Head of Internal Audit

The role

The Head of Internal Audit will build and lead the Internal Audit function from the ground up. This person will deliver independent assurance across regulated operations and future regulated entities.

What you will do

• Build and lead the Internal Audit function including charter, methodology, policies, procedures, and governance framework.
• Develop and execute a risk-based Internal Audit Plan.
• Conduct end-to-end audits including planning, risk assessment, control testing, reporting, and remediation follow-up.
• Provide independent assurance across financial, operational, regulatory, and technology risks.
• Leverage data analytics and automation to enhance audit testing.
• Provide independent reporting and insights to the Board.
• Challenge stakeholders constructively and recommend practical improvements.
• Oversee audit findings and remediation.
• Coordinate regulatory and external assurance activities with CBUAE and external auditors.
• Extend audit coverage to new regulated entities.

Required qualifications

• 7+ years of Internal Audit experience.
• Direct, hands-on experience auditing fintech companies.
• Strong understanding of risk-based auditing, internal controls, corporate governance, and the IIA Global Internal Audit Standards.
• Experience operating within CBUAE-regulated environments or comparable financial regulatory frameworks.
• Ability to understand and apply UAE regulatory requirements.
• Hold a relevant professional qualification such as CIA, CPA, ACCA, or an equivalent recognized certification.
• Experience developing audit plans, executing control testing, identifying findings, and communicating results to senior leadership or Board-level stakeholders.
• Ability to establish and operate a function independently.
• Understanding of technology-driven financial services and risks across operational processes, financial crime controls, IT systems, and regulatory obligations.
• Strong analytical skills and interest in leveraging data, technology, and automation.
• Ability to exercise sound professional judgment and prioritize material risks.
• Ability to communicate clearly, challenge constructively, and build effective relationships.

Nice to have

• Previously established or transformed an Internal Audit function within a fintech or high-growth regulated business.
• Personally developed automated audit tests, used SQL, Python, Power BI, or similar tools, or implemented data-driven audit methodologies.
• Introduced continuous auditing or monitoring approaches.
• Audited payment platforms, digital financial products, AML/CFT systems, or technology infrastructure.
• Worked across multiple regulated entities or jurisdictions.
• Known for combining independent judgment, strong technical expertise, and a practical, solutions-oriented approach.
• Demonstrated ability to build effective audit capabilities with lean resources.

Before you apply

• Position is subject to the prior approval of the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE).
• Selected candidate must satisfy all applicable regulatory eligibility, fit-and-proper, and suitability requirements.
• Appointment and commencement of regulated duties is conditional upon obtaining the required CBUAE approval.

About the company

Ziina is a fast-growing fintech.