Gauteng: Chief Audit Executive posted by Salix Recruitment

A proudly South African, JSE-listed financial services group is seeking a Chief Audit Executive to lead the internal audit function at a group level. This role will provide independent, objective assurance to the Board and Audit Committee, strengthening governance, risk management, and internal control frameworks.

The successful incumbent will play a strategic role in shaping the audit agenda, overseeing complex audits across multiple business units, and influencing decision-making at executive and board level within a highly regulated environment.

Expressions of interest are welcomed. Send your CV to .za

Duties:

• Provide independent assurance on governance, risk management, and internal control effectiveness, aligned with the organisation’s strategic objectives.
• Report directly to the Audit Committee on audit plans, findings, and resource requirements, maintaining functional independence.
• Develop and execute a comprehensive, risk-based audit plan covering underwriting, claims, actuarial, investments, IT, cybersecurity, policy administration, and financial reporting.
• Oversee high-quality execution of audits in line with IIA Standards, ensuring clear, actionable reporting and effective follow-up on management actions.
• Lead and develop a high-performing internal audit function, including team management, resource allocation, and adoption of effective audit methodologies and systems.
• Advise senior leadership on risk mitigation, process improvements, and compliance, influencing strategic decision-making while maintaining independence.
• Monitor regulatory compliance and insurance-specific legislative requirements, ensuring audit activities address emerging risks and regulatory changes.
• Champion combined assurance across internal audit, risk, compliance, actuarial, legal, and external audit functions to optimise coverage, reduce duplication, and strengthen governance.

Job Experience & Skills Required:

Qualifications:

• Matric (Grade 12)
• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Auditing, Risk, Finance, or a related discipline.
• Professional certification such as CIA, CA(SA), CISA, CFE, or an equivalent credential.
• Postgraduate degree in Risk, Governance, Auditing, or Business Administration.
• Additional certifications in Insurance (e.g., AIS/ACII), Data Analytics, or IT Audit.

Experience:

• Over 8 years of internal audit experience, including a minimum of 5 years in a senior leadership capacity.
• Significant exposure to insurance operations is highly desirable.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strategic thinking and executive leadership.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• High levels of integrity, independence, and objectivity.
• Ability to influence stakeholders and build strong relationships.
• Clear and effective executive communication.
• Problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Proven ability in leading teams and developing talent.

If you have not had any response in two weeks, please consider the vacancy application unsuccessful. Your profile will be kept on our database for any other suitable roles / positions.