Head of Internal Audit

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Head of Internal Audit to build and lead a modern, co‑sourced internal audit function within a complex, regulated financial services environment. Reporting to the Board Audit Committee and administratively to the Chief Risk Officer, you will provide independent, insight‑driven assurance across the organisation.

Key responsibilities

• Design and implement a co‑sourced internal audit model, balancing internal capability with external expertise.
• Develop and maintain a risk‑based Internal Audit Plan aligned with the organisation’s risk profile and regulatory obligations.
• Maintain the Internal Audit Charter, methodology and quality frameworks in line with global standards.
• Act as a trusted advisor to the Board Audit Committee and executive leadership, delivering clear reporting on audit outcomes, systemic risks and control effectiveness.
• Lead engagement with regulators (APRA, ASIC) to ensure compliance with relevant requirements.
• Manage relationships with outsourced internal audit partners, challenging scope, findings and ratings to ensure consistency and quality.
• Ensure the right mix of capability, scalability and specialist expertise across the audit portfolio.
• Drive a data‑enabled audit approach, incorporating analytics, continuous monitoring and exploring AI to improve efficiency and insight depth.
• Conduct targeted audits and thematic reviews to complement outsourced coverage.

Required profile

• Significant experience in internal audit within a regulated financial services or payments environment.
• Strong strategic judgement and ability to influence senior stakeholders, including the board.
• Demonstrated capability to manage external audit partners and ensure audit quality.
• Understanding of APRA Fit and Proper requirements and Financial Accountability Regime (FAR) responsibilities.
• Proven track record of delivering risk‑based audit plans and governance oversight.

Required skills

• Analytics and data‑driven audit techniques.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and advanced analytics applied to audit processes.
• Continuous monitoring tools and methodologies.