Audit Cross-Function Director

Who we are

United by a sense of purpose towards our customers – to be a trusted partner for the long-term – and our universal banking platform in EMEA, SMBC Group has an international growth agenda and award-winning products, meaning we provide exciting opportunities to work on a diverse range of projects and initiatives. We deliver a full suite of corporate finance products and solutions to our customers as well as investment banking and advisory services, and a range of innovative solutions in global capital markets. Read on to find out how you could enhance your skills and gain valuable experience, by joining us to support our clients transition to a sustainable future.

Role Summary

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We are seeking a Audit Director (Operations) to join the Internal Audit Department (ADIA) in London. This role reports directly to the Audit COO (ACOO) and will support the operational strategy and its execution across EMEA audit functions. The Director will be responsible for driving operational excellence, shaping the department’s target operating model, and ensuring seamless delivery of audit operations. This position requires a leader who can balance strategic initiatives with operational rigor, fostering innovation and efficiency across the department.

Business Area

The Audit Department is an independent function comprising Internal Audit and Credit Review teams within SMBC Bank International plc, reporting to the Board Audit Committee. AD assesses the design and operating effectiveness of key controls across the organisation, delivering approximately 80 audit reports annually across EMEA. The Audit Business Operations function ensures the department operates efficiently, transparently, and in full compliance with internal and external standards.

Position Description

Reporting to the ACOO, the Audit Director will:

• Ensure delivery of the ongoing and new strategic initiatives to enhance audit operations, resource optimisation, and technology adoption.
• Support the annual audit planning cycle activities, risk assessments, departmental skills assessment and ensure alignment with organisational priorities.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory standards and enhancement of internal audit methodology within EMEA.
• Provide support and guidance to improve EMEA audit methodology and oversee the work of the QA team for timely delivery.
• Champion process improvements and automation to strengthen operational resilience.
• Support the operations team to ensure effective delivery of operational activities (MI reporting, vendor onboarding, system enhancements, expense approvals etc) across the Internal Audit Department in EMEA.

This role demands cross-regional coordination, and the ability to deliver transformational change in audit operations. The role will also have line management responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Support ACOO in effective execution of the operational strategy for Internal Audit across EMEA.
• Drive innovation in audit operations through technology, data analytics, and process automation.

Operational Excellence

• Support audit planning, scheduling, and resource allocation for optimal delivery.
• Support ACOO in monitoring audit delivery progress, QA, and Data Analytics activities, ensuring timely and high-quality outputs.
• Monitor KPIs and performance metrics to measure operational efficiency.

Governance & Compliance

• Maintain robust governance frameworks and ensure adherence to regulatory and internal standards.
• Oversee documentation management, including audit templates, policies, and methodologies.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Oversee the quality of MI being delivered to the Co-GMs for reporting to the Executive Committees, Board Audit Committees, and Head Office.
• Support Audit Partners and AICs by aligning operational priorities to their needs while improving efficiency within the department.

Risk & Methodology

• Work with the ACOO on the annual risk assessment process and ensure audit plans reflect emerging risks.
• Drive and support enhancements in audit methodology and QA processes.

Other Competencies

• Leadership Experience: Proven track record in leading operational teams within Internal Audit or related functions.
• Audit Expertise: Deep understanding of audit methodology, governance frameworks, and regulatory expectations.
• Operational Mastery: Expertise in managing complex planning cycles, resource optimization, and cross-regional operations.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Strong analytical skills and proficiency in audit systems (e.g., Archer).
• Influencing Skills: Ability to engage and guide less experienced team members.

Competencies

What we offer

For all the expertise and experience you bring to help us make a difference, it’s only sustainable if we support you to build your career and be your best self so we offer competitive company benefits, centred around promoting positive well-bring and work-life balance. We also believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment, where all team members perspectives and contributions are valued. Initiatives in place which promote a diverse and inclusive culture and healthy work life balance include hybrid working, Sport & Social Clubs and Diversity and Inclusion networks.

As an employee of SMBC you have access to a host of both useful and exciting benefit offerings. See below some of the benefits on offer to you:

• Hybrid and flexible working 
• Competitive paid leave days
• Benefits to support your physical wellbeing, including private medical insurance and life and invalidity insurance 
• Various policies to support your mental wellbeing, including a robust behavioural health network with counselling and coaching services  
• Access a wide range of learning and development opportunities and career progression opportunities 
• Ambitious remuneration package

So, if you like a challenge and want to continuously grow and develop in a role where you will be supported along the way by a dynamic and diverse team, apply today!!