Internal Audit Manager

Our client is a licensed real estate fund management company in Singapore, managing private real estate funds with cross border exposure. The firm is part of a group with offices in Singapore, Korea and Australia, and which maintains investments and operating structures across Asia Pacific markets.

ROLE SUMMARY

The Internal Audit Manager will be responsible for establishing and executing a risk based internal audit framework for the fund management business. The role covers governance, regulatory compliance, risk management, and internal controls across Singapore, Korea and Australia.

This is a hands on sole contributor role, suited for a candidate with at least 10 years of experience in fund management or asset management, and direct exposure to internal audit or risk/compliance reviews within regulated financial institutions.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Internal Audit & Risk Framework

• Develop and maintain a risk based internal audit plan aligned with business objectives, regulatory expectations, and fund structures.
• Execute internal audits covering fund management operations, governance, regulatory compliance, financial controls, valuation processes, outsourcing arrangements and operational risk.
• Review and assess the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls across the firm.

Regulatory & Governance Oversight

• Evaluate compliance with Singapore regulatory requirements, including MAS licensing conditions, guidelines on risk management, internal controls and business conduct.
• Assess governance frameworks, escalation processes, segregation of duties, and oversight by senior management and the board.
• Support regulatory inspections and respond to audit related regulatory queries where required.

Audit Execution & Reporting

• Prepare clear, concise internal audit reports with practical and risk focused recommendations for management and the board.
• Track and follow up on audit findings and remediation actions to ensure timely closure.
• Maintain appropriate documentation and audit working papers in line with professional standards.

External & Regional Coordination

• Work closely with external auditors, including reviewing audit scoping and deliverables. Eventually carrying out the work in-house in relation to the Singapore operations.
• Coordinate and support regional audits involving Australia and Korea, including remote reviews and engagement with local advisers where applicable.

Stakeholder Management

• Engage effectively with senior management, compliance, finance, operations and investment teams to understand risk areas and business processes.
• Provide constructive challenge while maintaining a practical, business oriented approach.

KEY REQUIREMENTS

Experience & Background

• At least 10 years of relevant experience in internal audit, risk, compliance, or external audit within the fund management, asset management, or financial services industry.
• Prior experience auditing or reviewing real estate funds, REIT managers, private funds, or asset managers is strongly preferred.
• Exposure to MAS regulated entities and familiarity with Singapore's regulatory environment is essential.

Regional Exposure

• Familiarity with fund management or asset management businesses in Australia and/or Korea is a strong advantage, particularly in relation to governance, regulatory or audit practice
• Experience coordinating cross border audits or working with regional stakeholders will be viewed favourably.

Qualifications

• Professional qualifications such as CIA, CPA, CA, ACCA or equivalent preferred.
• Degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related discipline.