Job Purpose
Under the general direction of the Postmaster General (PMG), the incumbent manages the internal audit function of the Department by establishing and implementing internal audit programmes, providing independent assurance that internal controls, governance processes and risk management systems are adequate and functioning effectively to accomplish the objectives of the Department in its operations, in accordance with the Financial Administration and Audit (FAA) Act and internationally accepted auditing standards.
Key Responsibilities
Management and Administrative:
- Develops and ensures the implementation of policies and procedures to guide the operations of the Unit within the framework of Government guidelines and international auditing standards (confers with the PMG);
- Participates in the development and implementation of the strategic direction of the Department;
- Leads the development and implementation of the Unit’s Corporate and Operational Plans and Budget;
- Ensures that the objectives of the Internal Unit are clearly defined and communicated to the staff;
- Provides assistance/advice to the PMG on internal audit issues, as requested;
- Develops new policy guidelines in response to changing systems and practices in auditing standards;
- Develops programs to determine if ethical behavior is consistent with international standards and other related Agencies;
- Keeps abreast of trends and developments in internal audit management and recommends relevant adoption where appropriate to increase the effectiveness of the Audit Unit;
- Represents the Unit/Department at meetings/conferences and other functions as required.
- Issues guidelines and instructions to Audit Teams, tailored to each programme or functional area in the organization;
- Ensures the provision of a working environment that supports efficiency and maintains confidentiality of audit processes.
Technical/Professional:
- Leads Internal Audit’s annual risk assessment planning process to develop the Audit Plan and ensures the Plan is responsive to and aligned with the risk profile of the Department;
- Leads the process for the review of the operational effectiveness and efficiency of programmes and activities carried out by the PTD;
- Manages the process for the review of organizational activities in order to determine its compliance with legislative and policy parameters;
- Develops Work Plans in consultation with the Heads of Units and Post Offices and Audit Team;
- Develops one (1) year Audit Plans in consultation with Audit Team Leaders to include the priority level of each assignment, time scheduled and the deployment of staff;
- Oversees the execution of individual audits defined in the Audit Plan ensuring the highest level of service quality and client satisfaction;
- Reviews and validates the working papers of all audits undertaken by the Internal Auditors;
- Issues all Internal Audit Reports ensuring the reports are clear, concise, identifies root causes with practical solutions, and ultimately provides value to management;
- Reviews Audits Reports and makes recommendations for changes in processes and procedures;
- Monitors Unit Head responses to Audit Reports to ascertain the level of deficiencies corrected and adherence to internal controls;
- Manages the preparation and submission of final Audit Reports with relevant recommendations and ensures timely submission of documents/information requested from the Unit;
- Monitors audit findings and makes recommendations to ensure that deficiencies are corrected, improved procedures are implemented and internal controls are adhered to;
- Prepares and submits quarterly reports on audits conducted to the Ministry of Finance and Public Service and Audit Committee;
- Provides assurance to management on the reliability of financial reporting and the degree of compliance with organizational policies, procedures and applicable laws and regulations;
- Facilitates and/or participates in the development and implementation of financial and non financial systems for compliance with legislation, regulations and other applicable guidelines;
- Attends Public Accounts Committee sessions or other accountability fora to present audit findings and clarifications, as required.
Human Resource Management:
- Monitors and evaluates the performance of direct reports, prepares performance appraisals and recommends or initiates corrective actions where necessary;
- Participates in the recruitment of staff for the Department and recommends staffing arrangements in keeping with established human resource procedures and policies;
- Provides leadership and guidance to direct reports through effective planning, delegation, communication, training and mentoring;
- Takes steps to address the welfare and development needs of staff in the Unit;
- Makes provisions for direct reports to have adequate and appropriate physical resources to enable them to undertake their duties efficiently and effectively;
- Ensures that direct reports are sensitized to the policies, procedures and regulations of the Public Service/Department;
- Conducts audit staff training;
- Recommends disciplinary action, leave and staffing arrangements for direct reports.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Competencies
Core
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Strategic Vision
- Analytical thinking
- Excellent problem solving and decision-making skills
- Teamwork and co-operation
- Excellent leadership and people management skills
- Excellent interpersonal skills
Technical
- Excellent knowledge and understanding of GoJ administration system, procurement policies and procedures, the Financial Administration and Audit Act and Financial Instructions, GoJ, the Staff Orders and the Public Service Regulations and other applicable regulations;
- Sound knowledge of finance and accounting principles and practices;
- Sound knowledge of general accepted Auditing Standards.
Minimum Required Qualification and Experience
- First Degree preferably in Accounts, Finance, Business Administration, Management or Economics;
- ACCA Fundamentals or equivalent; plus, over five (5) years’ auditing experience and relevant experience in the specialized area;
- Successful completion of relevant government auditing courses and professional audit training would be an asset.
Special Conditions Associated with the Job
- Required to travel island wide
- Possession of a valid Driver’s License and a reliable motor vehicle
Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
