Lead Auditor

Bank J Safra Sarasin seeks a Senior Lead Auditor in Basel to manage end-to-end internal audits, with specific responsibility for Panama and Bahamas operations.

This position requires an independent professional to plan and execute audits across various risk areas, including financial crime and business conduct. The role entails full ownership of the audit lifecycle for selected international locations, specifically Panama and the Bahamas, while serving as a key advisor to management and a subject matter expert within the Group Internal Audit function.

Responsibilities

• Manage the complete audit process from initial scoping through to final reporting, ensuring goals and deadlines are met.
• Produce clear, high-impact audit reports that effectively communicate findings.
• Act as a trusted advisor and sparring partner for management teams.
• Track and monitor the implementation of corrective measures.
• Prepare briefings and statements for the Head of Group Internal Audit, the Board of Directors, and other key decision-makers.
• Serve as the primary contact for Panama and Bahamas, handling annual risk assessments and activity planning.
• Contribute to special investigations and ad-hoc projects.
• Provide expert guidance on specific audit domains.

Requirements

• A banking apprenticeship, certified bank professional credential, higher business degree, or equivalent qualifications such as CIA or CFA.
• Minimum of five years of experience as a Lead Auditor within banking internal or external audit functions.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong analytical capabilities with the ability to prioritize issues and assess complex problems.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• A hands-on approach, strong work ethic, integrity, and high accountability.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the capacity to work autonomously.
• Willingness to travel internationally for approximately 30 days per year.
• Fluent English proficiency, including the ability to draft clear and impactful written texts.

Nice to have

• Certified public accountant qualification.
• Prior experience working with Avaloq systems.
• Working knowledge of German, French, or Spanish.

What the company offers

• An entrepreneurial environment within a family-owned bank.
• Central office locations across Switzerland.
• Above-average insurance coverage fully paid by the employer.
• Contributions toward health insurance and meal allowances.
• A stable environment supported by a global growth strategy.
• A competitive compensation package.

About the company

Bank J Safra Sarasin is a leading sustainable private bank with over 180 years of history and a presence in 30 locations worldwide. The firm provides dynamic, personalized services in investment advisory and asset management. The culture emphasizes entrepreneurship, high team spirit, and a positive attitude, while valuing employees' technical expertise, professional qualifications, and social skills.

• Leading sustainable private banking services.
• Values technical expertise and social skills.
• Over 180 years of operation across 30 global locations.
• Fosters entrepreneurship, team spirit, and a positive attitude.