regularly report audit findings risk assessments and remediation progress to senior management.
- Conduct audits of restaurant operations supply chain inventory cash handling food safety and customer service compliance.
- Ensure standard operating procedures (SOPs) are followed across outlets.
- Evaluate internal controls over financial reporting and ensure accuracy and integrity of financial data.
- Monitor compliance with tax regulations labor laws and relevant industry regulations.
- Investigate fraud theft or financial irregularities.
- Identify key business risks and assess the effectiveness of the risk management framework.
- Provide recommendations for mitigation and continuous improvement.
- Evaluate IT systems and data security controls including POS systems accounting software and digital payment platforms.
- Monitor cybersecurity risk and data protection practices.
- Maintain effective communication and working relationships with external auditors regulatory bodies and internal departments.
- Present audit results and risk assessments in clear actionable formats to executive leadership and the board.
JOB REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor s degree in Accounting Finance Business Administration or related field.
- Professional certification is required.
- Minimum of 8 10 years of progressive internal audit experience preferably in the food & beverage retail or QSR industry.
- At least 3 years in a leadership or managerial role in internal audit.
- Strong understanding of restaurant operations supply chain and inventory management.
- Deep knowledge of internal auditing standards risk management and corporate governance.
- Excellent analytical problemsolving and decisionmaking skills.
- High integrity and objectivity.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills capable of presenting complex issues to nontechnical audiences.
- Proficiency in audit tools data analytics and ERP/POS systems.