Internal Audit Officer Position at Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies

About Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies (MEDS)

Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies (MEDS) is a faith-based health solutions provider established in 1986 through an ecumenical partnership between the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) and the Christian Health Association of Kenya (CHAK). Dedicated to its core mandate, MEDS provides reliable and affordable Health Products and Technologies, Quality Assurance, and Health Systems Strengthening Services. The organization serves clients across Kenya, other regions in Africa, and beyond.

Job Title: Internal Audit Officer Job Level: Mid-level

Job Overview

As an Internal Audit Officer at MEDS, you will play a crucial role in supporting the audit function, ensuring the organization’s internal control framework is robust and effective. Reporting to the Internal Audit Manager, you will collaborate with a dynamic team to conduct risk-based internal audits, provide recommendations for improvements, and contribute to the overall enhancement of the audit process.

Key Responsibilities

1. Review and Enhancement of Internal Control Framework

• Conduct a comprehensive review of the internal control framework.
• Recommend improvements to strengthen internal controls.

2. Development and Execution of Audit Programs

• Collaborate with team members and the supervisor to develop risk-based internal audit programs.
• Execute audit programs, ensuring a thorough examination of relevant processes.

3. Preparation of Audit Reports

• Prepare detailed audit reports highlighting findings and observations.
• Submit reports to the Internal Audit Manager for review.

4. Follow-up Activities

• Conduct follow-up activities to ensure the timely implementation of audit recommendation action plans.

5. Risk Assessment

• Identify and participate in risk assessments of the organization’s processes.
• Ensure the effectiveness of the risk management framework.

6. Continuous Improvement

• Assist the Internal Audit Manager in enhancing the audit process through the introduction of new tools and techniques.

7. Ad-hoc Investigations

• Conduct ad-hoc investigations and reviews as requested by the Audit and Risk Management Committee and/or management.

Job Requirements

Education and Certification

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related business field from a recognized institution.
• Certified Public Accountant (K) or equivalent qualifications.
• Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) qualification is an added advantage.

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in auditing.
• Ability to audit various IT systems and ERPs; experience with Syspro ERP is an added advantage.

Behavioral Competencies and Attitude

• Strong analytical skills.
• High level of integrity.
• Interpersonal communication skills.
• Self-driven and proactive.
• Discretion and confidentiality.
• Investigative mindset.

How to Apply

To apply for the Internal Audit Officer position, please email your written application and CV to hr@meds.or.ke by 19th January 2024. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Please write your application in the English language.

Expert Tips To Be A Successful Applicant for Internal Audit Officer

1. Tailor Your Application: Customize your application to highlight your specific experience in auditing and internal controls. Provide examples of how your skills align with the organization’s needs.
2. Showcase Certifications: Clearly present your certifications, such as being a Certified Public Accountant (K), CISA, or CIA, emphasizing their relevance to the role.
3. Highlight IT Audit Skills: If you have experience with IT systems and ERPs, particularly Syspro ERP, emphasize these skills in your application.
4. Demonstrate Analytical Skills: Use specific examples to showcase your strong analytical skills, illustrating how you have identified and addressed audit-related challenges in previous roles.
5. Illustrate Risk Assessment Experience: Detail your experience in risk assessment and how you have contributed to the effectiveness of the risk management framework in previous positions.
6. Emphasize Continuous Improvement: Highlight instances where you have actively contributed to enhancing audit processes through the introduction of new tools and techniques.
7. Exhibit Investigative Mindset: Provide examples that demonstrate your investigative mindset, showcasing your ability to conduct thorough ad-hoc investigations and reviews.
8. Prioritize Confidentiality: Stress the importance of confidentiality in your previous roles and how you maintained discretion in handling sensitive information.
9. Express Proactiveness: Clearly convey your self-driven and proactive approach to work, underlining your ability to take initiative in auditing tasks.
10. Address Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrate your interpersonal communication skills, as effective communication is crucial in collaborating with team members and presenting audit findings.

SAMPLE COVER LETTER – Internal Audit Officer

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Internal Audit Officer position at MEDS, as advertised. With a Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Certified Public Accountant (K) qualification, and over five years of experience in auditing, I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to your team.

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I successfully led internal audits, contributing to the enhancement of the internal control framework. My experience with IT systems, including Syspro ERP, aligns with the specific requirements of the position.

My certification as a Certified Public Accountant (K) and my proactive approach to continuous improvement make me well-suited for the dynamic environment at MEDS. I am excited about the opportunity to apply my analytical skills, risk assessment experience, and investigative mindset to contribute to the organization’s success.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my skills and experience align with the goals of MEDS.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the role of an Internal Audit Officer at MEDS?

The Internal Audit Officer at MEDS is responsible for supporting the audit function by reviewing and recommending improvements to the internal control framework, developing and executing risk-based internal audit programs, preparing audit reports, conducting follow-up activities, participating in risk assessments, assisting in continuous improvement, and conducting ad-hoc investigations as requested.

2. How can I apply for the Internal Audit Officer position?

To apply for the Internal Audit Officer position, please email your written application and CV to hr@meds.or.ke by 19th January 2024. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Please write your application in the English language.

3. What certifications are required for the Internal Audit Officer role?

The ideal candidate should have a Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related business field, be a Certified Public Accountant (K) or hold equivalent qualifications. Additional certifications such as Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) are advantageous.

4. Is experience with Syspro ERP necessary for this role?

While not mandatory, experience with Syspro ERP is considered an added advantage for the Internal Audit Officer position.

5. How will my application be reviewed?

Applications will be reviewed based on their alignment with the job requirements, including education, certifications, experience in auditing, IT audit skills, and behavioral competencies such as analytical skills, integrity, and interpersonal communication.

6. What is the closing date for applications?

The closing date for applications is 19th January 2024. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

7. Can I apply if I don’t have the recommended certifications?

While possessing the recommended certifications is preferred, candidates with equivalent qualifications and relevant experience in auditing will also be considered.

8. How is confidentiality maintained in the audit process?

Confidentiality is a priority in the audit process, and Internal Audit Officers are expected to demonstrate a high level of discretion in handling sensitive information.

9. What is the level of the Internal Audit Officer position?

The Internal Audit Officer position is at a mid-level, requiring a Bachelor’s degree, relevant certifications, and a minimum of 5 years of auditing experience.

10. How will I be notified if my application is shortlisted?

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted via the email provided in their application.

Possible Internal Audit Officer Interview Questions With Answers

1. Question: Can you describe your experience in conducting risk-based internal audits?

   Answer: In my previous role at [Previous Company], I actively contributed to the development and execution of risk-based internal audit programs. One notable project involved assessing financial processes, identifying potential risks, and implementing controls to mitigate them, resulting in a 20% improvement in risk management effectiveness.

2. Question: How do you stay updated on changes in auditing standards and best practices?

   Answer: I am committed to continuous professional development. I regularly attend seminars, webinars, and conferences related to auditing. Additionally, I am an active member of professional associations, ensuring that I stay informed about the latest industry standards and best practices.

3. Question: Can you provide an example of a challenging audit you conducted and the steps you took to address it?

   Answer: In a previous role, I encountered a complex audit involving discrepancies in financial records. I conducted a thorough investigation, collaborated with relevant departments, implemented corrective measures, and presented comprehensive findings to the management, leading to process improvements and enhanced financial accuracy.
4. Question: How do you ensure the confidentiality of sensitive audit information?

   Answer: Maintaining confidentiality is a top priority for me. I strictly adhere to organizational policies, use secure communication channels, and limit access to sensitive information only to those who need it for the audit process.

5. Question: How do you handle disagreements or resistance when presenting audit findings?

   Answer: I approach disagreements with a collaborative mindset, seeking to understand concerns and providing additional context when necessary. Effective communication is key, and I work towards finding common ground to ensure the successful implementation of audit recommendations.

6. Question: How do you contribute to the continuous improvement of the audit process?

   Answer: I actively seek opportunities to enhance the audit process. This includes introducing new tools and techniques, collaborating with team members to share best practices, and participating in feedback sessions to identify areas for improvement.
7. Question: Describe your experience with IT systems and ERPs, especially Syspro ERP.

   Answer: I have successfully audited various IT systems and ERPs, including Syspro ERP. My experience involves assessing the integrity of financial data, ensuring data security, and providing recommendations for optimizing the use of ERP systems to enhance overall operational efficiency.

8. Question: How do you prioritize and manage multiple audit projects simultaneously?

   Answer: Prioritization is essential, and I use a systematic approach to assess the urgency and impact of each audit project. I leverage project management tools to allocate resources effectively, ensuring timely completion of audits without compromising quality.

9. Question: Can you share an example of a successful follow-up activity you conducted to ensure the implementation of audit recommendations?

   Answer: After identifying control weaknesses in a previous audit, I developed a comprehensive action plan, collaborated with relevant stakeholders, and conducted regular follow-ups. This resulted in the successful implementation of recommendations, strengthening internal controls.
10. Question: How do you contribute to a positive and collaborative team environment within the internal audit department?

Answer: I believe in fostering open communication and collaboration within the team. I actively participate in team meetings, share insights and best practices, and encourage a supportive environment where team members can learn from each other and collectively contribute to the success of the internal audit department.

We wish you the best in your application for the Internal Audit Officer position at MEDS. Our commitment is to attract and retain the best employees from all races and backgrounds, contributing to our ongoing efforts to become a better development partner.