Explore high-level Director of Internal Audit & Risk Management jobs, a critical senior leadership function at the heart of organizational governance and resilience. Professionals in this role serve as strategic guardians, providing independent assurance and insight to protect and enhance enterprise value. Typically reporting to both senior executive leadership (like the CFO) and the Board's Audit Committee, they bridge operational management and governance oversight, ensuring a robust control environment and a proactive approach to risk. The core mandate involves the strategic ownership and integration of three key pillars: internal audit, enterprise risk management (ERM), and internal controls over financial reporting. A Director in this field is responsible for developing and executing a risk-based annual audit plan, leading a team of auditors, and presenting findings and recommendations to the Audit Committee. Beyond assurance, they design, implement, and embed the organization's ERM framework, working to instill a mature, risk-aware culture across all business units. This includes identifying, assessing, and mitigating strategic, operational, financial, and compliance risks. Furthermore, they often oversee the internal controls framework to ensure compliance with regulations and safeguard assets. Common responsibilities across these jobs include setting departmental methodology and standards, managing a team of audit and risk professionals, and providing strategic counsel to the C-suite and board on governance matters. They act as a trusted advisor, challenging management practices while supporting business objectives. The role demands continuous monitoring of the regulatory landscape and adapting frameworks accordingly. Typical skills and requirements for candidates seeking Director of Internal Audit & Risk Management jobs are extensive. A relevant professional qualification (such as CPA, CIA, or ACCA) is almost universally required, complemented by substantial post-qualification experience. A background in professional audit services or a large, complex corporate environment is highly valued. The role demands exceptional leadership and people management skills to develop a high-performing team. Superior communication, influence, and stakeholder engagement abilities are non-negotiable, as the Director must command respect and credibly interact with senior executives and board members. Strategic thinking, a deep understanding of business processes, and a forward-looking perspective on emerging risks are key differentiators. For those with the expertise to navigate complexity and drive governance excellence, Director of Internal Audit & Risk Management jobs offer a challenging and impactful career at the highest levels of corporate leadership.
