Senior Internal Auditor

Job Description:

We are currently seeking a Senior Internal Auditor to join our team.

The Senior Internal Auditor is accountable for leading assigned assurance and consulting engagements or executing assigned parts thereof as per the annual Audit Plan with the primary focus of evaluating and improving the effectiveness of First West's (FW) risk management, control and governance processes. This role interacts directly with stakeholders at FW and provides a high level of professional service in line with the Institute of Internal Auditors' “International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing, the Definition of Internal Auditing, and the Code of Ethics” (“IIA Standards”).

We are open to filling this role across Canada, however, please note preference will be given to those that are located in BC or Toronto due to the proximity of our office locations. To be considered for this role, when applying, you must be eligible to work in Canada.

Here's what would be included as a part of your typical day * Audit Delivery: Leads assigned assurance and consulting engagements or executes assigned parts thereof. Plans the objectives and scope for assigned assurance and consulting engagements using a risk-based approach or assists internal audit management in doing so. Designs and develops risk-based audit programs and related procedures for such areas to address the objectives or assists internal audit management in doing so. Completes files within time budgets and target dates, and/or reviews peer or junior staff's files/work to ensure sufficient work was completed and evidence obtained to meet the objectives of the engagement.

• Reporting and Communication: Investigates audit observations to identify root causes of control deficiencies. Writes concise, risk-focused reports with practical recommendations. Communicates with and engages stakeholders in a diplomatic and tactful manner, in discussions of audit observations, risks and recommendations. Ensures open communication with other members of the Internal Audit department, as well as other employees, members of management, risk, and other organizational partners, in the areas of risk management, governance, regulatory compliance, and internal policies/procedures.
• Assistance and Guidance: Contributes to and assists internal audit management in the execution of the audit plan, and other department priorities and initiatives. Provides guidance, training, and functional advice to lesser experienced and junior Internal Audit team members in execution of their audit work and learning and professional development. Provides advice to and performs value-add activities for management, without compromising independence and objectivity, on risk management, internal control and governance processes, and recommends process improvements to mitigate risk to First West.
• Professional Standards: Ensures adherence to the IIA Standards and maintains a professional standard of conduct. Maintains an understanding of departmental audit quality standards, policies and procedures, industry regulations, and relevant organizational policies and procedures, and imparts that understanding to staff and incorporating it into all assurance, consulting, and value-add activities.
• Knowledge Management: Stays current with First West's strategic priorities, governance and risk management processes, business operations, and risk environment, as well as changing regulations, and emerging risks. Keeps abreast of relevant governance, risk management and/or internal control frameworks (e.g., COSO, ISO 31000, etc.), as well as leading industry or professional practices and trends. Apply the knowledge, where applicable, while carrying out audit engagements or other relevant responsibilities.

Required Skills, Experience & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or equivalent required; masters preferred
• Accounting designation (CPA) or Audit designation (CIA) required
• 4 years of overall experience in audit, assurance, risk or other relevant area required
• 1 year of internal audit experience preferred
• Financial services experience preferred
• Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills, interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective relationships with a range of stakeholders
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to process information, reach appropriate conclusions, and develop practical recommendations to improve the overall effectiveness and efficiency of the organization
• Ability to exercise strong and sound professional judgment
• Demonstrated knowledge of internal controls, risk management and risk-based auditing concepts, techniques, practices, standards and frameworks (e.g., COSO, ISO 31000, etc.)
• Solid knowledge of the IIA Standards, as well as internal audit processes and methodologies
• Strong business acumen, ideally within the financial services context
• Experience with audit software applications, such as TeamMate, and MS Office products, especially Word and Excel
• Strong time management skills: demonstrated ability to juggle priorities and meet deadlines
• Displays an understanding of risk and risk ownership by being able to demonstrate adherence to policies and procedures.

Why work for us?

We offer a total rewards package that recognizes the meaningful work you do to support our members and our communities, which includes:

• A competitive base salary plus performance-based incentive compensation
• Annual merit pay increases
• Flexible benefits as well as support for retirement benefits
• Vacation time, a flexible “Day4U” and the option to purchase up to five additional vacation days
• Other financial perks such as our Employee Banking Advantages which includes waived or reduced financial service fees, reduced rates on personal loans, mortgages and no-interest loans on lifestyle-related items that promote health, wellness, learning and business aptitude

In addition, you can enjoy socially conscious perks, like three paid days off every year, to volunteer for causes you care about.

What's your place in the First West story? Apply now and let's find out together!

First West regrets that only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Diversity & Inclusion:

First West Credit Union is committed to diversity and inclusion. Our goal is to create an inclusive, accessible environment for our candidates and employees that reflects the communities in which operate. If you require an accommodation for the recruitment or interview process (including alternate formats of materials, accessible meeting rooms or other types of accommodation), please let us know and we will work with you to meet your needs.

About Us:

If you believe in the same things we do, let's talk.

We're a financial cooperative that does things differently. That means we create innovative yet simple solutions to help people achieve their financial dreams and life goals. We make a difference by helping to build healthy communities. Our work environments will accelerate your personal and professional growth inspiring you to lead with courage. We strive to be an employer of choice in Canada, not just for what we do, but how we do it.

Exceed the limits of what you thought was possible and bring out your full potential. Inspire yourself with purpose and create new possibilities- for your future, for the lives of others and for the communities you're part of.

First West Credit Union