Senior Internal Auditor: Data Analyst and Systems Developer (N000945) at North West University

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

This position will perform programming tests, write scripts, and extract data from the university's systems. They will analyse, evaluate, and report on the data based on specific risk areas or requests. They will also identify and prevent fraud and non-compliance. Additionally, they will communicate and report results and exceptions to audit clients and make recommendations to improve data integrity and related controls. Lastly, they will report trends and audit issues to Management and the Audit, Risk and Compliance Committee, and assist other auditors with data extraction and analysis for audits and investigations.

JOB DESCRIPTION

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Data analyst and programming

• Assist with identifying priority and risk areas in coordination with the strategy and approved Internal Audit Plan
• Responsible for programming of relevant audit tests, the configuration of test parameters, testing and determining the audit process frequency for the reporting of exceptions and follow-ups in coordination with SIA: Continuous Monitoring.
• Detecting and reporting exceptions, follow-up on feedback or allocate to the relevant internal auditor.
• Plan and complete continuous and other auditing assignments in compliance with the required audit standards/practices and contribute to continuous quality improvement in the working environment.
• Reporting progress, the status of results (exceptions versus corrections), quarterly for the audit committee and issuing quarterly reports to management, based on results produced by continuous auditing/monitoring tests.

Special investigations:

• Assist forensic investigators and other internal auditors with data extraction from various data sets per approved request.
• Assist with data gathering and analysis of data linked to special investigations.
• Assist and promote the anti-fraud strategy by identifying problem/risk areas in support of the anti-fraud strategy by promoting early identification and detection of possible areas of misconduct (red flag areas).

Administration and personal development:

• Own administration (proper filing of electronic working papers and supporting documentation / timely submission of official annual forms and required declarations / complete leave records / tidy work area, assistance and updating of time and audit management systems within the division as required, etc.)
• Continuous personal development and training to enhance specific skills as required by job description, professional client services, and adhering to the values of integrity, commitment, accountability and respect) of the university and the IIASA.
• Feedback to other staff on training opportunities attended, if applicable.

Minimum requirements

• BCom HONS in Accountancy / Forensics OR B Sc HONS in Computer Science / Business Analytics / Actuarial / Information Technology (NQF 8)
• A minimum of 2 years’ relevant experience with financial systems and processes.
• A minimum of 2 years’ relevant experience as business and data analysist, computer software development, data mining and data base connection.
• A minimum of 2 years advanced level MS Office (Word / Excel) experience.
• Knowledge of programming languages -SQL, Python and web development.

ADDED ADVANTAGE:

• A minimum of 2 years relevant experience with audit-related systems and processes.
• Certified Systems Auditor
• Registration with CISA / IIASA
• Membership with IIA(SA)

KEY FUNCTIONAL / TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:

• Proficient in programming languages such as Python for data manipulation and analysis, and web development.
• Deep understanding of software development principles and best practices.
• Experience with software testing, debugging, and version control systems.
• Familiarity with database management systems and SQL for data retrieval.
• Knowledge of web development frameworks and technologies, including JavaScript, PHP, and HTML.
• Proficient in statistical analysis techniques and data mining algorithms.
• Understanding of data governance, quality, and best practices.
• Ability to interpret and communicate data-driven insights effectively.
• Exposure/experience in a higher education environment will be to your advantage.
• Knowledge/experience of/with different financial systems.
• Valid driver’s licence.

BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES

• Technical-minded individual with a strong analytical and logical thinking ability.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently and collaboratively.
• Detail-oriented individual with a passion for problem-solving and data analysis.
• Proactive and adaptable to cope with evolving technological advancements.
• Excellent communication skills to interact with different stakeholders.
• The ability to be self-driven and work independently.
• Professionalism and integrity.
• Business acumen and interpersonal skills, and ability to liaise internally and externally on different levels.
• Effective time management skills
• Effective recordkeeping and administration skills.