Unit Head – Internal Control & Internal Audit

About the role

We are looking for a senior leader to head the Internal Control and Internal Audit unit within a regulated pension fund administration environment. The role provides independent assurance on internal controls, governance, risk management and regulatory compliance, reporting to the Managing Director, CEO and Board Audit & Risk Committee.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute a risk‑based annual internal audit plan covering all business units and processes.
• Oversee full audit cycles – planning, fieldwork, testing, reporting and follow‑up – in line with IIA Standards.
• Design, implement and continuously improve the internal control framework based on COSO principles.
• Assess control effectiveness across finance, operations, investments, contributions, benefits administration and IT systems.
• Ensure compliance with PenCom regulations, the Nigerian Pension Reform Act and other statutory requirements.
• Lead fraud risk assessments, investigations and whistle‑blowing mechanisms.
• Prepare and present audit, risk and control reports to executive management and board committees.
• Supervise, coach and develop the internal audit and control team.

Required profile

• Minimum 10 years of experience in internal audit, risk management or internal control, preferably within the pension or financial services sector.
• Proven ability to engage senior stakeholders, regulators and board‑level committees.
• Strong leadership and team‑development capabilities.
• In‑depth knowledge of PenCom guidelines, Nigerian financial regulations and international auditing standards.

Required skills

• Internal audit (IIA Standards)
• Risk management
• Regulatory compliance
• COSO internal control framework
• Fraud investigation and prevention