The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance - The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) is an intergovernmental organization with a mission to advance democracy worldwide, as a universal human aspiration and an enabler of sustainable development, through support to the building, strengthening and safeguarding of democratic political institutions and processes at all levels.
We believe that democracy is a universal human aspiration and an experience that is pursued and lived in different ways around the world. Beyond the basic tenets of citizens’ choice and citizens’ political equality, the critical choices are best made and the quality of democracy is best gauged by those directly concerned: the citizens themselves. We systematically nurture an open and pluralistic understanding of democracy. This is respectful of the national context, and is in line with our non-prescriptive and non-intrusive approach, as well as with the priorities set by national actors.
International IDEA produces, shares and enables the use of comparative knowledge in its key areas of expertise: electoral processes, constitution building processes, political participation and representation, as well as on democracy as it relates to gender and inclusion, conflict sensitivity and sustainable development.
It has its headquarters in Stockholm, Sweden, and offices in the Africa and West Asia, Asia and the Pacific, Latin America and the Caribbean and Europe regions. International IDEA is a Permanent Observer to the United Nations.
Context
Internal auditing is an independent and objective assurance and consulting activity that is designed to add value and improve an organization’s credibility and performance. The Internal Auditor manages the Internal Audit function, including the preparation of the detailed risk based audit work plan through to reporting, making recommendations on systems and procedures, monitoring management’s response and implementation, including reporting on risk management and identifying, interpreting, and reacting to risks that could affect the ability to realize set goals.
Under the leadership of the Secretary-General and the Finance and Audit Committee, the Auditor discharges his/her responsibilities by providing Senior Management, Staff Members and the Council of Member States with an independent evaluation of compliance with management policies and an objective assessment of the effectiveness of these policies in meeting the organization’s objectives. The Auditor is also expected to review and evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of the Institutes structure of internal control and the quality of programme performance, whilst maintaining effective working relationships with Senior Management and Staff Members. S/he works independently with extensive latitude for initiative and independent judgment within limits of accepted International Internal Auditing Standards and established policies and procedures.
Duties and Responsibilities
Through a written audit charter that establishes its purpose, authority, and responsibility to support its independence and objectivity within the organization, the Internal Auditor performs the following duties:
- Ensures the Internal Audit function provides an independent assessment of the adequacy of internal systems and controls, including the systems for appropriate identification, evaluation of risks and compliance with all procedures and regulations;
- Maintains the Internal Audit Charter for International IDEA;
- Establishes a monitoring system of financial management performance;
- Updates Senior Management and the Finance and Audit Committee on the overall compliance status of the organization; Draws any weaknesses to the attention of the Secretary-General and the Finance and Audit Committee; Coordinates and collaborates with external auditors as required;
- Undertakes investigations; Conducts any reviews or tasks requested by the Secretary-General (or his/her delegate), the Finance and Audit Committee or the Executive Director, provided such reviews do not compromise the independence or objectivity of the internal audit function;
- Initiates, plans and performs the internal audit function including the preparation of a risk-based audit plan;
- Performs a complete operational and financial review to ensure that internal controls are compliant and working effectively;
- Analyzes and proposes recommendations on systems and procedures, reports on findings and recommendations and monitors management’s response and implementation;
- Collaborates with Senior Management to ensure that all major risks of the organization are identified and analyzed;
- Assists teams in preparing for audits by performing selected analysis and recommending corrective action plans; tracks and ensures all corrective action is taken in a timely manner;
- Conducts necessary training to educate staff on accountability, compliance and internal control measures.
General Profile
- Contributes to the effectiveness, efficiency and accountability of processes through determined priorities, allocating resources for the completion of outputs and their timely delivery;
- Promotes collaborative auditing to add value to the organization and aligns internal audit processes with management expectations;
- Combines in-depth knowledge, acquired through academic achievements, excellent skills including managerial skills and relevant experience in their field;
- Strong analytical skills; Ability to identify key audit issues; ability to present sensitive and difficult audit findings and recommendations;
- Excellent communication skills, both orally and in writing, including the preparation of reports;
- Resourcefulness, initiative, maturity and the ability to work with minimum direction;
- Ability to work with individuals from a wide variety of backgrounds;
- Strong management and technical leadership skills;
- Is expected to travel globally to any geographical area involved in his/her projects;
- Integrates a gender and diversity perspective in all activities.
Reporting Line
- Secretary-General and Finance and Audit Committee.
Programmatic Knowledge
- Has in-depth knowledge and extensive work experience in own discipline, combined with a good understanding of related disciplines in order to approach activities in a holistic manner.
Operational Knowledge, skills and experience
- Integrates a results-based approach into the management and evaluation of all his/her programmatic activities;
- Has thorough understanding of relevant programmatic issues in the key geographical zone where his/her work is implemented;
- Illustrates integrity, a collaborative spirit, a sense of achievement, and an understanding of risk management;
- Manages the budget of his/her project(s).
Leadership
- Sets priorities and manages resources; Acts as a model and resource for colleagues.
Problem Solving
- Will solve complex challenges, approach issues with new perspectives, and analyze situations from a multitude of intervening factors.
Impact
- The Internal Auditor’s positive contribution should enhance transparency and accountability about the use of funds; errors of judgement have far reaching consequences and could impact negatively on International IDEA’s public standing.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
- Strong analytical and writing skills are required;
- Highly developed judgment and interpersonal skills; acts and is perceived as an initiator of relevant communication to solve issues;
- Drives projects and assignments through communicative personal energy and engagement;
- Requires maturity, tact and a rational approach to sensitive information and matters; can explain sensitive information with diplomacy;
- Is able to present his/her activities and represent International IDEA effectively in all professional circles.
Education and Experience
- University degree in Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Audit, Information Systems or related field. University degree in Accounting;
- Professional Membership in an internationally recognized accountancy body such as the Institute of Chartered Accountants, the Institute of Certified Public Accountants or equivalent or an internationally recognized auditing body such as the Institute of Internal Auditors or equivalent;
- Minimum of six (6) years working knowledge in a similar role; Has audit information system (in extracting/analyzing data) and audit experience in conducting audits of ERP modules;
- Experience with IT general controls, development processes, application controls and interfaces in complex environments using ERP applications highly desirable.
Terms of Contract
- International post;
- Two (2) year fixed term appointment;
- Salary EUR 5 722 NET plus benefits.
Applying for this position
- Applications should be submitted online no later than 24:00 (CET) 22 March 2020;
- All applications must be made in English.
International IDEA is an equal opportunity employer which seeks to further diversify its staff in terms of gender, culture and nationality.
this job offer is not open for applications