Head of Internal Audit

Job Description

Together, we are Aviva. Our values — Care, Commitment, Community, and Confidence — guide how we show up for each other and for our customers. Individually, they’re words. Together, they define who we are.

We’re seeking a Vice President, Internal Audit to help us deliver on our mission: to protect the assets, reputation, and long‑term sustainability of Aviva. This is a key leadership role within Canada, whereby the individual oversees the development and delivery of the Canadian audit plan and other strategic initiatives as part of a global Internal Audit function.

If you’re a strategic audit leader with deep technical expertise, a passion for elevating control environments, and a thirst for innovation, we want to meet you.

What You’ll Do

Strategic Leadership & Audit Planning

• Co‑lead the development and execution of the Canadian audit plan.
• Apply deep knowledge of emerging risks to set audit priorities, including ad‑hoc and tailored audit work as required.
• Manage audit resourcing, scheduling, and allocation, ensuring effective coverage through sound risk analysis and judgment.
• Oversee the effective use of technical specialists to support audit delivery.

Audit Delivery & Quality Management

• Lead a portfolio of audit reviews, ensuring outcomes meet Internal Audit methodology and quality standards.
• Deliver timely, clear, and actionable audit findings and reports.
• Ensure ongoing issue tracking and follow‑up to support effective risk remediation.
• Drive audit innovation and continuous improvement initiatives, including, but not limited to the use of AI tools and approaches.

Stakeholder Influence & Reporting

• Build and maintain strong relationships with senior leaders across the business.
• Contribute to reporting for Audit, Risk, and Board Committees, influencing enhancements to the overall controls framework.
• Champion the application and evolution of Internal Audit methodology.

People Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high‑performing team, ensuring a strong talent strategy supports recruitment, growth, performance, and engagement.
• Set clear objectives, provide ongoing feedback, and support career development in line with Aviva’s people leadership expectations.
• Empower and oversee the implementation of continuous improvement activities across the IA function.

Operational & Financial Management

• Oversee review budgets, audit portfolios, and relevant departmental budget responsibilities.
• Contribute to internal audit projects and enterprise‑wide initiatives that extend beyond your immediate portfolio.

What You Bring

• Degree or equivalent experience; professional designation strongly preferred.
• Professional qualification in audit, risk, accounting, actuarial science, or equivalent experience.
• Technical knowledge and experience auditing Financial, Commercial, Operational and Insurance Risk.
• Extensive experience in internal audit, enterprise risk management, or consulting within financial services or insurance.
• Proven success leading complex reviews, guiding teams, and influencing senior stakeholders.
• Strong judgment, communication skills, and the ability to translate complex issues into clear insights and recommendations.
• Demonstrated integrity, independence, and commitment to audit excellence.

What You’ll Get

• A competitive rewards package including base salary, annual bonus eligibility, retirement savings, share plan, health benefits, wellness programs, and volunteer opportunities.
• Exceptional opportunities for career growth and professional development.
• Support for continuing education and professional certifications.
• Hybrid, flexible work arrangements that support balance and well‑being.
• Employee‑driven Diversity & Inclusion programs (gender, LGBTQ+, origins, inclusion communities).
• Option to purchase up to 5 additional vacation days each year.

Additional Information:

Aviva Canada has an accommodation process in place to provide accommodations for employees with disabilities. If upon commencement of employment you require a specific accommodation because of a disability, please contact your Talent Acquisition Partner so that an appropriate accommodation can be arranged. This process applies throughout your career with Aviva Canada.