The Internal Auditor is responsible for evaluating and improving the effectiveness of internal controls, risk management, and governance processes within the retail organization. This role ensures compliance with company policies, financial regulations, and operational standards to minimize risks and enhance efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Financial & Operational Audits:

• Conduct regular audits of financial statements, accounts, and transactions to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Review cash handling procedures, sales reconciliations, inventory management, and expense controls.
• Evaluate internal controls related to accounts payable, receivables, payroll, and general ledger.

2. Inventory & Stock Audits:

• Verify stock levels, movement, and shrinkage to prevent fraud and discrepancies.
• Monitor adherence to inventory policies and conduct surprise stock audits at retail outlets and warehouses.

3. Compliance & Risk Management:

• Ensure compliance with company policies, tax regulations, and industry standards.
• Identify risks related to fraud, theft, and operational inefficiencies and recommend mitigation strategies.
• Assess adherence to statutory requirements like GST, VAT, labor laws, and POS operations.

4. Process & Policy Improvements:

• Identify gaps in existing processes and recommend improvements for operational efficiency.
• Develop and implement best practices for financial controls, store operations, and procurement.

5. Reporting & Documentation:

• Prepare detailed audit reports with findings, risk assessments, and corrective action plans.
• Present audit results and recommendations to senior management.
• Maintain documentation of audit procedures, reports, and follow-ups.

6. Fraud Detection & Investigation:

• Investigate suspicious financial transactions, inventory shortages, or policy violations.
• Work with legal and HR teams in case of fraud-related incidents.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Education: Bachelor's/Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field. A certification such as CA, CPA, CIA, or CISA is preferred.
• Experience: Minimum 4-7 years of internal audit experience, preferably in the retail industry.
• Skills:
• Strong knowledge of financial auditing, inventory management, and risk assessment.
• Familiarity with ERP systems, POS software, and financial reporting tools.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and conduct audits across multiple locations.

Key Competencies:

• Attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ethical and professional integrity.
• Ability to handle confidential information.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.