Chief Audit Executive (Fixed-Term Contract Of 5 Years) at South African National Parks (SANParks)

• The Organisation requires the services of a Chief Audit Executive in the Corporate Division on a fixed term contract of 5 Years. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading an independent Internal Audit function that delivers assurance and advisory services supporting good governance, effective risk management, and regulatory compliance.
• They will provide strategic direction and manage the development and implementation of the Audit Management framework for SANParks. They will monitor organisational compliance in line with statutory requirements, policies, and procedures in line with the Global Internal Auditing Standards (GIAS), King IV, the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and Treasury Regulations, and SANParks policies.
• The successful candidate will report to the CEO and Audit Risk Committee. This position will be based in Groenkloof National Park.

Location

• Groenkloof National Park (Head Office)

Requirements

• NQF level 8 in Internal Auditing / Accounting or related field.
• NQF level 9 in (MBA/MCom) membership with recognized professional body such as but not limited to SAICA, CRMA etc will be an added advantage.
• Minimum 10 years’ experience in the audit environment with 5 years internal audit in a senior management level obtained within governance, risk and compliance.
• Experience in the management of processes and systems in Regulatory environment.
• IT audit experience is essential.
• Certified Internal Audit (CIA) or Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)).
• Proven engagement with ARC/Board; combined assurance; QAIP; PFMA/Treasury; King IV; ERM (COSO/ISO 31000).
• Experience in forensic auditing related to fraud investigation.
• Membership to relevant professional bodies, e.g. Global Internal Auditors (GIA), South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), Association of Chartered Certified Accountants
• (ACCA), Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), or other relevant bodies.
• Capacity to work with large volumes of data and documentation.
• Ability to travel occasionally to audit locations if required.
• Ability to use computers and audit software for extended periods.
• Commitment to ethical conduct and compliance with professional standards.
• Advanced Proficiency in the GIAS International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF), COSO, Code of Ethics and Standards, and related frameworks.
• Understanding of SANParks Financial Reporting Framework (Generally Recognised Accounting Practices – GRAP.
• Understanding of the Framework for Managing Programme Performance Information (FMPPI) and Framework for Strategic Plans and Annual Performance Plans.
• Proficient understanding of internal audit processes including identifying and evaluating key risks and setting the audit scope.
• Good knowledge of the business environment and related legislative frameworks.
• Expert knowledge with a comprehensive understanding of regulatory and departmental environment underpinning internal audit management to be applied in highly complex circumstances.
• Possess advanced proficiency of audit competencies (risk management & control, communication, problem solving and financial analysis).
• Advanced knowledge of the PFMA, Treasury Regulations and Public Service Regulations; Internal Auditing Standards; the South African Auditing Standards.
• King IV report on Corporate Governance.
• All other relevant legislation and regulations applicable to SANParks.
• In-depth knowledge of the PFMA, its regulations, and Treasury directives.
• Risk-based Auditing expertise.
• International professional standards applications.
• Critical behaviour and leadership skills.
• Strategic leadership, influence and Communications (to be a credible advisor to the executive team and the Board.
• Unquestionable integrity and ethical fortitude (King IV Principle 1).

Responsibilities

• Define, develop, and ensure implementation of long-term strategy for the Internal Audit unit that is aligned and supports the SANParks’ Strategy
• Ensure alignment of all activities undertaken in the unit to the strategy of the business and the applicable legislation
• Drive best practice, continuous improvement and innovation at process and procedure level.
• Work with the CEO and Audit Committee to establish an effective control environment.
• Maintain close liaison with the Board and Audit Committee members and all other committee members and managers.
• Ensure effective planning, preparations, and facilitation of the SANParks Audit Committee
• Provide assurance on internal control environment and participate in all forms of risk management.
• Ensure that internal audits are conducted in accordance with the IIA standards.
• Preparation and submission of management reports on internal control policies, procedures, and systems.
• Manage Auditor General monthly key controls and meetings.
• Maintain internal working relationships with Executive Management and CEO.
• Report to Audit Committee and CEO on internal controls and gaps.
• Interface with Audit Committee on internal controls and gaps.
• Promote partnerships with relevant stakeholders and manage overall perceptions on the internal audit function.
• Manage and oversee team performance through performance planning, coaching and performance appraisals.
• Motivate and inspire the team by providing them with the information and tools they need to do their jobs well and meet expectations.
• Manage the head count, recruiting and deploying resources as required, to ensure the department budget is balanced, and the right mix of skills and strengths are being leveraged as effectively as possible.
• Provide oversight, assurance, coordination, and reporting regarding forensic investigations.

How To Apply

Interested candidates who meet the above requirements should forward their applications accompanied by the required documentation listed below to the following:

Documents Required

• A cover letter, detailed Curriculum Vitae, certified copies of qualification(s), and Identity Document (certified within the past 3 months) to the following address:
• Human Capital Management
• SA National Parks
• PO Box 787
• PRETORIA
• 0001
• Fax: 086 295 4078
• E-mail: [email protected]
• Applications that have not been responded to within 21 days should be regarded as unsuccessful.

Closing Date

• 23 October 2026