Insurance Internal Audit | Strategic Exposure. Meaningful Impact.

This role is with a global insurance organisation operating in Japan as part of a large international group. The Internal Audit function forms part of a wider global audit community, providing exposure to international best practices, cross-border collaboration, and a broad range of business and risk topics. The organisation is actively enhancing its audit capabilities and is seeking professionals who can combine technical excellence with independent thinking and stakeholder influence.

The Internal Audit function is undergoing a significant transformation, creating a unique opportunity to contribute to the evolution of audit practices, strengthen stakeholder engagement, and help shape the future direction of the function. The successful individual will be expected to operate as a trusted advisor, providing independent challenge and practical insight to senior stakeholders.

Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage complex internal audit assignments across business and distribution activities.
- Plan and execute risk-based audits, including risk assessment, control evaluation, testing, reporting, and follow-up activities.
- Deliver independent and objective assurance to support effective risk management and governance.
- Build strong relationships with business leaders and become a trusted advisor on risk, controls, and operational effectiveness.
- Present audit findings, recommendations, and insights clearly to senior management and audit leadership.
- Contribute to the ongoing enhancement of audit quality, methodology, and professional standards.
- Support, coach, and develop junior auditors while promoting collaboration and knowledge sharing.
- Monitor management remediation plans and help drive sustainable business improvements.
- Collaborate with international audit colleagues and participate in broader global audit initiatives where relevant.

Why Consider This Opportunity?
- Play a meaningful role in the transformation of an Internal Audit function rather than simply executing established audit programmes.
- Influence audit quality, methodology, and standards within a global organisation.
- Continue developing as a technical audit expert without being pushed into a predominantly administrative management position.
- Gain visibility with senior management and key decision-makers.
- Work within an international audit community with exposure to global practices and cross-border collaboration.
- Contribute to business improvement initiatives that extend beyond traditional assurance activities.

Employee Benefits:
Social insurance and statutory benefits in accordance with Japanese law. Additional benefits are available and can be discussed during the recruitment process.

What Success Looks Like:
The ideal candidate is someone who is not content with simply completing audits. They are recognised for independent thinking, intellectual curiosity, constructive challenge, and the ability to influence stakeholders through credibility and insight. Success in this role will be measured not only by identifying risks and control issues, but by helping the business implement meaningful and sustainable improvements while contributing to the continued evolution of the Internal Audit function.

Requirements:
- Internal Audit experience within insurance, financial services, or a similarly regulated environment.
- Strong understanding of audit methodology, risk assessment, internal controls, and governance frameworks.
- Experience leading audit engagements and managing relationships with senior stakeholders.
- Business-level English and fluent Japanese communication skills, both written and spoken.
- Strong analytical capability combined with sound judgment and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently, challenge constructively, and communicate difficult messages professionally.

Don't meet every requirement?
Feel free to apply, as we also support opportunities beyond those advertised on our website.