Assurance Specialist: Management Assurance

Job Description

Absa is looking for an Assurance Specialist to execute management assurance reviews across business units. The role ensures compliance with internal policies, regulatory frameworks, and effective control implementation. This position plays a key role in strengthening the internal control environment through systematic reviews, issue tracking, and collaboration with stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree or Advanced Diploma in Internal Audit, Regulatory discipline, or related field (NQF level 7 or higher)
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in risk-based auditing, risk, or control-related activities
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in banking through audit or financial crime-related roles (e.g., KYC/AML)
• Sound understanding of banking legislation, compliance standards, and regulatory frameworks
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Strong grasp of internal control principles and risk management
• Analytical thinking with the ability to assess complex processes
• Familiarity with risk-based audit methodologies and control assessments
• Strong verbal and written communication skills for professional reporting and stakeholder interaction

Responsibilities

• Conduct assurance reviews, including process documentation, risk identification, and control assessment in line with the Management Assurance Methodology
• Complete and get sign-off on detailed working papers and provide continuous feedback to Business Unit Management on control failures
• Host close-out sessions with stakeholders to discuss findings, gain consensus on issues, and agree on remedial actions
• Track remediation efforts, verify implementation through documentation review and spot checks, and update the Issue Tracker monthly
• Develop clear, concise, and high-quality assurance reports (draft and final) for business units
• Manage assignments within designated timelines as specified in engagement agreements
• Maintain ongoing relationships with business unit leaders to position Management Assurance as a valued partner
• Ensure business units understand their responsibility for risk and control ownership
• Proactively collaborate with team members to promote knowledge sharing, improve monitoring effectiveness, and encourage professional conduct