Chief, Information Technology Audits

Chief, Information Technology Audits

United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)

May 12, 2026May 12, 2026NairobiKenya
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential from early childhood through adolescence. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development to its staff. UNICEF is known for its inclusive culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, emphasizing the importance of belonging and growth within a diverse workforce.

Job Overview:
The Chief, Information Technology Audits position is a leadership role within the Office of Internal Audit and Investigations (OIAI) at UNICEF. This role is crucial for overseeing the IT audit strategy and managing a dedicated team of IT audit staff and external experts. The Chief will be responsible for providing strategic direction and ensuring that audit and advisory engagements are conducted in accordance with applicable standards. This position requires a strong focus on risk management, effective communication of audit results, and the ability to build productive relationships with senior managers across UNICEF. The Chief will also play a key role in identifying and prioritizing assurance and advisory activities, ensuring that the unit's outputs are of the highest quality and aligned with UNICEF's mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Leadership of Unit: Provide leadership and strategic direction for the unit, ensuring that audit and advisory engagements are conducted according to standards and approved plans. Ensure high-quality outputs and effective communication of results.
  • People Management: Establish performance plans for staff, provide feedback, coach and mentor team members, and conduct performance appraisals. Promote a respectful work culture and address staff issues proactively.
  • Thematic Focus: Serve as a focal point for assigned thematic areas, monitor developments and emerging risks, and maintain relationships with key staff.
  • Leadership of OIAI and the Audit Section: Contribute to the management of the Internal Audit Section, participate in risk-based work planning, and lead the development of standard operating procedures. Act on behalf of the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Deputy Director as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or equivalent in fields such as Computer Science, Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration. Professional accreditations like CPA, CA, ACCA, CIA, or CISA are preferred. A first-level degree with additional experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Candidates should have at least 10 years of relevant work experience in ICT audit management, with significant experience in managing complex IT audits and external service providers, preferably in a UN or international environment.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree or equivalent in Computer Science, Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field is required. A first-level degree with additional experience in auditing may be accepted. Professional accreditations from recognized bodies are preferred.

Experience:
A minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in ICT audit management is required. Candidates should have significant experience in managing complex IT audits and external service providers, with a preference for experience in a UN or international context. Extensive experience in related fields may also be acceptable.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) or a local language is desirable.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may involve collaboration across multiple locations, encouraging flexible working hours to accommodate different time zones. UNICEF promotes an inclusive workforce and encourages applications from underrepresented groups. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with its aims, including discrimination and abuse. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks and must meet medical clearance and inoculation requirements.
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