Internal Audit Manager

Role summary The Audit Manager is responsible for establishing and managing an effective internal audit function within Lamen Microfinance. The position ensures that institutional operations, policies, procedures, internal controls, risk management practices, financial activities, and microfinance operations are properly reviewed and aligned with DAB regulations, internal policies, and international microfinance best practices. The Audit Manager shall conduct independent, objective, and risk-based audits to identify weaknesses, recommend improvements, and support management in strengthening institutional governance, operational efficiency, portfolio quality, and compliance Duties and responsibilities 1.Audit Planning & Management Develop an annual and quarterly internal audit plan based on institutional risks and priorities. Submit audit plans to CEO/management for review and approval before implementation. Conduct audits according to approved plans and timelines. Ensure all audit activities are properly documented and followed by formal reporting. Avoid unplanned departmental reviews without proper audit assignment and management coordination. 2. Microfinance Operations Audit Conduct comprehensive audits of: Branch operations Loan origination and approval process Client appraisal and verification Loan documentation and credit files Disbursement procedures Repayment and collection processes Portfolio quality and PAR management Cash management and branch controls Client protection practices Ensure microfinance activities are performed according to approved policies and procedures. 3. Financial & Administrative Audit Review: Financial transactions Accounting records Budget compliance Procurement processes Asset management Payroll and HR controls Expense approvals Cash and bank reconciliations 4. MIS & Data Integrity Review Review reliability and accuracy of the MIS system. Ensure operational and financial data are properly recorded. Assess system access controls and data security. Identify gaps between field operations and MIS records. 5. Risk Management & Internal Control Identify operational, financial, compliance, and reputational risks. Evaluate effectiveness of internal controls. Recommend corrective actions. Follow up implementation of audit recommendations. 6. Compliance & Regulatory Responsibilities Ensure institutional compliance with: DAB regulations Internal policies Reporting requirements AML/CFT requirements Other applicable regulatory standards Maintain proper audit documentation for regulatory reviews and external audits. 7. Audit Reporting Prepare clear audit reports including: Audit scope Findings Risk level Root causes Recommendations Management response Corrective action plan Submit reports to CEO and Audit committee. 8. Coordination & Professional Conduct Maintain independence and confidentiality. Communicate professionally with all departments. Avoid disrupting operations through uncontrolled information requests. Coordinate audit activities with department heads. Promote a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. Job requirements Minimum 5 years of audit experience. Experience in microfinance, banking, financial institutions, or regulated entities. Strong understanding of credit operations and internal controls. Knowledge of DAB regulations and financial sector requirements. Skills & Competencies Strong analytical and risk assessment skills. Ability to prepare professional audit reports. Knowledge of microfinance operational processes. Strong communication and leadership skills. Ability to manage audit teams. Ability to work independently with high integrity. Performance Indicators (KPIs) Completion of approved audit plan. Quality and timeliness of audit reports. Reduction of operational control weaknesses. Effective follow-up of audit findings. Improvement of compliance level. Contribution to strengthening Lamen MFI governance Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field. Professional certification preferred (CIA, ACCA, CPA, or equivalent).