Head of Internal Control

Job Overview:
The head of internal control is responsible for establishing and overseeing an effective internal control system in the microfinance bank to ensure sound risk management, compliance with Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) regulations, protection of assets, accuracy of financial records, and prevention of fraud.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Design, implement, and monitor internal control policies and procedures in line with CBN guidelines for microfinance banks. Identify, assess, and manage operational, credit, financial, and compliance risks. Ensure adequate segregation of duties across all functions, especially cash handling, loan processing, and reconciliations. Ensure full compliance with CBN regulations and other applicable laws. Monitor adherence to internal policies, operational manuals, and regulatory limits. Prepare and submit internal control reports required by regulators and management. Conduct regular branch and head office control reviews. Review loan documentation, disbursement processes, and recovery activities to ensure compliance. Investigate fraud cases, control breaches, and irregularities and recommend corrective actions. Follow up on internal and external audit findings to ensure timely resolution. Review daily transactions, cash management processes, and reconciliations. Monitor expense controls, revenue assurance, and asset safeguarding. Ensure proper authorisation limits are observed at all levels. Prepare periodic internal control, risk, and compliance reports for management and the Board. Advise management on control weaknesses and process improvements. Support external auditors and regulatory examiners during audits and inspections. Supervise and mentor internal control officers and branch control staff. Promote a strong compliance and risk culture across the bank. Conduct staff sensitisation on internal controls, ethics, and fraud prevention.

Required Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, banking, business administration, or a related discipline. Professional qualifications such as ICAN, ACCA, CPA, CIA, or CISA are strongly preferred. A minimum of 5–10 years of experience in internal control, audit, or risk management, preferably within a microfinance or deposit-money bank. Strong knowledge of CBN microfinance bank regulations and banking operations.

Educational Background:
Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, banking, business administration, or a related discipline.

Experience:
A minimum of 5–10 years of experience in internal control, audit, or risk management, preferably within a microfinance or deposit-money bank.

Languages:
English

Additional Notes:
Strong understanding of microfinance operations and credit processes. High level of integrity and independence. Strong analytical, investigative, and reporting skills. Attention to detail and sound judgment. Excellent leadership and communication skills.