We are currently seeking a Senior Internal Auditor to join our team.

The Senior Internal Auditor is accountable for leading assigned assurance and consulting engagements or executing assigned parts thereof as per the annual Audit Plan with the primary focus of evaluating and improving the effectiveness of First West’s (FW) risk management, control and governance processes. This role interacts directly with stakeholders at FW and provides a high level of professional service in line with the Institute of Internal Auditors’ “International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing, the Definition of Internal Auditing, and the Code of Ethics” (“IIA Standards”).

We are open to filling this role across Canada, however, please note preference will be given to those that are located in BC due to the proximity of our office locations. To be considered for this role, when applying, you must be eligible to work in Canada.

Here’s what would be included as a part of your typical day

• Audit Delivery : Leads assigned assurance and consulting engagements or executes assigned parts thereof. Plans the objectives and scope for assigned assurance and consulting engagements using a risk-based approach or assists internal audit management in doing so. Designs and develops risk-based audit programs and related procedures for such areas to address the objectives or assists internal audit management in doing so. Completes files within time budgets and target dates, and/or reviews peer or junior staff’s files/work to ensure sufficient work was completed and evidence obtained to meet the objectives of the engagement.

• Reporting and Communication : Investigates audit observations to identify root causes of control deficiencies. Writes concise, risk-focused reports with practical recommendations. Communicates with and engages stakeholders in a diplomatic and tactful manner, in discussions of audit observations, risks and recommendations. Ensures open communication with other members of the Internal Audit department, as well as other employees, members of management, risk, and other organizational partners, in the areas of risk management, governance, regulatory compliance, and internal policies/procedures.

• Assistance and Guidance : Contributes to and assists internal audit management in the execution of the audit plan, and other department priorities and initiatives. Provides guidance, training, and functional advice to lesser experienced and junior Internal Audit team members in execution of their audit work and learning and professional development. Provides advice to and performs value-add activities for management, without compromising independence and objectivity, on risk management, internal control and governance processes, and recommends process improvements to mitigate risk to First West.

• Professional Standards : Ensures adherence to the IIA Standards and maintains a professional standard of conduct. Maintains an understanding of departmental audit quality standards, policies and procedures, industry regulations, and relevant organizational policies and procedures, and imparts that understanding to staff and incorporating it into all assurance, consulting, and value-add activities.

• Knowledge Management : Stays current with First West’s strategic priorities, governance and risk management processes, business operations, and risk environment, as well as changing regulations, and emerging risks. Keeps abreast of relevant governance, risk management and/or internal control frameworks (e.g., COSO, ISO 31000, etc.), as well as leading industry or professional practices and trends. Apply the knowledge, where applicable, while carrying out audit engagements or other relevant responsibilities.

Required Skills, Experience & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or equivalent required

• Accounting designation (CPA) or Audit designation (CIA) preferred or candidate is or is willing to work towards attaining.

• 3-5 years of internal audit experience, or 5+ years of progressively senior experience in a relevant discipline where expertise may be needed such as operations, finance, risk management and compliance, or lending — preferably within the financial services industry — is required.

• Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills, interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective relationships with a range of stakeholders

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to process information, reach appropriate conclusions, and develop practical recommendations to improve the overall effectiveness and efficiency of the organization

• Ability to exercise strong and sound professional judgment

• Must be proficient with MS Office products, especially Word, Excel and Powerpoint. Experience with audit software applications, such as TeamMate, considered beneficial.

• Strong time management skills: demonstrated ability to juggle priorities and meet deadlines

• Internal Audit related skills (candidates with significant industry experience rather than internal audit experience may not possess these skills)

  • Demonstrated knowledge of internal controls, risk management and risk-based auditing concepts, techniques, practices, standards and frameworks (e.g., COSO, ISO 31000, etc.)
  • Solid knowledge of the IIA Standards, as well as internal audit processes and methodologies
  • Strong business acumen, ideally within the financial services context

• Displays an understanding of risk and risk ownership by being able to demonstrate adherence to policies and procedures.

What’s in it for you:

First, we strive to make our team members feel genuinely rewarded. You’ll have:

• Mental health coverage and resources
• Customizable health benefits, as well as topped-up parental leave
• Performance-based compensation, employee banking advantages and group RRSP matching
• Vacation time and flexible work arrangements to support your lifestyle

We are committed to providing a fair, equitable, and competitive rewards package that reflects the value an individual brings to our organization. The compensation mentioned in this job posting should serve as a guide. The total cash compensation earned may vary based on a variety of factors including bonuses and/or incentives, an individual’s skills and experience, and may correlate with performance in the role.

We also provide and encourage opportunities for our employees to make a meaningful impact. After all, as a credit union we’re powered by giving back—in big ways and through small gestures. That's why we offer employees paid time off to volunteer, partner with thousands of local charities, build long-lasting relationships that help our members get ahead and commit to environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices.

By joining our team, you’ll be able to elevate your potential. Wherever your own purpose leads, we’re here to support you with award-winning in-house training programs, access to LinkedIn Learning, and reimbursement for external courses to help you get ahead.

Take the next step in your career as part of our team. Apply for this opportunity!

Candidates, please note: if you are being considered for this role, you will be required to complete a background check, such as employment verification, credit check and criminal record check.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging

At First West Credit Union, we embrace diversity regardless of gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, religion, race, ethnicity, age, diverse ability, and any aspect that makes someone unique. Inclusion is woven through our organization, from our employee-led network groups, hiring practices and education programs that address barriers and continually grow our equitable, diverse and inclusive culture.

We encourage people who are from equity-deserving groups to apply for a career with us, including women or non-binary people, persons with diverse abilities, Black, Indigenous Peoples, People of Colour and members of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.

If an accommodation would help you during the process of applying or interviewing for a career with us, please let us know how we can assist you, whether it’s preparing materials in an alternate format, booking an accessible meeting room or other arrangement.

Your individuality is welcome here.

About Us

We’re a financial cooperative that does things differently. We provide time-tested advice that helps our members feel optimistic about their future, and we offer comprehensive banking solutions that enable people to confidently reach their goals. With the financial strength and extended branch network of a large financial institution, we maintain local connections to our communities and take a unique grassroots approach to service. Our more than 250,000 members and approximately 1,250 employees operate from 45 branches throughout the province of BC, under the Envision Financial, Valley First, Island Savings and Enderby & District Financial brands. Visit firstwestcu.ca for more information on First West Credit Union.

Please know we appreciate your interest in us but only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.