Founded in 1991, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) is a dynamic, international research university in relentless pursuit of excellence, leading the advance of and education in science, technology, business, humanities and social science. HKUST has the objective of becoming a world leading university with significant international impact and strong local commitment. Within its short history, the University has come to be regarded as a leading player in the international higher education scene. HKUST has been ranked among the top universities in Asia by the QS University Rankings.

The University is inviting applications from seasoned professionals to lead the University’s internal audit function to provide an independent and objective assurance on the effectiveness of the University’s governance and internal control framework adopted for the processes. The Internal Audit function also reviews the University’s processes to identify opportunities to streamline processes for efficiency improvement.

The Director will report to the President and be supported by the Vice-President for Administration and Business. The Director will also report to the Audit Committee of the Council to ensure independence of internal audit functions.

Responsibilities

► Develop a risk-based Internal Audit Plan that is aligned with the University’s risks, objectives and priorities for endorsement by Senior Management and approval by the Audit Committee; and complete audit assignments according to the approved Audit Plan

► Provide professional leadership to the internal audit team and outsourced consultants to deliver a value-added service, i.e. going beyond the traditional control and compliance audit to also advise on the efficiency and effectiveness of the University’s processes

► Coordinate the University’s strategic risk management exercise with the relevant stakeholders and present the results to Senior Management for approval

► Roll out control self-assessment exercise for the University’s key processes and present the summary of consolidated results to Senior Management and the Audit Committee

► Manage the whistleblowing process and whistleblowing investigations

► Coach and develop the internal audit team to adopt best industry practice; ensure the internal audit team remains up to date on professional standards/regulatory requirements and technological advances, including data analytics

► Serve as the Secretary for the Audit Committee

► Work in partnership with the University’s Legal Counsel for regulatory compliance

► Perform other duties related to internal audit as assigned by the Senior Management and Audit Committee from time to time

Qualifications and Experience Required

Candidates should possess a recognized university degree preferably in Accounting, Finance or Business Administration, and a professional qualification in accounting or internal audit. He/She should be a seasoned professional with substantial internal audit experience in a sizable, best practice organization of which at least 10 years are in a senior capacity. Excellent leadership, interpersonal and communication skills with service efficiency and proactive mindset, strong business acumen and management capability, and flexibility to adapt to changing environment are required. Familiarity and experience in a tertiary education setting is desirable. A good command of both written and spoken English and Chinese; and knowledge of management information systems, computer-based accounting systems and data analytics are expected.

Terms & Applications/Nominations

The post is a full-time appointment on a 3-year contract, renewable subject to mutual agreement. Competitive remuneration and generous fringe benefits, including housing where appropriate, will be provided. A gratuity will be payable upon completion of contract.

HKUST is being represented by Heidrick & Struggles for this search. Applications/nominations, together with a full curriculum vitae and the names and addresses of three referees, should be sent to 立即申請. Review of candidates will begin shortly and continue until the position is filled.

HKUST is committed to diversity in recruitment and equal opportunity employment. Additional information about the University is available on the website http://www.ust.hk.

(Information provided by applicants will be used for recruitment and other employment-related purposes.)