Internal Auditor: Data Analyst (Post Level 7) at University of the Free State

Duties and responsibilities

Conduct data analysis and extraction of information:

• Develop embedded audit analytics as part of audit planning, fieldwork and reporting through the execution of data analytics test steps.
• Obtain, analyse and evaluate accounting documentation, previous reports, data, flowcharts, etc.
• Utilise data analysis tools and techniques to extract, clean and transform data.
• Perform advanced data analytics, including trend analysis and anomaly detection.
• Apply predictive modelling in identifying patterns, anomalies potential risks.  
• Access reliable data sources.
• Ensure data completeness and accuracy.
• Clean, transform, and standardise data.

Performs risk assessment and audit planning

• Analyse large datasets to uncover potential operational, financial, and compliance risks.
• Identify unusual patterns, trends, and anomalies that may indicate vulnerabilities or emerging risks.
• Quantify and rank risks based on their likelihood and potential impact.
• Provide a data-driven approach to determine which areas require immediate attention.
• Assist in the allocation of audit resources to high-risk areas.
• Support the development of dynamic, risk-based audit plans tailored to evolving organizational risks.
• Identify key business processes and control points for detailed reviews.
• Prioritise audit focus on areas where the greatest risks or inefficiencies are present.
• Provide objective, fact-based insights to inform risk assessments and audit strategies.
• Enable auditors to move from periodic assessments to a more proactive, real-time approach.
• Identify high-risk transactions or behaviours that might indicate fraud.

Design audit tools & conduct audit testing and sampling

• Design and execute audit tests and tools and sampling methodologies.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of internal controls and compliance with policies.
• Evaluate the accuracy of financial reporting and conform to financial standards.
• Document audit areas of improvement or positive observations and recommendations area of improvement and opportunities.
• Apply professional auditing standards and internal audit protocols.
• Benchmark performance metrics.
• Identify process bottlenecks and inefficiencies.
• Leverage advanced techniques like machine learning and AI.
• Incorporate predictive analytics and visualisation tools.
• Foster a culture of data-driven decision-making.

Assist with data visualisation and reporting of information

• Present risk assessment findings in visual formats, such as dashboards and heat maps, to aid decision-making.
• Facilitate communication of risks and priorities to senior management and audit committees.
• Deliver actionable insights beyond compliance checks.
• Provide strategic recommendations for risk mitigation.
• Highlight areas for cost savings.
• Audit effectiveness and Impact Measurement.
• Track the resolution of audit findings.
• Measure the effectiveness of data-driven audits.
• Improve audit timelines and resource efficiency.
• Monitor key controls and detecting anomalies.
• Provide real-time assurance on control effectiveness.
• Collaborate with IT team to enhance data analytics capabilities.
• Optimise data extraction processes and leverage technology solutions.
• Create visually compelling dashboards, charts and graphs to present audit findings.
• Present trends and key metrics to stakeholders clearly and professionally.
• Prepare audit reports, summaries and presentations for management review.
• Highlight areas of concern, potential risks and opportunities for improvement.

Inherent requirements:

• A degree/postgraduate diploma on NQF Level 7 in  Accounting/Internal Audit/Computer Science/Data Science/Information Systems/Statistics/Business Analytics.
• Minimum three (3)  years’ relevant working experience in Internal Audit Risk Management/Data Analytics/Business Analytics.

Recommendations:

• Added advantage - Professional certification (e.g. CIA, CISA)(attach a copy).
• Proficiency in data analysis tools like ACL, IDEA, Power BI, Tableau, SQL, or Python (attach certificates).
• Knowledge of ERP systems such as PeopleSoft, SAP, or Banner used by universities.
• Understanding of governance, risk, and compliance frameworks.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to communicate complex data insights clearly.
• Stakeholder management and teamwork.

Closing Date: 4/6/2025