Head of Internal Audit

Emcure Pharmaceuticals Limited · India

Job Title: Head – Internal Audit & Risk Management

Function: Finance

Location: Pune

Qualification: Chartered Accountant (CA)

Experience: 12-16 Years

Role Summary

The Head of Internal Audit & Risk Management will lead the organization's Internal Audit and Assurance function. The role is responsible for developing and executing a risk-based internal audit strategy, evaluating business processes, identifying control gaps, and driving improvements across the organisation to strengthen operational efficiency and risk mitigation.

Key Responsibilities

Internal Audit & Assurance

• Develop and implement the annual risk-based internal audit plan.
• Review and assess the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls, policies, procedures, and governance frameworks across business functions.
• Provide independent assurance on financial, operational, compliance, and strategic risks.
• Lead and oversee end-to-end audit assignments, ensuring quality, accuracy, and timely completion.
• Finalize audit scope and objectives through comprehensive pre-audit risk assessments and planning activities.
• Conduct process walkthroughs with business stakeholders to understand risks, controls, and operational challenges.
• Ensure audit documentation and evidence are maintained in accordance with established internal audit methodologies and professional standards.
• Prepare audit reports, present findings to leadership, and track closure of audit observations.

Risk Management

• Establish and strengthen enterprise risk management frameworks across the organization.
• Identify, assess, and monitor key business risks and emerging risks.
• Prepare Risk Assessment Matrix (RAM) and discuss key risk areas with the President Finance and senior leadership.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of risk mitigation measures and recommend improvements.
• Drive a risk-aware culture through stakeholder engagement and awareness initiatives.

Audit Planning & Execution

• Prepare annual and periodic audit plans based on organizational risk priorities.
• Define audit testing strategies and resource requirements.
• Ensure all key controls identified in the Risk Assessment Matrix are appropriately tested and validated.
• Review audit conclusions with auditees and ensure factual accuracy before report issuance.
• Monitor audit timelines, budgets, and quality standards.

Stakeholder & Compliance Management

• Liaise with external auditors regarding audit plans, findings, and remediation actions.
• Support the Audit Committee by providing timely reports and updates on audit activities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure implementation of audit recommendations.
• Conduct special reviews, investigations, and forensic audits as directed by the Audit Committee or management.
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, corporate policies, and governance requirements.

Team & Consultant Management

• Lead and develop the internal audit function and team capabilities.
• Manage external consultants and co-sourced audit engagements.
• Ensure delivery of high-quality audit outcomes within agreed timelines.

Candidate Profile

• Qualified Chartered Accountant (CA) with 12-16 years of progressive experience in Internal Audit, Risk Management, Governance, and Assurance.
• Proven experience in designing and implementing risk-based audit programs.
• Strong understanding of internal control frameworks, risk management principles, and audit methodologies.
• Experience interacting with Audit Committees, Board members, and senior management.
• Exposure to manufacturing and pharmaceutical industry audits will be preferred.
• Big 4 experience will be an added advantage.
• Strong communication, stakeholder management, and leadership skills.