Assistant Finance and Audit Manager

Job title : Assistant Finance and Audit Manager

We are seeking a Finance and Audit Manager who will be responsible for providing independent assurance on the adequacy and effectiveness of the company's internal controls, risk management processes, governance framework, and operational efficiency. The role oversees financial, operational, inventory, compliance, and audit functions, ensuring that risks are identified, controls are strengthened, and company assets are adequately safeguarded. The Finance and Audit Manager will also support the Finance Manager in financial reporting, budgeting, performance monitoring, compliance, and business analysis.

KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Audit Planning & Risk Assessment

• Develop and implement the annual risk-based internal audit plan.
• Conduct periodic risk assessments across all business units, warehouses, and branches.
• Identify key operational, financial, inventory, and compliance risks.
• Ensure audit activities are aligned with business objectives and risk priorities.

Financial Reporting and Management Accounting

• Assist in the preparation of monthly management accounts and financial reports.
• Support month-end and year-end closing processes.
• Perform financial analysis and variance reporting to support management decision-making.
• Ensure accuracy and completeness of financial records.

Financial & Working Capital Audits

• Review accounting records, financial transactions, and supporting documentation.
• Audit accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash management, and treasury processes.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of credit control and debt recovery procedures.
• Review supplier payment processes and compliance with approved policies.
• Assess the accuracy and completeness of financial records and reconciliations.
• Verify compliance with accounting standards, company policies, and statutory requirements. 

Inventory & Operational Audits

• Conduct periodic and surprise inventory audits across warehouses and branches.
• Verify inventory records against physical stock counts.
• Review stock receipt, transfer, return, adjustment, and disposal processes.
• Assess inventory valuation, stock management practices, and inventory controls.
• Investigate inventory discrepancies, losses, damages, and obsolete stock.
• Evaluate warehouse operations and inventory safeguarding procedures.

Internal Controls & Compliance

• Evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of internal control systems.
• Review compliance with company policies, procedures, and delegated authority limits.
• Assess compliance with regulatory, tax, and statutory requirements.
• Recommend improvements to strengthen internal controls and operational efficiency.
• Monitor implementation of approved audit recommendations.

Fraud Risk Management & Investigations

• Identify potential fraud risks and control weaknesses.
• Conduct investigations into suspected fraud, financial irregularities, theft, and misconduct.
• Prepare investigation reports and recommend corrective actions
• Promote fraud awareness and ethical business practices across the organization

Audit Reporting & Follow-Up

• Prepare clear and concise audit reports highlighting findings, risks, and recommendations.
• Present audit findings to management and relevant stakeholders.
• Track implementation of agreed corrective actions.
• Conduct follow-up reviews to ensure closure of audit issues.
• Provide periodic reports on audit activities, risk exposures, and control improvements

Business Process Improvement

• Review business processes and recommend improvements to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
• Support management in developing policies, procedures, and control frameworks.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings, process optimization, and risk reduction.
• Provide advisory support on internal control and risk management matters.

QUALIFICATIONS/ EXPERIENCE/ KNOWLEDGE

• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or a related discipline.
• A professional qualification such as ICAN, ACCA, ACA, or equivalent is required.
• Minimum of 5–8 years' audit experience, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
• Experience in trading, distribution, retail, manufacturing, or the auto spare parts business is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of internal auditing standards, risk management, and internal controls.