Internal Audit Manager
Position Description
The Fonterra Internal Audit vision is to be a trusted advisor and business partner, enabling delivery of Fonterra’s strategic objectives though independent and objective assurance. As our new Internal Audit Manager, you will play a critical role in safeguarding that trust, leading complex audit engagements, shaping risk conversations, and driving continuous improvement across the Co-operative.
Reporting to the General Manager Internal Audit, you will manage a portfolio of audits that span business units, geographies, and strategic priorities. You will lead with confidence, engage senior stakeholders, and deliver assurance that’s not just robust but respected.
In this role, you will be provided with an opportunity to travel nationally and internationally.
What You’ll Do
You will be the engine behind our Annual Audit Plan, delivering high-quality reviews that identify risk, enhance controls, and add real value. You will lead audit teams, coach talent, and ensure every engagement is executed with precision and professionalism.
As an accomplished Internal Audit Manager with experience ideally gained within a multi-national organisation or professional services environment and have managed end-to-end assignments within complex and multinational organisations, you will be able to hit the ground running.
You will navigate ambiguity with ease, think on your feet, and have a great “make it happen”, agile mindset. You have a natural talent for establishing and nurturing relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders. As an excellent communicator, you are able to build trust and rapport with General Managers and Directors.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading and delivering a portfolio of internal audits across diverse business areas
- Managing stakeholder relationships to ensure transparency and “no surprises” audit experiences
- Driving strategic initiatives and supporting the development of the annual audit plan
- Preparing and reviewing audit scope, audit programs, work papers, and reports to meet professional standards
- Coaching auditors and fostering a collaborative, high-performing team culture
- Championing Fonterra’s values and promoting the profile of Internal Audit across the business.
About You | Mōu
You are a trusted advisor with sharp instincts and a bias for action. You know how to navigate complexity, challenge the status quo, and influence change, all while maintaining the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.
You bring:
- A bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
- A professional certification such as CPA, CA, CIA, or CISA (postgrad degree like an MBA is a plus).
- 10+ years of experience in internal/external audit or risk management, including 3+ years in leadership.
- Proven ability to lead complex audit engagements and manage competing priorities.
- Strong knowledge of risk frameworks, internal controls, artificial intelligence, and data analytics.
- Exceptional communication, stakeholder management, and project leadership skills.
- Possess strong technical business process and auditing skills, understand risk-based auditing and have robust experience in Project Management, including delegating and coaching.
- Proven experience in building relationships quickly and navigating different stakeholder needs and communicating clearly.
- Willingness to travel both nationally and internationally.
- Fair and equitable pay
- Health and well-being programs (medical, mental health support)
- Professional development opportunities
- Career growth support
- Work-life balance options (flexible/hybrid working where possible)
- Employee recognition
- Support for community involvement and cultural connection