Head of Internal Audit

The Head of Internal Audit will oversee the internal audit function within the apparel or label manufacturing organization. This senior leadership role is responsible for assessing and improving the effectiveness of internal controls, risk management, and governance processes across the business. The individual will provide independent assurance regarding the reliability and integrity of financial and operational information, compliance with laws and regulations, and effectiveness of operational processes.

Key Responsibilities:

Internal Audit Leadership:

• Lead and manage the internal audit department, including a team of auditors, ensuring a comprehensive risk-based audit plan is developed and executed.
• Set the overall strategy, vision, and direction for the internal audit function, aligning with company goals and industry best practices.
• Foster a culture of transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement in audit processes.

Audit Planning & Execution:

• Develop and implement a risk-based annual audit plan focused on key areas of financial, operational, and compliance risks within manufacturing, procurement, and distribution functions.
• Execute audits of business processes, financial statements, and internal controls, particularly in areas such as inventory management, procurement, production, sales, and distribution.
• Ensure audits are conducted in accordance with the approved audit plan, scope, and methodology.

Risk Assessment & Internal Control:

• Identify key risks in business processes (financial, operational, regulatory, and IT) and ensure controls are in place to mitigate those risks.
• Perform regular risk assessments to identify areas of vulnerability and make recommendations for improvements to safeguard the organization’s assets and operations.

Compliance Monitoring:

• Monitor compliance with relevant local, national, and international regulations specific to the apparel and manufacturing sectors (e.g., labor laws, environmental regulations, import/export laws).
• Ensure adherence to company policies and procedures and recommend corrective actions for any deficiencies.

Reporting & Recommendations:

• Prepare and present detailed reports on audit findings, risk assessments, and proposed recommendations for improvements to senior management, the Audit Committee, and other stakeholders.
• Follow-up on audit recommendations to ensure corrective actions have been implemented and risks mitigated effectively.

Continuous Improvement & Training:

• Recommend improvements to internal processes, controls, and risk management practices based on audit findings and industry best practices.
• Provide guidance and training to staff, department heads, and management on internal controls, compliance, and risk management practices.

Collaboration & Stakeholder Management:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with senior leadership, operational teams, and external auditors to foster collaboration and alignment on risk management priorities.
• Act as an advisor to business units on internal controls, risk management, and operational improvements.

Technology Integration:

• Leverage audit software and data analytics tools to enhance audit efficiency, effectiveness, and accuracy in the manufacturing environment.
• Stay updated on industry trends and emerging technologies that can impact the internal audit function.