Independence, Ethics & Conflicts Manager at BDO South Africa

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Manage design and implementation of projects and initiatives, policies and processes, systems/ tools relating to Relevant Ethical Requirements (including Independence).
• Examples of this includes managing the end-to-end processes of different types of ethics and independence declarations, the non-assurance services approval process for Public Interest entities audit clients, facilitating different types of ethics and independence training, maintaining partner rotation schedules, etc. 
• Provide training, advice and support to partners, directors and professionals on Ethics, Independence & Conflicts of Interest policies, processes, procedures, and systems.
• Identify risks related quality objectives, assess current controls to determine if appropriate and design controls to further mitigate any identified risks.
• Perform reviews to monitor compliance to policies and procedures and provide input into related risks.
• Manage team of Compliance Practitioners responsible for certain steps in the client an engagement acceptance and independence processes and provide reporting to Associate Director Compliance.
• Key link between Compliance and the Digital Solutions team to ensure effective and efficient automation solutions. Engage with other stakeholders in the firm to ensure a proper understanding and buy-in for defined policies and processes.
• Prepare reporting for Governance Bodies and Committees.
• Identify improvements to existing processes.
• Stakeholder management and engagement

Requirements

Qualifications/Recognition of Prior Learning equivalent

• Matric
• A qualification in accounting, finance, business, external or internal audit. CA(SA) or CIA would be advantageous

 Work Experience

• Proven experience in a risk, ethics, conflicts, or independence role within an audit firm or similar financial services setting

 Knowledge

• Intermediate Excel, Word and PowerPoint.
• Strong written and spoken English language skills

Behavioural Competencies

• Strong analytical skills and the ability to assess complex situations to make sound ethical decisions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with team members and clients on ethics-related matters.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Good interpersonal and organisational skills
• Strong spoken and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaborate with team members
• A proactive approach to continuous improvement 
• Project Management

BDO Core Competencies

• Relationships and Collaboration
• Exceptional Client Service
• Engaging people
• Leadership
• Quality, Risk management and Operational performance