Group Internal Audit Manager

iStore is the leading Apple Premium Reseller in Southern Africa and part of Core Group — representing some of the world's most iconic technology brands.

We are a fast-moving, dynamic business where innovation and excellence are part of everyday life. Our teams are passionate about technology and committed to creating outstanding experiences for our customers. At Core Group, you'll find an environment that values initiative, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Purpose of the Role

The Group Internal Audit Manager provides independent, objective assurance and advisory services that support effective governance, risk management, and internal control across the Core Group and its subsidiaries, including iStore.

This role is responsible for leading the planning and execution of group-wide audits, ensuring a consistent approach to risk and compliance, and driving improvements in business processes and control frameworks. A strong emphasis is placed on data analytics and the use of CAATS, preferably IDEA, to deliver efficient, evidence-based audit outcomes.

Key Performance Areas (KPAs) and Outputs

KPA

Key Tasks

Performance Measures & Outputs

Success Indicators

1. Internal Audit Delivery (Group and Retail)

• Develop, implement and maintain a comprehensive Group Audit Programme, covering both store and head office audits.
• Create and maintain a 12-month rolling audit plan across all group entities.
• Conduct detailed, high-quality audits focusing on high-risk operational and financial areas.
• Apply CAATS tools (preferably IDEA) to enhance audit quality and data reliability.
• Draft audit reports with clear, practical recommendations.
• Lead investigations into potential fraud, theft or non-compliance.
• Completion of 33 store audits and 4 corporate audits annually.
• Audit plans executed within agreed timelines.
• Audit reports and findings issued timeously and accurately.
• 95% completion of annual audit plan.
• High-quality, data-driven audit insights delivered.
• Effective implementation of audit recommendations.

2. Risk Management and Compliance

• Maintain and improve the Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) framework.
• Develop and update a comprehensive Group Risk Matrix and GAP analysis.
• Review and update policies and procedures to ensure alignment with best practice.
• Monitor the implementation of corrective actions and follow up on outstanding items.
• Risk Matrix and GAP analysis maintained and up to date.
• Timely resolution of audit findings.
• Policy documentation reviewed annually.
• Reduction in recurring findings.
• Improved control environment maturity.
• Risk management integrated into business operations.

3. Process Improvement and Advisory

• Work with management to address audit findings and improve business processes.
• Support control design and process optimisation initiatives.
• Promote data-led decision making across finance and operations.
• Audit findings translated into sustainable process improvements.
• Implementation of redesigned or automated controls.
• Noticeable improvement in process efficiency.
• Strengthened internal control environment.

4. Stakeholder Engagement and Reporting

• Build strong working relationships with key stakeholders including Finance, Operations and the Audit Committee.
• Present audit results and progress updates in a clear, concise manner.
• Foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Regular engagement and professional reporting to stakeholders.
• Constructive relationships with management teams.
• Positive feedback on audit collaboration and value-add.
• Increased ownership of control responsibilities by business teams.

Qualifications and Experience

• BCom degree in Internal Auditing, Accounting or Finance (postgraduate qualification advantageous).
• Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) or CA(SA) preferred.
• 10 to 15 years' experience in internal audit, preferably within a retail, FMCG or group environment.
• Strong data analytics experience and proficiency in CAATS, ideally with IDEA.
• Solid understanding of risk management, governance, and internal control frameworks.

Core Competencies

• Excellent analytical and data interpretation skills.
• Strong report writing and communication ability.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and sound judgment.
• Able to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Collaborative approach with the confidence to influence at senior levels.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, performance-driven environment.

Key Performance Indicators

• Timely completion of group and store audit plans.
• Closure of audit findings and corrective actions within agreed deadlines.
• Accuracy and completeness of group Risk Matrix and GAP analysis.
• Measurable improvements in process efficiency and control effectiveness.
• Positive stakeholder feedback and demonstrable business value from audit activities.

This is an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the governance and performance of one of Africa's most dynamic technology groups. If you are passionate about data, process improvement, and delivering real business value through audit, we'd like to hear from you.

Job Type: Full-time

Work Location: In person