Hybrid Manager – Internal Audit

at Waystone

• Job title: Manager – Internal Audit
• Job type: Full Time
• Experience level: Mid level, Senior
• Salary: Not specified
• Degree requirement: Professional Certificate
• Location requirements: Hybrid, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

About the role

• Internal Audit Compliance Manager at Waystone focusing on delivering audit services for financial clients. Engaging in compliance needs and managing a portfolio of clients in Dubai.

Responsibilities

• Lead Internal Audit engagements for a portfolio of clients, ensuring audits are conducted effectively, efficiently, and in accordance with regulatory and industry standards.
• Develop and execute Internal Audit plans based on clients’ regulatory obligations and risk profiles, identifying key gaps and recommending remediation measures.
• Provide detailed findings and actionable recommendations to clients, ensuring risks are understood and internal controls are implemented appropriately.
• Maintain comprehensive records of all work performed, including supporting documents, checklists, and relevant communications.
• Continuously monitor regulatory changes and incorporate updates into Internal Audit processes to maintain compliance and best practices.
• Lead major Internal Audit projects, including framework development, audit checklists, and engagement proposals for licensed entities across the UAE mainland, Abu Dhabi Global Markets, Dubai International Finance Centre.
• Implement process and system improvements to enhance efficiency, scalability, and quality of audit delivery.
• Identify opportunities to expand Internal Audit services and contribute to business development initiatives.
• Supervise, mentor, and guide team members, providing coaching on Internal Audit and compliance-related work.
• Manage workload distribution, engagement, retention, professional development, and well-being of team members.
• Conduct performance monitoring, reviews, and provide actionable feedback to drive consistent high performance within the team.
• Liaise professionally and independently with clients, external auditors, fund administrators, and regulatory authorities such as Financial Services Regulatory Authority, Dubai Financial Services Authority, Securities and Commodities Authority and Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority, ensuring timely and effective communication.
• Participate in client-facing initiatives, including networking events and business development opportunities, to promote services and expand client relationships.
• Influence operational practices and internal controls by leveraging expertise in regulatory and audit standards.
• Demonstrate deep knowledge of the financial regulatory sector, particularly fund management and payment services, and maintain awareness of relevant jurisdictions.
• Attend trainings, seminars, and external courses to continually enhance professional knowledge and maintain subject matter expertise.
• Lead the development and dissemination of internal and client-facing knowledge materials to strengthen the firm’s compliance and audit capabilities.
• Oversee alignment of finance processes to ensure client payments reflect completion of audit work and engagement terms.
• Undertake additional ad hoc projects or initiatives as required to meet business demands and departmental objectives.

Requirements

• Minimum 3 to 5 years’ experience in financial regulatory compliance in the UAE
• Deep expertise in Internal Audit and regulatory compliance within financial services
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and lead teams with multiple responsibilities
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, including external engagement
• Recognised subject matter expert capable of influencing operational practices and departmental strategy
• Fluent in English (written and spoken)
• Proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams)
• Internationally 3rd level professional qualification required.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Professional development opportunities