External Audit Director Financial Services, Cayman Islands

A unique opportunity for an External Audit Director with the opportunity to become an Equity Director in a short time.  With its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant culture, the Cayman Islands offer a remarkable quality of life and a desirable work-life balance.

About the Company:

This role is with a leading accounting and advisory firm with a strong presence in the Cayman Islands. With a focus on delivering exceptional client service, you will provide a comprehensive range of audit services to a diverse portfolio of local and international clients, including fund management and insurance companies. This firm is known for its commitment to excellence, professionalism, and integrity.

About the Cayman Islands:

The Cayman Islands, located in the Caribbean Sea, is a globally renowned financial hub known for its stability, tax neutrality, and sophisticated financial services industry. With its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant culture, the Cayman Islands offer a remarkable quality of life and a desirable work-life balance. As a leading international financial centre , the Cayman Islands attracts top-tier professionals from around the world who seek to work in a dynamic and thriving business environment.

Job Description:

As an Audit Director in Funds, you will assume a pivotal leadership role within our firm's audit practice. You will be responsible for overseeing and managing audits of investment funds , insurance companies and other financial services entities , ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and accounting standards. This role requires extensive knowledge of the fund industry, audit methodologies, and relevant regulations, as well as proven experience in managing and leading audit engagements.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage audit engagements of investment funds, including hedge funds, private equity funds, and mutual funds.
• Plan and execute audit procedures in accordance with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and internal policies.
• Review financial statements, audit findings, and supporting documentation to ensure accuracy, completeness, and adherence to applicable accounting standards.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with fund management clients, providing exceptional client service and serving as a trusted advisor.
• Monitor and assess the effectiveness of internal controls within client organizations, identifying areas for improvement and making recommendations.
• Stay updated on changes to relevant laws, regulations, and accounting standards, and ensure compliance in audit engagements.
• Supervise and mentor audit staff, providing guidance, training, and performance evaluations.
• Collaborate with other departments, such as tax and consulting, to provide integrated solutions and comprehensive client service.
• Identify opportunities for business development and contribute to the growth of the firm's fund audit practice.
• Uphold the firm's reputation for professionalism, integrity, and quality in all interactions and deliverables.

The ideal applicant will have:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. Professional certifications such as CPA, CA, or ACCA
• Currently at Director level in an offshore location or an experienced Senior Manager upwards in the Cayman Islands on the cusp of gaining sign off rights as a Licenced Cayman Islands Institute of Professional Accountants Practitioner
• Extensive experience in auditing offshore investment funds, including exposure to hedge funds, private equity funds, and mutual funds.
• Strong knowledge of fund industry regulations, accounting standards (such as IFRS and US GAAP), and audit methodologies
• Proven track record of successfully leading and managing audit engagements, including client relationships, staff supervision, and project delivery
• In-depth understanding of internal controls and risk assessment within the fund industry
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with keen attention to detail.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with clients and colleagues.
• Proficient in using audit software and other relevant technology tools.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and benefits package, commensurate with experience.
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional development with the opportunity to quickly become an Equity Director/Partne