Head of Audit & Compliance

As Head of Audit & Compliance, you are responsible for leading and managing the organisation’s Audit & Compliance function across our Sri Lankan operations. You will ensure that all facilities meet regulatory, customer and international compliance standards while driving the organisation’s sustainability and ESG objectives. You will oversee audit readiness, certification programmes, workplace health and safety, environmental initiatives and sustainability reporting. You will also be responsible for developing and leading your team, driving continuous improvement and maintaining strong relationships with customers, auditors and certification bodies. Working closely with our production facilities, Human Capital, Quality, Finance and Commercial teams, you will ensure that compliance and sustainability practices are embedded across the organisation, supporting responsible business operations and long-term growth. This position is based across Design Studio's production facilities in Sri Lanka and requires regular travel between sites. Key accountabilitiesLead, manage and develop the audit & compliance team to achieve organizational objectives.Develop and implement the organisation’s certification roadmap, ensuring all required certifications are maintained and renewed on time.Oversee audit readiness across all production facilities, ensuring compliance with customer codes of conduct, labour laws, health and safety regulations and international standards.Plan, coordinate and lead internal and external audits, ensuring timely closure of corrective actions and continuous improvement.Lead the organisation’s health and safety programmes, ensuring workplace risks are proactively identified and effectively managed.Develop and drive the organisation’s sustainability and ESG strategy, including environmental initiatives, carbon reduction and renewable energy programmes.Oversee carbon accounting, sustainability reporting and ESG disclosures, ensuring accurate data collection and alignment with relevant reporting frameworks.Identify opportunities for carbon credits, green financing and other sustainability initiatives that support business objectives.Work closely with customers and internal stakeholders on compliance assessments, ESG questionnaires and sustainability-related requirements.Maintain accurate compliance documentation, audit evidence and sustainability records while promoting a culture of ethical conduct, accountability and environmental responsibility.Knowledge and skillsA minimum of 8 years of experience in audit, social compliance, certifications and/ or sustainability, preferably within the apparel manufacturing industry.A relevant degree or postgraduate qualification in Sustainability, Environmental Management, Compliance or a related discipline.APSCA CSCA or ISO Lead Auditor qualification would be a distinct advantage.Extensive knowledge of customer codes of conduct, labour laws, occupational health and safety regulations and international compliance standards.Strong understanding of ESG reporting frameworks, GHG Protocol, carbon accounting, Higg FEM and ZDHC requirements.Proven experience in managing audits, certification programmes, sustainability initiatives and environmental reporting.Strong leadership, communication and analytical skills, with the ability to manage cross-functional teams and engage effectively with customers, auditors and the Leadership Team (LT).