Job Description

INTERNAL AUDIT OFFICE (IAO)

The IAO plays a pivotal role within the University's governance framework, dedicated to supporting management in meeting the institution's objectives through exemplary auditing practices. We seek a dynamic and innovative leader to assume the position of Director.

Director of Internal Audit (25260326)

Founded in 1956, HKBU strives to become a world-class research-led University in Asia for the world delivering academic and research excellence in a caring, creative, and global culture. The University's ambitious Institutional Strategic Plan 2018-2028 sets the research direction to transform HKBU into a reputable international powerhouse for research and teaching excellence. The University currently has an academic and teaching staff strength of about 1,000, with a total workforce of around 3,200, and a student population of over 13,000. We offer a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes through the Faculties/Schools of Arts and Social Sciences, Business, Chinese Medicine, Communication, Creative Arts, Science, and Continuing Education.

In Chinese Mainland, the University has successfully pioneered the establishment of a modern liberal arts university, Beijing Normal-Hong Kong Baptist University (BNBU), jointly with Beijing Normal University. To further strengthen research collaborations with universities in Chinese Mainland, the University has set up a number of research centres/institutes such as the Institute of Research and Continuing Education in Shenzhen.

Responsibilities:

As a key architect of the University’s governance framework, the Director will report functionally to the Audit Committee and administratively to the President and Vice-Chancellor. This leadership role offers a unique opportunity to shape the Internal Audit Office (IAO) to evaluate and improve the organisation’s governance, risk management and internal processes which enhance its strategic impact.

• Leading Comprehensive Audit Initiatives: Oversee all internal audit and compliance functions to ensure alignment with the University’s mission and objectives;
• Driving Operational Excellence: Conduct thorough system and operational reviews to promote efficiency, effectiveness, and robust internal controls across the organisation;
• Strategic Risk Management: Develop and implement risk-based audit plans that directly support HKBU’s strategic goals, ensuring proactive identification and mitigation of risks;
• Delivering Value-Added Insights: Provide independent assessments and actionable recommendations that drive continuous improvement and enhance organisational performance;
• Harnessing Data Analytics: Leverage advanced data analytics to transform audit processes, enabling deeper insights and more informed decision-making;
• Optimising External Partnerships: Oversee co-sourcing arrangements with external audit partners, ensuring comprehensive audit coverage while maximising resource efficiency; and
• Facilitating Governance Communication: Serve as Secretary to the Audit Committee, playing a vital role in enhancing communication and reporting within the governance structure.

Requirements:

• Professional Credentials: A Certified Internal Auditor or recognised accounting qualification (CPA, ACCA, CA, or equivalent) with experience in Internal Audit, demonstrating a commitment to excellence in the field;
• Extensive Experience: Strong post-qualification background with Big Four firms or major organisations, highlighting essential auditing and compliance expertise for senior leadership roles;
• Leadership and Influence: Proven ability to lead teams and drive risk-focused auditing strategies that enhance organisational integrity;
• Bilingual Proficiency: Excellent command of written and spoken English and Chinese (including Putonghua), facilitating effective communication across diverse stakeholders;
• Specialised Knowledge: Expertise in risk management frameworks (COSO preferred), controls and systems-based auditing techniques, and data analytics tools, essential for navigating today’s complex audit landscape;
• Sector Familiarity: Understanding of Hong Kong public sector practices, enabling informed decision-making within the local context;
• IT Acumen: Awareness of IT environments that influence audit methodologies, ensuring audits are relevant and effective; qualifications in IT audit will be a plus; and
• Interpersonal Excellence: Strong interpersonal and presentation skills, critical for engaging with stakeholders and conveying audit findings effectively.

Shortlisted candidates will be required to prepare and deliver a presentation.

Appointment Terms:

• Fixed-term contract of 3 years;
• Re-appointment subject to mutual agreement and funding availability; and
• Competitive salary commensurate with qualifications.

Application Procedures:

Applicants are invited to submit their applications through the HKBU e-Recruitment System. Those who are not invited for an interview within 8 weeks of submission may consider their application unsuccessful. For details on the University’s Personal Information Collection Statement, visit https://hro.hkbu.edu.hk/en/worklife-at-hkbu/employee-favourable-environment.html#privacy-policy.

The University reserves the right not to make an appointment for the post advertised, and the appointment will be made according to the terms and conditions applicable at the time of offer.

Review of applications is ongoing until the position is filled.