Internal Control/Audit Officer

Internal Control Officer
Location: Elele, Rivers State
Industry: Agriculture/Farming
Job Summary
We are seeking a highly analytical and detail-oriented Internal Control Officer to establish, monitor, and strengthen internal control systems across our agricultural farming operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring compliance with company policies, safeguarding company assets, preventing fraud, minimizing operational risks, and improving operational efficiency.

The ideal candidate must possess extensive experience in internal control functions, particularly within an agricultural or agro-allied environment, and have a strong understanding of farm operations, inventory management, workforce monitoring, and operational compliance.

Key Responsibilities
Internal Control and Compliance
Develop, implement, and monitor internal control procedures across all farm operations.
Conduct regular audits and compliance checks to ensure adherence to company policies and procedures.
Identify operational risks and recommend corrective actions.
Ensure compliance with statutory regulations and internal policies.
Operational Monitoring
Monitor daily farm activities to ensure operational efficiency and accountability.
Verify compliance with approved operational processes and procedures.
Conduct routine and surprise inspections of farm facilities, assets, and activities.
Investigate operational irregularities and report findings to management.
Inventory and Asset Control
Monitor the movement and utilization of farm inputs, equipment, tools, feed, chemicals, fertilizers, and other assets.
Conduct periodic inventory counts and reconciliation exercises.
Ensure proper documentation and accountability for company resources.
Investigate inventory variances and losses.
Financial and Administrative Control
Review operational expenditures and ensure compliance with approved budgets.
Verify payment requests, procurement processes, and expense documentation.
Monitor payroll-related activities to ensure accuracy and prevent irregularities.
Assess financial controls and recommend improvements where necessary.
Risk Management and Fraud Prevention
Identify potential fraud risks and control weaknesses.
Conduct investigations into suspected fraud, theft, misconduct, or policy violations.
Recommend measures to mitigate operational and financial risks.
Monitor implementation of corrective actions arising from audit findings.
Reporting
Prepare periodic internal control reports and management reports.
Document audit findings, observations, and recommendations.
Track implementation of corrective actions and follow-up on outstanding issues.
Provide management with insights to improve operational efficiency and control effectiveness.
Job Requirements
Education
Bachelor’s Degree or HND in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Economics, Agricultural Economics, Audit, or a related field.
Experience
Minimum of 4–7 years proven experience in Internal Control, Internal Audit, Risk Management, Compliance, or related functions.
Must have practical experience in Internal Control operations within an Agricultural Farm, Agro-Allied Company, Plantation, Livestock Farm, Fish Farm, Poultry Farm, or similar agricultural environment.
Experience conducting operational audits, inventory audits, compliance reviews, and investigations is required.
Hands-on experience in farm operations will be an added advantage.
Knowledge and Skills
Strong knowledge of internal control principles, risk management, and compliance processes.
Good understanding of agricultural operations and farm-based business processes.
Experience in inventory management and asset control.
Strong analytical and investigative skills.
Excellent report writing and documentation skills.
Knowledge of Nigerian business regulations and compliance requirements.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.
Ability to identify process gaps and recommend practical solutions.
Competencies
High level of integrity and professionalism.
Strong attention to detail.
Excellent observation and investigative abilities.
Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work independently and make objective decisions.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
Additional Requirements
Experience in any farm operation, including crop farming, poultry farming, fish farming, livestock farming, plantation management, or agro-processing activities, will be an added advantage.
Professional certifications such as ACA, ACCA, CIA, CISA, CRMA, or related certifications will be an added advantage.
Must be willing to relocate if required.
Ability to work in a farm environment and conduct regular field inspections.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Reduction in operational losses and inventory variances.
Compliance rate with internal policies and procedures.
Timely completion of audits and investigations.
Effectiveness of risk mitigation measures.
Accuracy of inventory and asset records.
Timely submission of internal control reports.
Reduction in fraud incidents and control breaches.
Application Process
Interested and qualified candidates should submit their CV/Application to the company’s designated email address reliablesteelplasticrecruit@gmail.com with the job role as the subject.