Internal Audit Manager – Manufacturing/FMCG

Role Overview

This position sits at the heart of the organisation’s assurance function, taking ownership of internal audit engagements from initial scoping through to final reporting. You will work across departments to test the design and effectiveness of internal controls, flag compliance gaps, and translate complex findings into practical recommendations that drive efficiency and reduce risk. Your work directly informs senior management decisions and helps safeguard the integrity of financial and operational processes in a fast-paced FMCG manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Shape the annual audit plan by identifying high-risk areas, defining engagement objectives, and setting realistic timelines that align with business priorities.
• Coordinate with process owners and departmental heads to arrange fieldwork, secure necessary documentation, and ensure minimal disruption to daily operations.
• Lead and supervise audit teams during field assignments, assigning tasks, reviewing workpapers, and ensuring testing procedures are executed in line with professional standards.
• Perform detailed walkthroughs and substantive testing of financial transactions, operational workflows, and IT controls, using data analytics and ERP system queries to support conclusions.
• Document control weaknesses, instances of non-compliance, and operational inefficiencies with clear evidence and root-cause analysis.
• Prepare well-structured audit reports that present findings, risk implications, and actionable recommendations in a concise, persuasive manner for senior leadership.
• Present audit outcomes to management and stakeholders, facilitating discussions around corrective actions and agreeing on realistic implementation deadlines.
• Monitor the status of agreed action plans, conduct follow-up verification reviews, and report residual risks to the audit committee as needed.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, Accounting, Finance, or Economics from a recognised university.
• Professional certification as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA-K) or ACCA, plus a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) designation.
• Membership with the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) or an Information Systems Audit (ISA) qualification is considered an added advantage.
• A minimum of five years of internal audit experience, specifically within the FMCG manufacturing industry.
• Hands-on proficiency in auditing through computerised systems, including strong working knowledge of ERP platforms and Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel and Word.
• Demonstrated ability to analyse complex processes, identify control gaps, and recommend practical, cost-effective improvements.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the confidence to engage senior stakeholders and mentor junior team members.
• Meticulous attention to detail, strong ethical judgment, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively across diverse teams.