Audit Lead (Payment Systems Provider)
Job Description
About the Company The company is a Ghanaian fintech focused on (a) in-store and (b) online payments (momo, card payments, tap-to-pay, and a digital collection platform). The company enables merchants to accept cards and momo with fast settlement and no monthly fees and has been recognized as a fast-growing fintech in Ghana. Reporting Structure This position typically reports to the CEO and Board Audit Committee and works closely with operations, finance, compliance, IT, and business leadership. Job Summary The Audit Lead will lead the internal audit function of the Company to ensure the company’s financial, operational, compliance, and technology processes are effective, secure, and aligned with internal policies, industry standards, and applicable laws/regulations (including payments and financial services regulations in Ghana). You will play a key role in assessing risk, improving internal controls, advising management, and driving improvements in governance and compliance. Key Responsibilities 1. Leadership & Strategy Lead the execution of the internal audit plan efficiently and professionally. Develop and continuously update the risk-based internal audit strategy and annual audit plan aligned with business objectives and regulatory requirements. Serve as the primary point of contact for audit stakeholders including the Audit Committee, senior management, regulators, and external auditors. 2. Audit Planning & Execution Plan and execute risk-based internal audits covering financial, operational, compliance, IT, and payment systems controls. Lead audit lifecycle activities including scoping, risk assessment, fieldwork, testing, data analysis, work paper documentation, reporting, and follow-up on remediation. Focus on payment system specific areas such as authorization, settlement, reconciliation, transaction processing, dispute/chargeback handling, vendor management, and AML/CFT controls. 3. Risk & Control Assessment Assess the design and operating effectiveness of internal controls in key areas of the business, including IT and cybersecurity controls for payment platforms. Identify control weaknesses and emerging risks, and provide pragmatic recommendations to improve processes and reduce exposures. Employ data analytics and audit automation tools to enhance audit coverage and efficiency. 4. Reporting & Communication Produce detailed audit reports with clear findings, risk implications, and actionable recommendations for management and the board. Present audit outcomes and status updates to senior leadership and relevant committees. Track and monitor the implementation of audit recommendations and validate remediation actions. 5. Compliance & Best Practices Ensure audit activities are aligned with recognized standards such as the International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) of the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA), ISO audit frameworks, and local regulatory expectations. Stay current with relevant Ghanaian regulatory requirements (e.g., Bank of Ghana guidelines, Payment Systems & Services Act and related rules) and global best practices. Support external audits and regulatory reviews as required. Working Environment You will operate in a fast-paced, regulated technology environment where continuous innovation, risk awareness, and strong governance are key to sustainable growth and regulatory compliance.
Requirement(s)
Qualifications Education & Certifications Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, Information Systems, or a related field. Professional certifications such as CIA, CISA, CPA, ACCA, or equivalent are highly desirable. Advanced degree (e.g., Master’s) or specialized risk/audit qualifications are an advantage. Experience Minimum 5–10 years of internal audit experience, with at least 3+ years in a leadership or supervisory capacity. Prior experience in payments, fintech, banking, financial services or technology auditing is a strong plus. Experience with IT, cybersecurity, and data analytics in an audit context is preferred. Skills & Competencies Strong knowledge of risk management, internal controls, financial reporting, and audit methodologies. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills (written and verbal). Proven leadership, stakeholder engagement, and project management capabilities. Proficiency with audit tools/techniques, ERP/financial systems, MS Office, and data analytics solutions.
