Internal Auditor

Organizational Context

The Office of the Inspector-General (OIG) at FAO provides oversight of programmes and operations through internal audit and investigation. The Internal Audit Branch conducts assurance and advisory activities to enhance organizational operations by systematically evaluating risk management, control, and governance processes. Work adheres to the International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) and Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing. The Branch comprises two units, and the selected candidate will initially be assigned to the Audit Advisory and Professional Practices Unit at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy.

Job Purpose

The Internal Auditor's primary role is to plan and execute audit assurance and advisory engagements at headquarters and field offices. The objective is to provide independent and objective assurance and advice to senior management and governing bodies, ensuring that FAO's programmes and operations are conducted with due regard for economy, efficiency, effectiveness, and ethics. This involves comprehensive audit processes from planning and information gathering through analysis and report writing, adhering to international auditing standards and OIG procedures. The role contributes to improving organizational effectiveness and governance.

Responsibilities

Plan and execute audit assurance and advisory engagements, including initial planning, information gathering, interviews, analysis, and report writing, in compliance with international auditing standards and OIG procedures. Prepare and review electronic working papers using TeamMate to support audit observations and conclusions. Draft clear and concise audit reports and present engagement results to the Inspector-General and FAO management. Provide specialist advice to managers across the Organization. Plan and participate in project, programme, operational, or special reviews, and contribute to Organization-wide working groups. Promote capacity development in internal auditing and provide on-the-job training. Maintain and update the OIG Internal Audit Quality Assurance and Improvement Programme and the Internal Audit Manual. Support the development and enhancement of internal audit tools and techniques, including data analytics, technology, and AI. Undertake outreach activities to support OIG's communication strategy and contribute to strengthening information exchange between audit and investigation functions.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of relevant experience is required in an organization utilizing modern auditing, accounting, management, and/or information systems techniques. This experience can be gained within an internal audit department (public or private sector) or an auditing/management consulting firm. Proficiency in English (Level C) and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) are necessary.

Skills

Experience in international settings is desirable. Proficiency in performing financial, operational, performance, and IT audits, as well as risk assessments and management, is essential. Experience with strategic planning, programme management, and management information systems is beneficial. Familiarity with specialized audit software and expert knowledge of MS Excel are required. Demonstrated ability in report writing and identifying/analyzing issues to develop recommendations is crucial. Professional certifications like CIA or CISA are desirable, as are other certifications from recognized accountancy bodies. Working knowledge of an additional FAO official language is an asset.

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