Assistant Director, Internal Audit

The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) is seeking an accomplished Assistant Director, Internal Audit to provide strategic leadership and oversight of internal audit functions. This senior role supports governance, risk management, and compliance while strengthening accountability, transparency, and operational efficiency across the organization.

Key Job Information

• Position: Assistant Director, Internal Audit
• Reference Number: HELB/013 – Grade 4
• Location: Nairobi, Kenya
• Employment Type: Contract (up to three years, renewable subject to performance)
• Experience Level: Senior Management
• Application Deadline: As communicated by HELB

About Higher Education Loans Board (HELB)

The Higher Education Loans Board is a State Corporation established to finance higher education and training for Kenyan students. Through loans, scholarships, and bursaries, HELB plays a pivotal role in empowering learners, supporting skills development, and contributing to national socio-economic growth.

Operating within a highly regulated public sector environment, HELB is guided by strong governance principles, ethical leadership, and compliance with statutory frameworks. Professionals exploring careers at HELB join an institution committed to accountability, innovation, and prudent management of public resources while delivering meaningful social impact.

Assistant Director, Internal Audit Job Description

The Assistant Director, Internal Audit is responsible for coordinating and overseeing various audits and reviews in line with International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing. The role ensures the reliability and integrity of financial and operational information, safeguarding of assets, and adherence to applicable laws, regulations, policies, and contracts. This position represents one of the critical job opportunities at HELB for senior audit professionals seeking leadership roles in the public sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate operations of the Internal Audit Section to ensure efficient and effective service delivery.
• Oversee development, review, and implementation of internal audit policies and procedures aligned to strategic objectives.
• Coordinate preparation and execution of the risk-based internal audit work plan to ensure timelines and quality standards are met.
• Manage audit engagements from planning through execution and follow-up by supervising direct reports.
• Coordinate implementation of the approved annual audit plan by allocating assignments and monitoring progress.
• Oversee preparation of high-quality audit reports for management and the Audit, Risk Management and Compliance Committee of the Board.
• Ensure timely implementation and tracking of audit recommendations.
• Coordinate and oversee investigations as required to address emerging risks or incidents.
• Implement audit risk management and compliance plans approved by the Board committee.
• Assist in providing secretarial and technical support to the Audit, Risk Management and Compliance Committee.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of twelve years relevant work experience, including at least three years at the level of Principal Internal Auditor or equivalent.
• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business Administration, or a related discipline from a recognized institution.
• Master’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business Administration, or a related discipline.
• Professional qualifications such as CPA(K) or ACCA, and CISA or equivalent.
• Membership in ICPAK, ACCA, ISACA, and/or the Institute of Internal Auditors in good standing.
• Valid practicing certificate where applicable.
• Leadership course certificate lasting not less than four weeks from a recognized institution.
• Certificate in computer applications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of public sector governance, risk, and compliance frameworks.
• Demonstrated experience in leading audit teams and mentoring professionals.
• Proven ability to work under pressure while managing multiple priorities.

Benefits and Compensation

This role offers a competitive public sector remuneration package, exposure to Board-level governance processes, and opportunities for professional growth. Individuals seeking job opportunities today at HELB benefit from leadership development, meaningful work, and contribution to national education financing systems.

How to Apply for Assistant Director, Internal Audit Job Opportunity at HELB

Qualified candidates interested in the latest jobs at HELB are encouraged to apply for this senior audit position today. Applications should include a job application letter, detailed curriculum vitae, certified copies of academic and professional certificates, and relevant testimonials quoting the job title and reference number.

Soft copy applications must be submitted via email to [email protected]. Shortlisted candidates will be required to present valid Chapter Six compliance documentation during the recruitment process.

HELB is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from women, youth, marginalized communities, and persons with disabilities. This vacancy is ideal for professionals seeking senior internal audit opportunities in Nairobi within a mission-driven public institution.