Head of Audit, EMEA recruitment

Summary

The Head of Audit-EMEA is responsible for leading the EMEA Audit Services department and managing multiple audit teams that cover a specific business unit(s) and/or function(s) within the Northern Trust Corporation.  The role is a direct report to the General Auditor and is responsible for overseeing the unit’s planning and execution of audits, performance management process, and recruiting and retention of staff for the EMEA audit teams.  The Senior Audit Manager/Head of Audit-EMEA also is responsible for interacting with Senior and Executive Management, leveraging technical expertise to evaluate risk areas and ensuring that resources are properly aligned to audit these areas.  Additionally, the Senior Audit Manager/Head of Audit-EMEA is part of the Audit Services Management Team that sets the strategic direction for the Corporation’s internal audit function.  

Major Duties

  1. As part of the Senior Audit Leadership/Management Team, leads the Department in establishing and executing  goals and strategies
  2. Interacts and partners with Senior and Executive Management to understand the risks within the organization, significant business changes, and other events that could significantly affect the audit universe and/or plan
  3. Participates in senior-level committees and client meetings, along with presenting to the Corporation’s Audit and Operational Committees as well as the local/regional Audit Committee, Oversight Committee, Legal Entity Boards and Risk Committees
  4. Communicates with external regulators, external auditors, and various risk management committees within the region and wider Corporation as part of the Department’s ongoing continuous monitoring efforts to assess risks and the control environment
  5. Determines staffing needs, makes employment decisions, handles salary administration, and participates in the recruiting process
  6. Provides leadership and guidance to managers and staff, fostering an environment which encourages employee participation, teamwork, and communication
  7. Oversees and manages all audit activities within assigned areas of responsibility.  Establishes an effective risk-based audit program.  Ensures support provided by other audit teams (e.g., information technology, financial control) is coordinated and properly covers the associated higher risk areas
  8. Responsible for the audit team’s adherence to the Corporation’s and Department’s policies and standards, and ensuring work is performed within established timeframes
  9. Responsible for the issuance of audit reports for responsible areas to ensure clear, concise, and timely communication of risks and audit issues to Senior and Executive Management.  Also, performs peer reviews of other Audit Team’s reports when necessary

Knowledge/Skills

Knowledge of auditing in the financial services industry and basic accounting principles usually acquired through an appropriate degree program and related work experience.  Professional certifications (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CPA, CISA, CIA) and/or an MBA along with demonstrated technical abilities in select areas (e.g., accounting, regulatory compliance, etc.) are preferred.  Strong analytical, leadership, and organizational skills are important. 

Experience Required

Generally, substantial auditing experience in a financial institution, or similar public accounting experience in the financial services industry.  Also, candidates should have previous people management experience.