Audit Cross-Function - Quality Assurance Tester (AVP)

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

We are seeking an Assistant Vice President (AVP) – Quality Assurance (QA) Tester within the Internal Audit Department. This role provides independent assurance on the quality and consistency of Internal Audit work across SMBC Bank International plc (SMBC BI), SMBC Nikko Capital Markets, SMBC Branches, and other EMEA subsidiaries. The AVP QA Tester ensures that audit deliverables meet internal methodology, regulatory expectations, and professional standards. The role involves reviewing audit reports, findings, and processes, identifying areas for improvement, and supporting continuous enhancement of audit quality.

Business Area

The Audit Department Internal Audit Group (ADIA) evaluates key control designs and operations, providing assurance on the Internal Control Environment and Management Control Approach. ADIA delivers approximately 80 audit reports annually across EMEA and undertakes ad-hoc assignments. In line with the Code for Internal Audit of Financial Services firms, the QA function operates independently from audit execution to ensure compliance with the Audit Department Manual and global standards. QA activities include quarterly reviews, reporting, and collaboration with the Professional Practice Group in Tokyo.

Position Description

Supporting a team of approximately 68 audit professionals across EMEA, the AVP QA Tester will:

• Perform QA reviews on selected audit reports and thematic areas each quarter in line with the QA Plan.
• Conduct QA on closed or extended audit findings and management self-identified issues.
• Prepare quarterly QA summary reports for Audit Management.
• Identify training needs based on QA results and support the QA team in delivering methodology-specific training where required.
• Provide live QA support during ongoing audits and advise teams on methodology compliance.
• Recommend enhancements to QA processes for continuous improvement.

This role is internally focused and requires strong collaboration with audit teams and management.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver timely QA reviews aligned with EMEA audit methodology, IIA standards, and regulatory expectations.
• Assist in executing reviews based on quarterly QA review themes.
• Document QA findings and agree on remediation actions with Audit Partners and AICs.
• Support inflight audits through live QA and advisory input.
• Drive improvements in QA processes and tools.

Key Requirements & Competencies

• Experience: Previous internal audit or credit review experience with a strong track record in QA or audit delivery.
• Technical Knowledge: Detailed understanding of internal audit policies, procedures, and IIA standards.
• Analytical Skills: Ability to assess audit quality, identify gaps, and recommend improvements.
• Communication: Strong ability to provide constructive feedback and resolve conflicts professionally.
• Attention to Detail: High accuracy in validating factual information and preparing management reports.
• Qualifications: Degree-level education and professional certification (ACA, ACCA, CIA, or equivalent) desirable.

Challenges of the Role

• Managing potential conflicts with audit teams during QA discussions.
• Meeting tight timelines for QA reviews, particularly during global review cycles.
• Balancing multiple QA priorities while maintaining quality and consistency.

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!!