Senior Auditor – Retail Banking

This role involves planning and executing audits and reviews of ila bank and Group Retail to provide Senior Management with independent, objective feedback on the control framework's design adequacy and operating effectiveness. The role ensures the bank's risk management, control, and governance processes align with the International Professional Practices Framework standards and Group Audit methodology. The Senior Auditor will cover audit responsibilities both locally and in the MENA region, reporting to the Audit Head of ila Bank and Group Retail Banking. Key responsibilities include performing risk assessments, audit planning, and adhering to local regulatory requirements across various risk domains, such as business conduct, credit risk, and financial crime.

Additionally, the role requires close liaison with all organizational levels, Senior Management, External Auditors, and the Central Bank of Bahrain. The Senior Auditor aids in producing an annual audit plan based on risk assessment, aligning with Group Audit methodology and local regulations. They also collaborate with peers to ensure the proper assessment of risks related to intragroup outsourcing. Thorough monitoring of Group Policies, Standards, and staying updated on regulatory developments and emerging risks like cybersecurity and fraud are essential tasks. The Senior Auditor’s responsibilities span the entire audit process, from planning to issue tracking, ensuring that audits provide comprehensive assurance of the bank's risk management and governance practices.

• Reporting to the Audit Head – ila Bank and Group Retail, the job holder will: Perform continuous business monitoring over ila bank’s strategy, performance, new products & services and risk profile.
• Support the preparation of ila bank’s risk-based Annual Internal Audit Plan. 
• Support the delivery of the approved Annual Internal Audit Plan which entails developing risk & control Matrix and testing strategy & Programs, plan the scope of individual assignments, ensure work is captured within the GRC tool, Produce, and discuss audit issues
• Communicate the result of Internal Audit assignments to Senior Management. 
• Maintain adequate records and evidence of the assignments performed, including the evaluations made during assignments, in accordance with professional Internal Audit standards.
• Liaise with the ila bank’s External Audit firm as and when required. 
• Monitor the resolution of Internal Audit issues by the Bank’s Senior Management. 
• Maintain ongoing communication and partnership with peers and the wider Group Audit team as required.
• Conduct ad-hoc reviews and assignments as requested by the Group Chief Auditor, Senior management, or Board Audit Committee.

• As a Third Line role, the individual has responsibility for risk, compliance and control only insofar as they are relevant to the Internal Audit function. To preserve independence of the Internal Audit function, the individual may not make decisions on or undertake risk management or control activities that are the responsibility of the First and Second Lines of Defense. 

• The role is guided by and must comply with all applicable standards set by the Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors reflected on the Group Audit Manual.

• The individual must always maintain their independence and objectivity in the performance of duties. 
• Act in accordance with the Bank’s Code of Conduct and applicable Conduct rules as set by the Regulators. 
• Integrity, due professional care and attention are key attributes. 
• The individual must report material risks and issues identified through the performance of Internal Audit activities to the Senior Management on a timely basis.  Matters regarding inappropriate culture and behaviours will be reported to the Senior Management.   
• Deal with regulators and other competent authorities in an open and cooperative manner. 

• At least 10 years’ Internal Audit experience within the Banking / Financial Services industry, preferably with retail & digital banking products and services (multi-national experience preferred).
• Bachelor’s degree preferably in finance, economics, accounting, banking, auditing, management, or related subjects.
• Professional certification (preferable) such as CIA or working towards this. Post graduate degree and or professional qualifications are desirable.
• Strong understanding of Information & Cyber Security, Personal Data Protection and Operational Resilience
• Advanced knowledge & application of audit methodology
• Solid knowledge of banking, corporate governance, and the 3 lines model
• Excellent spoken and written English language skills
• Proficiency in at least one other ABC business language (Arabic, French,) would be desirable
• Theoretical & practical knowledge and understanding of the operations, structure and supporting Information Technologies of a retail digital bank, the underlying eco-system, including associated risks & regulatory requirements, gained from significant time working within the Banking / Financial Services industry
• Familiar with the regulatory environment under which banks are operating
• Familiar with industry best practices and control frameworks
• Strong communication skills (listening, oral, written and presenting) to enable the explanation and presentation of information in a structured, clear, and concise way
• Ability to communicate and influence colleagues at all levels
• Strong project management skills, using project planning techniques to plan and co-ordinate work effectively
• Ability to work under pressure to tight timescales whilst paying attention to detail
• Strong team player skills and ability to work in a multicultural environment
• Inquisitive personality whilst being pragmatic and objective
• Maintain and demonstrate the highest standards of integrity and resilience.