Risk & Internal Audit Officer

Job Summary

The Risk and Internal Audit Officer shall be responsible for evaluating and improving the effectiveness of risk management, internal control, and governance processes within the company. The role involves conducting risk assessments, internal controls, compliance reviews, and ensuring that policies, procedures, and operations align with regulatory standards and the company's strategic objectives. The ideal candidate will be a detail-oriented professional with a strong background in audit, risk management, and compliance, capable of providing independent assurance to management and the Board.

Key Responsibilities

1. Risk Management

• Identify, assess, and monitor key business risks across all operational areas, including financial, operational, reputational, and compliance risks.
• Develop and maintain a comprehensive risk register and risk appetite framework.
• Coordinate risk mitigation strategies with departmental heads and monitor the implementation of risk action plans.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and scenario analyses to anticipate emerging threats.
• Prepare and present risk reports to management and the Board Audit Committee.

2. Internal Audit & Control Reviews

• Plan, execute, and report on internal audit assignments in accordance with the annual audit plan.
• Evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls, financial systems, and operational processes.
• Perform compliance audits to ensure adherence to company policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct special investigations and forensic audits as directed by management or the Audit Committee.
• Review and assess the reliability and integrity of financial and operational information.

3. Governance & Compliance

• Review and assess the effectiveness of corporate governance structures and practices.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, industry standards, and contractual obligations.
• Monitor changes in regulatory requirements and advise management on necessary adjustments.
• Liaise with external auditors, regulators, and other external assurance providers.

4. Reporting & Recommendations

• Prepare clear, concise, and actionable audit reports with findings, root causes, and recommendations.
• Track and follow up on the implementation of audit recommendations and management action plans.
• Provide advisory support to management on internal control improvements and best practices.
• Maintain a robust system for tracking audit issues and ensuring timely resolution.

5. Fraud & Ethics

• Support the development and implementation of anti-fraud policies and whistleblower mechanisms.
• Investigate allegations of fraud, misconduct, or policy violations.
• Promote a strong ethical culture and awareness of internal controls across the organization.

6. Stakeholder Engagement

• Build strong working relationships with department heads, operational teams, and external stakeholders.
• Provide training and guidance to staff on risk management, internal controls, and compliance matters.
• Participate in strategic projects and provide risk advisory input as required.

Qualifications & Experience

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Economics, or a related field.
• Professional Certification is highly preferred: ACCA, ICA (Ghana), CIMA, CPA, CIA (Certified Internal Auditor), CRMA (Certification in Risk Management Assurance), or equivalent.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive experience in internal audit, risk management, or compliance, preferably within the oil and gas, energy, or manufacturing sector.
• Proven experience in conducting risk assessments, audit planning, execution, and reporting.
• Experience working with audit committees and external auditors is a strong advantage.

Technical Skills:

• Strong knowledge of internal audit standards (IIA Standards), risk management frameworks (COSO, ISO 31000), and corporate governance principles.
• Proficiency in audit management software, ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle), and Microsoft Excel.
• Familiarity with Ghana's regulatory environment, including Petroleum Commission regulations, EPA requirements, and tax laws.

Soft Skills:

• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills – ability to present complex findings clearly.
• High integrity, objectivity, and independence.
• Attention to detail and ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Timely completion of the annual audit plan.
• Number and quality of audit recommendations implemented.
• Risk register completeness and accuracy.
• Compliance with statutory and regulatory filing deadlines.
• Reduction in control deficiencies and operational losses.
• Stakeholder satisfaction with audit and risk advisory services.