Chief Internal Auditor at Meru University of Science and Technology

Job specifications:
For appointment to this position, one must: –

• Have at least fifteen (15) years of relevant experience in a comparable organization, with a minimum of five (5) years served as an auditor at a senior level.
• Have a Bachelor’s Degree preferably in any of the following disciplines: Accounting, Finance or Business Administration (Finance and Accounting option) or related field from a recognized university.
• Have a Master’s degree in any of the following disciplines: Business Administration (Accounting/Finance Option) or related field from a recognized University.
• Be a Certified Public Accountant of Kenya (CPA-K) in good standing or equivalent.
• Be a member in good standing of the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) or an equivalent professional body.
• Have relevant qualifications and expertise in audit, financial management, or accounting with experience and knowledge in risk management.
• Demonstrate high administrative capabilities, people leadership skills and team playing.
• Demonstrate merit and ability as reflected in work performance and results.
• Be proficient in modern computer applications and technologies relevant to auditing and financial management.
• Fulfil the requirements of Chapter six of the Constitution of Kenya 2010.
• Completion of a senior management course lasting at least one month will be an added advantage.

Job Description:

The Chief Internal Auditor (CIA) reports administratively to the Vice-Chancellor and functionally to the Council. The role of CIA is to ensure that the Internal Audit Department contributes effectively to the University’s governance, risk management, and compliance efforts. The main duties will include but not limited to, the following:

• Develop a risk-based Annual Audit Plan in collaboration with management and the Audit Committee to ensure a systematic evaluation of University operations.
• Implement the approved Annual Risk-Based Audit Plan along with any special audit assignments to assess compliance and operational efficiency.
• Conduct investigations into suspected fraudulent activities within the University and provide comprehensive reports to Management and the Council.
• Prepare detailed audit reports to support informed decision-making by the management team and other key stakeholders.
• Advise management on the adequacy, effectiveness, and reliability of the University’s internal control systems.
• Ensure adherence by the University to statutory requirements, policies, and regulatory frameworks governing financial management.
• Facilitate quarterly Audit Committee meetings, ensuring that deliberations are well-documented and recommendations are implemented.
• Conduct follow-up audits to address and resolve issues highlighted in external audit management letters and systems audit reports.
• Recommend appropriate control measures and risk management strategies to address identified risks and enhance operational effectiveness.
• Act as the primary liaison with external auditors to ensure timely resolution and follow-up of audit queries and other matters arising.
• Provide advisory services on the reliability and integrity of financial and other management information systems to ensure their alignment with organizational goals.
• Review specific operational processes or functions as requested by the Audit Committee or management to address emerging concerns or risks.
• Oversee the implementation of the Performance Contract and ensure alignment with University objectives.
• Conduct performance appraisals for staff within the internal audit department to evaluate progress, identify training needs, and foster professional growth.
• Perform any additional duties as specified by the Council to support the strategic objectives of the University.
• Execute any other responsibilities assigned by the Vice-Chancellor, ensuring alignment with the University’s strategic goals.