Country Head of Internal Audit

A leading international banking organization is looking to hire a senior Internal Audit leader to head its France audit function. This role will be responsible for leading the audit agenda for the France business, developing the annual audit plan, overseeing risk assessments, managing stakeholder relationships with senior management and the board, and ensuring strong governance, risk management, and control oversight across the business.

Key Responsibilities

• Audit Leadership: Lead the internal audit function for the France business and deliver the agreed audit plan
• Audit Planning: Develop the annual audit plan based on risk assessment and regulatory expectations
• Risk Assessment: Maintain the audit universe and assess key risks across business and control functions
• Coverage: Oversee audits across front office, middle office, back office, risk, compliance, and outsourced activities
• Reporting: Review audit findings, finalize reports, and agree management action plans with stakeholders
• Regulatory Oversight: Stay current on French and broader European regulatory developments impacting the business
• Stakeholder Management: Act as a key audit partner to senior management, governance committees, and control functions
• Team Leadership: Lead, coach, and develop the local audit team while maintaining high execution standards
• Special Reviews: Conduct investigations, special reviews, and other assignments as required
• Continuous Improvement: Enhance audit procedures, methodologies, and working practices in line with regulatory and industry standards

Requirements

• Audit Background: 10+ Years of audit and European market experience is mandatory
• Education: Master’s degree in Audit, Finance, Accounting, Information Systems, or a related field
• Qualifications: CIA, CISA, CRISC, or other relevant audit/risk certifications preferred
• Experience: 10+ years of relevant experience within an international bank or Big 4 environment
• Region: Strong knowledge of French and European business, regulatory requirements, and market practices
• Leadership: Proven people management experience with the ability to lead teams and manage multiple priorities
• Skills: Strong analytical, communication, stakeholder management, and problem-solving skills