Job Summary
- Employer: Head Hunters International
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Audit & Compliance
- Closing Date: 2026-09-25
Key Responsibilities
- Develops and maintains a risk-based rolling five-year Internal Audit Strategy and annual audit plan, informed by the Group’s enterprise risk register, regulatory requirements, strategic priorities and input from the Group Chief Executive Officer and Audit & Risk Committee.
- Directs and oversees the execution of internal audit engagements across the Group, including financial, operational, information technology, compliance, value-for-money and performance audits, in accordance with the International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) and applicable professional standards.
- Leads and oversees complex and sensitive audits, including matters involving executive management, fraud, regulatory issues and matters of strategic or national significance.
- Designs, implements and maintains a Group-wide compliance and ethics programme that ensures the organisation identifies, understands and meets its obligations under applicable laws, regulations, licences and internal policies.
- Establishes effective mechanisms for monitoring regulatory and statutory compliance and reporting significant compliance risks and breaches to the appropriate governance structures.
- Directs the forensic audit and investigations function in the investigation of allegations of fraud, corruption, financial misconduct, conflicts of interest, asset misappropriation and other irregularities.
- Ensures that investigations are conducted independently, objectively, confidentially and in accordance with established professional standards and applicable legislation.
- Maintains effective relationships with regulators, Government institutions, professional bodies and other key stakeholders on matters relating to audit, compliance, governance and assurance.
- Escalates significant control deficiencies, suspected misconduct, compliance breaches and unresolved audit findings through the appropriate governance channels.
- Leads, develops and retains a high-calibre internal audit, compliance and forensic investigation team through effective recruitment, professional development, succession planning and performance management.
- Establishes clear performance standards and promote continuous professional development and adherence to relevant professional and ethical standards.
- Promotes the adoption of modern audit technologies, data analytics and risk-based assurance methodologies to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the function.
Requirements
- A degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Auditing or a closely related discipline.
- Chartered Accountant (CA) qualification.
- Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) qualification.
- At least one of the following professional qualifications: Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) or Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP).
- A Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA), Accounting, Finance, Law, Governance or a related discipline.
- A minimum of 10 years’ progressive professional experience in auditing, risk management and/or compliance, including at least 8 years’ experience in internal audit.
- At least 5 years’ experience in a senior audit management, Director or executive-level role within a large and complex organisation.
- Demonstrable experience leading internal audit, compliance, forensic investigation and assurance functions in a regulated, public sector, utility or similarly complex environment.
- Proven experience providing assurance and advisory services to Boards, Audit & Risk Committees and executive management.
- Demonstrable experience in developing risk-based audit strategies, overseeing complex audits and strengthening enterprise-wide governance, risk management and internal control frameworks.
- Experience in fraud risk management, forensic investigations, data analytics and technology-enabled auditing.
- Experience engaging effectively with regulators, Government institutions, external auditors and other strategic stakeholders.
- Experience in an electricity utility, energy, infrastructure, mining, telecommunications, transport or similarly regulated and capital-intensive environment will be an advantage.
- Membership of a recognised accounting, auditing, governance or related professional body.
How to Apply
About the Company
Head Hunters Incorporated is currently one of the leading Human resources consultants firm in Zimbabwe.We employ 22 employees full time and a wide range of over 20 associate consultants including registered psychologists and computerized fully licensed software for profiling positions and individuals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a Director of Audit and Compliance role in Zimbabwe?
Most employers require a degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration plus professional certifications such as ACCA, CIA, or ICSA. Membership with the Institute of Internal Auditors Zimbabwe or ICAZ is highly valued. At least 8-10 years of progressive audit experience, including senior management exposure, is typically expected.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Director of Audit and Compliance?
You will oversee internal audit functions, ensure regulatory compliance with ZIMRA and sector-specific regulators, and report findings to the board audit committee. The role involves risk assessment, policy development, and managing relationships with external auditors. Regular travel to branches or operations sites across Zimbabwe is often required.
How does the work culture and employer expectations differ in Zimbabwe compared to regional markets?
Zimbabwean employers emphasize hierarchical respect, formal reporting structures, and strong relationships with regulatory bodies. Punctuality and adaptability are crucial given economic volatility and currency fluctuations. Directors are expected to demonstrate resilience and resourcefulness with limited operational budgets.
What career progression opportunities exist after serving as Director of Audit and Compliance?
Successful directors often advance to Chief Audit Executive, Chief Risk Officer, or Group Finance Director roles within regional organizations. Some transition into consulting or join the Public Service Commission at permanent secretary level. Regional mobility to Zambia, Botswana, or South Africa becomes more achievable with this experience.
What typical benefits should I expect or negotiate for this senior role in Zimbabwe?
Standard packages include medical aid coverage, pension contributions, and annual leave of 20-30 days depending on employer category. Vehicle or transport allowances and housing benefits are common negotiable items at this level. Performance bonuses and school fee assistance may be offered by larger corporates and multinationals.
How should I apply and what do Zimbabwean employers specifically look for in candidates?
Apply through established recruitment agencies like Head Hunters International, professional networks, and direct applications to company websites or LinkedIn. Employers prioritize demonstrated integrity, local regulatory knowledge, and proven stakeholder management skills. Prepare for panel interviews involving board members and technical assessments on Zimbabwean compliance frameworks.
