Head of Internal Audit

The Head of Internal Audit leads York's internal audit function to ensure independent assurance over governance, risk management, and internal controls. The role drives strategic alignment betweencompliance, operational excellence, and assurance standards by:Developing and executing a group-wide risk-based audit plan aligned with business priorities.Providing assurance to the Audit and Risk Committee on governance, risk, and control effectiveness.Overseeing compliance with King IV, JSE, Companies Act, IFRS, and external certification requirements (FSC, IBIS, FMO).Driving continuous improvement through audit innovation, data analytics, and process efficiency.Leading, mentoring, and developing the internal audit team to ensure a high-performance, values-driven culture.Duties & Responsibilities:Internal Audit Planning and ExecutionDevelop and execute the annual risk-based audit plan, approved by the Audit and Risk Committee.Ensure >90% completion of planned audits within schedule and budget.Maintain high-quality audit reports with minimal rework and strong management feedback.Governance, Risk, and Compliance AssuranceEvaluate the effectiveness of internal controls and promote the reduction of repeat findings.Ensure compliance with King IV, JSE, Companies Act, and IFRS.Implement and oversee the Combined Assurance Model to coordinate assurance providers.Stakeholder Engagement and ReportingDeliver accurate and timely reports to the Audit and Risk Committee and Executive Management.Build strong relationships with external auditors, regulators, and certification bodies.Ensure open, transparent communication with management across all business units.External Assurance and Certification ComplianceOversee successful audits by FSC, IBIS, FMO, and other external assurance bodies.Ensure >95% of corrective actions are closed within agreed timelines.Integrate ESG and sustainability audits into the internal audit plan.Continuous Improvement and InnovationImplement audit technology, data analytics, and automation to improve efficiency.Benchmark audit practices against IIA standards and global best practices annually.Ensure >70% of audit recommendations are adopted by management.Team Leadership and DevelopmentLead, mentor, and develop internal audit staff for professional growth and retention.Implement annual training and development plans aligned with IIA requirements.Manage co-sourced internal audit service providers and maintain consistent quality standards.Desired Experience & Qualification:Education & QualificationsGrade 12, postgraduate degree in Auditing, Accounting, Finance, or Risk Management.CA(SA), CIA, or equivalent professional qualification.Membership with the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA).Experience8–10 years' internal audit experience, including 5+ years in a leadership role.Proven exposure to listed company governance and regulatory frameworks.Experience with external assurance bodies (FSC, IBIS, FMO).Sector background in forestry, agriculture, or manufacturing advantageous.Strong stakeholder engagement at senior and Board level.Knowledge & SkillsSound understanding of IIA Standards, King IV, IFRS, and JSE requirements.Proficient in risk management, internal audit methodologies, and assurance models.Skilled in audit software, data analytics, and MS Office.Strong analytical, communication, and strategic thinking ability.AttributesEthical, objective, and values-driven.Strong leadership and people development focus.Decisive, resilient, and detail-conscious.Collaborative and influential across all organisational levels.