Director of Internal Audit

About RUARUA is a forward-thinking institution for cross-cultural arts education and creative innovation in the Middle East that fosters bold ideas that inspire progress and transform society by cultivating industry and academic collaboration and rethinking creative education, all while creating a space for global ideas to flourish in a culturally inspiring environment.Our VisionTo be an inspiring beacon of knowledge for future generations, integrating culture and arts, empowering students to discover passions and develop talents while fostering creativity and cultural exchange.Our MissionTo cultivate an innovative educational environment in culture and arts, delivering cutting-edge programs that foster cultural and artistic engagement, enriching both the Saudi and global communities.Our AspirationsThe leading cultural university across the Middle East and North Africa.Ranked among top 50 universities worldwide specializing in cultural education.A global hub for cultural education and knowledge exchange.

Key Responsibilities

Strategy and PlanningDrive the design and development of Internal Audit's strategy in collaboration with RUA's Leadership.Set Internal Audit's performance objectives and continuously monitor progress towards realization of objectives.Budget ManagementOversee Internal Audit's budgeting cycle and lead budgeting process.Formulate strategies that result in positive financial impact for Internal Audit and mitigate financial and operational risks.Policies, Processes, and ProceduresDirect the development and oversee the implementation of Internal Audit's policies, systems, processes, procedures and controls so that all relevant procedural/ legislative requirements are fulfilled while delivering high quality and cost-effective results.Oversee escalated non-compliance case resolution in Internal Audit and reduce non-compliance through ensuring the availability and promotion of stipulated policies and procedures.People ManagementParticipate in the identification and recruitment of key talent.Guide, mentor and support direct reports to execute duties according to set policies and processes.Develop individual performance objectives, provide necessary support, evaluate/appraise team and provide regular feedback on performance.Establish a high-performance working environment and promote RUA's values.Internal Audit Strategy and PlanningDevelop and maintain the annual Internal Audit plan based on risk assessments and organizational priorities.Lead Internal Audit scoping, planning, and coordination with business units to ensure focused coverage and timely delivery.Translate Internal Audit findings into actionable recommendations that improve governance, risk management, and internal controls.Report Internal Audit priorities, progress, and results to executive leadership and the Board as required.Internal Audit Execution and AssuranceDirect Internal Audit engagements across financial, administrative, operational, and compliance areas.Review control design and operating effectiveness to identify gaps, inefficiencies, and non-compliance.Oversee Internal Audit fieldwork, evidence evaluation, and conclusion setting to ensure quality and objectivity.Validate that Internal Audit reports are clear, accurate, and supported by sufficient evidence.Compliance, Risk, and InvestigationsOversees compliance-related Internal Audit activity and monitors remediation of agreed actions.Escalate significant control weaknesses, fraud indicators, and regulatory issues to the appropriate authorities and leadership.Coordinate with external accountability bodies and regulatory stakeholders when required.Recommend control enhancements and risk mitigation measures to strengthen organizational resilience.Leadership and Stakeholder ManagementLead and develop the Internal Audit team to sustain professional standards and timely delivery.Build trusted relationships with senior leaders while maintaining independence and objectivity.Communicate Internal Audit insights in a way that supports informed decision-making and accountability.Partner with organizational units to track implementation of Internal Audit recommendations and improvement actions.Skills Requirements:Creativity & AdaptabilityCustomer OrientationCommunication & CollaborationProfessional Maturity

Qualifications

Knowledge And Experience:10+ years of progressive experience in Internal Audit, risk, compliance, or internal control functions, including at least 6 years in a managerial roleStrong knowledge of Internal Audit methodologies, governance frameworks, regulatory compliance requirements, and risk-based Internal Audit planningDemonstrated experience leading Internal audit teams, advising executive leadership, and driving remediation and control improvement actionsEducation And CertificationsBachelor degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Internal Auditing, or a related fieldMaster degree is preferred in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Internal Auditing, or a related fieldProfessional certification such as CPA, CIA, CA, or equivalent is strongly preferredAdvanced Internal Audit, risk, or compliance certifications are an advantageWhy joining RUA:RUA represents a platform for discovery, a space where talent is nurtured, and a gateway for Saudi art and culture to the world. We welcome you to join us on this exceptional journey. Together, we will shape the ambitious cultural future of the Kingdom and inspire the world.As the first of its kind in the MENA region, RUA serves as a center of creativity, knowledge, and innovation, contributing to shaping the future of Saudi Arabia’s cultural ecosystem and creative economy, driving the growth of Saudi Arabia’s cultural sector in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030.