Internal Audit Manager: Strategic Risk

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Absa is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from suitably qualified individuals from diverse backgrounds. In support of our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) commitments and Employment Equity objectives, preference may be given to candidates from underrepresented designated groups, including persons with disabilities. We encourage applicants who may require reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process to let us know so that appropriate support can be provided.

Job Summary

Provide independent assurance over how the Group identifies and manages strategic risk, translates strategy into executable priorities, and delivers intended strategic and transaction outcomes. The role covers strategic risk management, strategy execution and material M&A activity, with emphasis on early visibility of execution risk, effective management response and value realisation.

Job Description

ERM and strategic risk alignment

ERM alignment. The role applies the Group Enterprise Risk Management Framework’s Evaluate–Respond–Monitor process to strategic objectives: identify and assess risks, evaluate management’s response, and monitor response effectiveness and changes in the risk profile.

Strategic risk definition. Strategic risks arise from the Group’s strategic choices and execution activities, including the supporting systems and the Group’s agility in responding to changing business trends, technology evolution and customer needs.

Role implication. Assurance therefore covers both the quality of strategic choices and whether execution is managed within risk appetite and delivers the intended outcomes.

Key accountabilities:

1. Strategic risk assurance

• Strategic risks are identified, assessed, managed and reported in line with the ERMF and approved risk appetite.
• Assess the strategic risk framework, governance, risk appetite, policies and accountability.
• Evaluate strategic assumptions, scenarios, internal and external risk drivers, and the quality of the strategic risk profile.
• Assess management responses, monitoring, reporting and escalation across the three lines of defence.

2. Strategy translation and execution

• Approved strategy is translated into aligned priorities and delivers measurable outcomes.
• Assess translation of strategy into objectives, measures, targets, initiatives, enablers and accountable owners.
• Evaluate alignment of capital, investment, people and technology decisions to strategic priorities.
• Assess execution governance, performance information, dependencies, benefits tracking and timely course correction.
• Identify execution gaps and value leakage, focusing on outcomes rather than completion of activity.

3. M&A and strategic transactions

• Transactions are supported by sound decisions and disciplined delivery of deal value.
• Assess strategic rationale, transaction governance, valuation assumptions, due diligence and approval information.
• Evaluate integration or separation planning, risks, dependencies and operational readiness.
• Assess synergy tracking, post-deal performance, benefits realisation and management action where value is at risk.

4. Audit delivery and executive insight

• Internal Audit provides timely, credible and forward-looking assurance.
• Lead risk-based reviews, oversee testing and communicate clear findings and thematic insights.
• Engage senior stakeholders across Strategy, Risk, Finance, Corporate Development and business units.
• Coordinate with business-unit audit teams and other assurance providers to avoid duplication and close coverage gaps.

5. Methodology and people leadership

• Internal Audit has the capability to assure strategic risk, execution and M&A effectively.
• Develop practical assurance methods, risk libraries and outcome-focused testing approaches.
• Build capability through coaching, research, training and knowledge sharing.
• Lead and develop a high-performing specialist team.

Experience and knowledge:

• Substantial experience in internal audit, strategy, strategic risk, corporate finance, M&A, transaction advisory or business performance.
• Strong understanding of the ERMF, risk appetite, scenario analysis, strategic planning, performance management and benefits realisation.
• Practical understanding of the M&A lifecycle, including valuation, due diligence, integration and post-deal value realisation.
• Strong financial and commercial analysis, executive stakeholder engagement and concise report writing.
• Financial services experience is preferred.

Qualifications and competencies:

• Relevant degree or postgraduate qualification in accounting, finance, economics, business, strategy or risk.
• CA(SA), CIA, CFA or an equivalent professional qualification is advantageous.
• Strategic and systems thinking; commercial judgement; professional scepticism; analytical ability; executive influence; delivery and people leadership.

Education

Bachelor`s Degrees and Advanced Diplomas: Business, Commerce and Management Studies (Required)