Individual Consultant - Internal Auditor (Ia)

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST (CONSULTING SERVICES – INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANT)

Country: Ethiopia

Name of Project: The Building Institutions and Systems to Harness and Realize Agenda (BIASHARA) 2063 Project

Grant No: P180117

Assignment Title: Individual Consultant – Internal Auditor (IA)

Reference No. ET-AUC-549624-CS-INDV

The African Union Commission has received financing from the World Bank toward the cost of The Building Institutions and Systems to Harness and Realize Agenda (BIASHARA) 2063 Project and intends to apply part of the proceeds for consulting services. The consulting services (“the Services”) include providing objective assurance to the World Bank Group through the African Union Commission Office of Internal Oversight that: the governance processes, financial management and procurement processes comply with requirements; and that project procedures and internal controls are adequate and effective to mitigate current and emerging risks and fraud. Specific tasks include: Identify the strategic, operational, financial as well as compliance risks and ensure adequate reporting so that the risks are well mitigated or well managed. Conduct audits and investigate possible fraudulent behavior and communicate findings and recommend appropriate action to the Office of Internal Oversight Directorate and World Bank Group. Assess the significance of the organization’s risks and the effectiveness of risk management efforts, communicate these to management and develop recommendations to improve risk management. Conduct independent and objective assessments of the project’s operational, internal controls, and compliance process and ensure accuracy and transparency with established policies and procedures. Evaluate internal control efficiency and effectiveness and provide management assurance that the controls in place are adequate to respond to the risks that threaten the projects. Also examine operations to determine whether they are efficient and effective Ensure financial transactions’ accuracy and examine the reliability and integrity of financial and operational information. Track implementation of audit recommendations, report unresolved control weaknesses; and monitor corrective actions. Evaluate the procedures used to safeguard project assets from theft, fire, illegal activities, or other types of loss and make recommendations for enhanced protection. Prepare audit reports according to the procedures of the Office of Internal Oversight Interact with all Office of Internal Oversight staff to inform the scope of the assignment to be embarked on, and report the outcomes to the Office Of Internal Oversight Directorate. Carry out any other duties as may be assigned from time to time

The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment are attached to this Request for Expression of Interest. The African Union Commission now invites eligible individuals (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting criteria are: Academic qualifications and membership

Bachelor’s degree in auditing, finance, accounting, business, economics, or commerce. A professional audit or accounting qualification (Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Association of Certified Chartered Accountants (ACCA). An active member (in good standing) of a professional body would be an added advantage

Work experience

At least eight (8) years of experience in auditing (internal or external), risk and financial management, with a proven record in conducting internal audits and ensuring regulatory compliance Knowledge and experience of the World Bank's audit requirements will be a preference. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in managing and/or auditing donor funded projects

Technical proficiency

Relevant knowledge of International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) and the International Standards on Auditing (ISAs). Familiarity with auditing software tools, as well as solid understanding of accounting principles and project processes. Knowledge of Teammate plus audit software would be an added advantage Demonstrated ability to learn new technology quickly and effectively use it for maximum productivity.

Ethical standards

Strong ethical foundation and integrity are vital for handling sensitive and confidential information appropriately.

Analytical skills

Ability to research, analyze and synthesize information, interpret data, retrieve information from computerized accounting systems, and to summarize results clearly and concisely. Possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills to identify issues and inefficiencies within financial records and operational processes. Results-oriented personality with proven problem-solving skills, strong quantitative skills and attention to detail.

Communication and interpersonal skills

Strong communication skills with ability to prepare presentations and discuss findings in written and oral form. Capacity to function as a member of a diverse and multi-disciplinary team. Proficiency in English. A working knowledge of other AU official or working language (s) is an added advantage.

The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers” July 2016, revised November 2020 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Individual Consultant selection method set out in the Procurement Regulations. Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours i.e. 0900 to 1700 hours . Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by e-mail) by 06 Augu