357 Retail Banking jobs in Bahrain

Senior Auditor - Retail Banking Arab Banking Corporation Manama, Bahrain Apply now Posted 5 days ago In-Office Job Permanent Competitive

ABC is recruiting a Senior Auditor – Retail Banking for its Group Audit Department in Bahrain. The role involves planning and executing audits of ila bank and Group Retail, providing feedback and assurance on control frameworks, risk management, and governance processes. Reporting to the Audit Head of ila Bank and Group Retail Banking, the auditor will produce an annual audit plan, consider regulatory requirements, and liaise with Senior Management and external parties. Responsibilities include delivering the annual audit plan, monitoring regulatory developments, and collaborating with peers to address key risks related to intra-group outsourcing services.

Responsibilities of the role:

• Reporting to the Audit Head – ila Bank and Group Retail, the job holder will: Perform continuous business monitoring over ila bank’s strategy, performance, new products & services and risk profile.
• Support the preparation of ila bank’s risk-based Annual Internal Audit Plan.
• Support the delivery of the approved Annual Internal Audit Plan which entails developing risk & control Matrix and testing strategy & Programs, plan the scope of individual assignments, ensure work is captured within the GRC tool, Produce, and discuss audit issues
• Communicate the result of Internal Audit assignments to Senior Management.
• Maintain adequate records and evidence of the assignments performed, including the evaluations made during assignments, in accordance with professional Internal Audit standards.
• Liaise with the ila bank’s External Audit firm as and when required.
• Monitor the resolution of Internal Audit issues by the Bank’s Senior Management.
• Maintain ongoing communication and partnership with peers and the wider Group Audit team as required.
• Conduct ad-hoc reviews and assignments as requested by the Group Chief Auditor, Senior management, or Board Audit Committee.
• As a Third Line role, the individual has responsibility for risk, compliance and control only insofar as they are relevant to the Internal Audit function. To preserve independence of the Internal Audit function, the individual may not make decisions on or undertake risk management or control activities that are the responsibility of the First and Second Lines of Defense.
• The role is guided by and must comply with all applicable standards set by the Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors reflected on the Group Audit Manual.
• The individual must always maintain their independence and objectivity in the performance of duties.
• Act in accordance with the Bank’s Code of Conduct and applicable Conduct rules as set by the Regulators.
• Integrity, due professional care and attention are key attributes.
• The individual must report material risks and issues identified through the performance of Internal Audit activities to the Senior Management on a timely basis. Matters regarding inappropriate culture and behaviours will be reported to the Senior Management.
• Deal with regulators and other competent authorities in an open and cooperative manner.

Areas of Knowledge, Qualification and Experience

• At least 10 years’ Internal Audit experience within the Banking / Financial Services industry, preferably with retail & digital banking products and services (multi-national experience preferred).
• Bachelor’s degree preferably in finance, economics, accounting, banking, auditing, management, or related subjects.
• Professional certification (preferable) such as CIA or working towards this. Post graduate degree and or professional qualifications are desirable.
• Strong understanding of Information & Cyber Security, Personal Data Protection and Operational Resilience
• Advanced knowledge & application of audit methodology
• Solid knowledge of banking, corporate governance, and the 3 lines model
• Excellent spoken and written English language skills
• Proficiency in at least one other ABC business language (Arabic, French,) would be desirable
• Theoretical & practical knowledge and understanding of the operations, structure and supporting Information Technologies of a retail digital bank, the underlying eco-system, including associated risks & regulatory requirements, gained from significant time working within the Banking / Financial Services industry
• Familiar with the regulatory environment under which banks are operating
• Familiar with industry best practices and control frameworks
• Strong communication skills (listening, oral, written and presenting) to enable the explanation and presentation of information in a structured, clear, and concise way
• Ability to communicate and influence colleagues at all levels
• Strong project management skills, using project planning techniques to plan and co-ordinate work effectively
• Ability to work under pressure to tight timescales whilst paying attention to detail
• Strong team player skills and ability to work in a multicultural environment
• Inquisitive personality whilst being pragmatic and objective
• Maintain and demonstrate the highest standards of integrity and resilience.

• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to achieve business objectives for the retail banking sector.
• Manage and optimize branch operations, ATM networks, and digital banking channels.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant banking regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Oversee risk management frameworks and implement controls to mitigate operational risks.
• Drive initiatives for service excellence and customer satisfaction across all retail touchpoints.
• Lead and mentor a large team of operational managers and staff, promoting professional development and performance.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and technology adoption to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
• Manage budgets, resource allocation, and P&L for the retail banking operations division.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including product development, marketing, and IT.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and report on operational performance to senior management.

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Finance, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in retail banking operations, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven track record of managing large-scale operational functions and driving significant improvements.
• Expertise in banking regulations, compliance, and risk management.
• Strong understanding of banking technologies and digital transformation in the financial services industry.
• Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and change management skills.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Outstanding communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Experience in budget management and financial oversight.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment, balancing office and remote responsibilities.

• Plan, execute, and manage financial, operational, and compliance audits for the financial services sector.
• Assess the design and operating effectiveness of internal controls.
• Identify and document control deficiencies, risks, and inefficiencies.
• Develop practical and cost-effective recommendations to address audit findings.
• Prepare clear, concise, and well-supported audit reports for management and audit committee review.
• Communicate audit scope, objectives, and findings effectively to auditees and stakeholders.
• Follow up on the implementation of audit recommendations and test their effectiveness.
• Stay current with industry best practices, regulatory changes, and emerging risks in financial services.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with management and staff across various departments.
• Contribute to the annual audit planning process by identifying key risks and control areas.
• Mentor and provide guidance to junior auditors.
• Ensure adherence to professional auditing standards (e.g., IIA Standards).
• Perform special investigations as requested by senior management or the Audit Committee.
• Assist external auditors as needed.

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in internal audit, external audit, or a related risk management role, preferably within the financial services industry.
• Professional certification such as CIA (Certified Internal Auditor), CPA (Certified Public Accountant), or CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of financial services products, operations, and regulatory environments (e.g., Central Bank regulations).
• Proficiency in audit methodologies, risk assessment, and control evaluation.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to draft comprehensive audit reports.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to interact effectively with all levels of management.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel. Experience with data analytics tools is a plus.
• Ability to manage multiple audit projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Integrity, objectivity, and a commitment to professional ethics.

• Conduct comprehensive searches for senior leadership and executive positions within the financial services industry, including banking, asset management, fintech, and insurance.
• Develop and execute sophisticated sourcing strategies to identify high-caliber passive candidates through research, networking, and direct engagement.
• Build and maintain robust talent pipelines for critical roles and emerging leadership needs.
• Conduct in-depth interviews and assessments to evaluate candidates' skills, experience, leadership potential, and cultural fit.
• Partner closely with clients to understand their organizational needs, strategic objectives, and the specific requirements of each executive search.
• Provide expert market intelligence and insights on compensation, talent availability, and industry trends.
• Manage the entire recruitment process, from initial client briefing to offer negotiation and successful placement.
• Maintain impeccable candidate and client relationships, ensuring a seamless and professional experience.
• Represent the firm with the highest levels of integrity and professionalism.
• Utilize advanced recruitment technologies and CRM systems to track candidate progress and manage search engagements.
• Contribute to the firm's knowledge base and best practices in executive search.

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in executive search or retained recruitment, with a significant focus on the Financial Services sector.
• Proven success in sourcing and placing senior-level executives (e.g., VP, Director, C-suite).
• Demonstrated ability to thrive and excel in a fully remote work environment.
• Exceptional networking, relationship-building, and influencing skills.
• Deep understanding of the financial services landscape, key players, and talent market dynamics.
• Strong research and analytical capabilities.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple complex searches simultaneously with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Economics, or a related field.
• Proficiency in using executive search databases and CRM tools.

• Gain broad exposure to different facets of the financial services industry.
• Receive dedicated mentorship from experienced professionals within the firm.
• Participate in a structured training curriculum covering essential financial concepts and industry best practices.
• Contribute to real-world projects and initiatives within various teams.
• Develop a strong understanding of market dynamics, financial products, and client service standards.
• Network with professionals across the organization and build valuable career connections.
• Learn about regulatory compliance and ethical conduct in the financial sector.
• Opportunities for career advancement upon successful completion of the program.

• Recent graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, Accounting, or a related field.
• Strong academic record and a demonstrated passion for the financial services industry.
• Excellent analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Proactive attitude, eager to learn, and a strong work ethic.
• Ability to adapt to a hybrid work environment, balancing remote learning with in-office collaboration.
• Must be eligible to work in the location and willing to commute to Saar, Northern, BH for on-site components of the role.
• Seeking individuals who are driven, detail-oriented, and committed to professional growth.

• Plan, execute, and finalize complex financial, operational, and compliance audits in accordance with established audit programs and professional standards.
• Assess internal controls, identify control weaknesses, and recommend practical solutions to mitigate risks.
• Evaluate the accuracy and reliability of financial records and reports, ensuring adherence to accounting principles and regulatory requirements.
• Perform detailed testing of key business processes, including revenue recognition, expense management, and regulatory compliance.
• Communicate audit findings and recommendations clearly and concisely to management through well-written audit reports and presentations.
• Collaborate with auditees to develop action plans for addressing identified issues and monitor their timely implementation.
• Stay current with industry trends, regulatory changes, and emerging risks impacting the financial services sector.
• Conduct special investigations and reviews as requested by senior management.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with stakeholders across various departments.
• Mentor and train junior audit staff, providing guidance and oversight on audit engagements.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of the internal audit function's policies, procedures, and methodologies.

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related business field.
• Professional certification such as CPA, CIA (Certified Internal Auditor), or CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) is required.
• A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in internal or external audit, preferably within the financial services industry.
• In-depth knowledge of auditing standards, accounting principles (e.g., IFRS, GAAP), and relevant regulations (e.g., banking laws, AML regulations).
• Proven ability to plan and execute complex audit engagements, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present findings effectively to diverse audiences.
• Proficiency in audit software and data analytics tools is highly desirable.
• High degree of integrity, professionalism, and ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.