Head of Audit and Quality Assurance [Job Grade G.12] at Agricultural Finance Corporation (AFC)

Job purpose:

• The Head of Audit and Quality Assurance supports the Chief Audit & Quality Assurance Officer in leading the internal audit function of the Agricultural Finance Corporation.
• The role is responsible for planning, coordinating and supervising audit engagements cross departments and units to ensure effective internal controls, compliance with law, regulations and policies, and adherence to established standard.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide executive leadership for integrated internal audit and risk management functions
• Develop and implement comprehensive governance frameworks for the corporation
• Coordinate Board of Directors' oversight responsibilities for audit and risk matters
• Lead strategic planning for audit and risk management aligned with corporate strategy
• Coordinate relationships with regulatory authorities and ensure regulatory compliance
• Lead enterprise-wide governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) transformation initiatives
• Manage strategic relationships with international development partners and investors
• Coordinate crisis management and organizational resilience planning
• Lead implementation of emerging regulatory requirements and international standards
• Develop integrated reporting frameworks for board and stakeholder communication
• Coordinate with CEO and senior management on strategic risk and governance matters
• Lead organizational culture transformation initiatives related to risk and ethics
• Manage budgets and resource allocation for audit and risk management functions
• Coordinate talent development and succession planning for critical audit and risk roles
• Represent the corporation in national policy forums on financial sector governance

Person Specifications:

• For appointment to this grade, a candidate must have:
• Master’s degree in either Accounting, Finance or Business Administration (Finance and Accounting option), or equivalent qualification from a recognized institution;
• Bachelor’s degree in either Accounting, Finance or Business Administration (Finance and Accounting option), or equivalent qualification from a recognized institution;
• CPA (K) or equivalent professional qualification from a recognized institution;
• Professional certification in risk management will be an added advantage
• Membership to Institute of Certified Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) in good standing;
• Membership to Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA).
• A valid practicing license/certificate
• Leadership course lasting not less than four (4) weeks;
• At least Fifteen Years (15) years relevant work experience, three (3) of which must be in a senior management level;

Key Competencies and Skills

• Interpersonal and communication skills
• Attention to detail and critical thinking
• Innovative and resource mobilization skills
• Strategic planning and problem-solving
• Leadership and Management skills
• Familiarity with audit management software and tools.
• Ability to maintain independence and objectivity while contributing to a positive working environment.
• Analytical mindset and a strong understanding of risk management principles.