Head of Internal Audit Cigna

Role Summary

The Cigna Group is looking for talented people with prior audit experience who are interested in being a part of The Cigna Group's rapidly evolving healthcare strategy. This is a new leadership position as the Head of Internal Audit for Cigna Worldwide Insurance Company Branch (CWIC) overseeing internal audit activities for Cigna s business in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and being the Internal Audit registered function holder with the Saudi regulator. This leader will be responsible for establishing a best-in-class internal audit function, including management relationships with key stakeholders, and the developing and delivering a dynamic audit plan.

This role is based in the Cigna s Office in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and will report to the local Chief Executive Officer with a dotted line to the Head of International Health Internal Audit.

Internal Audit has a critical role in ensuring the Company accomplishes its objectives by bringing a systematic, disciplined approach to evaluate and improve the effectiveness of risk management, control, and governance processes. As part of the International Health Audit team, you will have an active role in supporting and acting as an advisor to senior management and other stakeholders in providing value-added audit recommendations to mitigate risks, and drive efficiencies.

To achieve best in class service for our stakeholders, Internal Audit supports individual and team development through various trainings, coaching, and internal/external development opportunities. Additionally, we support the attainment, and maintenance of, relevant certifications for ongoing professional growth.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as the registered Internal Audit function holder with the Saudi Insurance Authority.
• Ensure all audit activities comply with Saudi governance standards.
• Collaborate with the Head of International Health Internal Audit on governance frameworks, regulatory filings and management reporting.
• Develop the annual audit plan for the Saudi branch based on a robust risk-assessment process and regulatory requirements.
• Lead end-to-end audit engagements: scoping, fieldwork, issue tracking, reporting and follow-up.
• Oversee co-sourced audit partners allocate assignments, manage budgets, monitor quality and resolve escalations promptly.
• Build and maintain independent relationships with senior business, technology and enabling-function leaders.
• Present clear, concise and actionable audit findings to the CEO, Audit Committee and regulatory bodies.
• Represent Internal Audit in enterprise steering and operational committees.
• Drive coordination across the three lines of defense to maximize assurance coverage and avoid duplication.
• Provide value-added recommendations that enhance controls, streamline processes and mitigate emerging risks.
• Monitor and verify management action plans to ensure timely and effective remediation of audit findings.

Skills and Requirements

• Minimum of 6 years experience in internal and/or external audit within the insurance industry and/or other financial services sectors
• Holding or pursuing professional certifications such as CPA or CIA.
• Deep understanding of auditing principles, audit standards and control frameworks.
• Direct experience with Saudi healthcare and insurance regulations is preferable.
• Proven ability to work independently, manage deadlines and maintain confidentiality.
• Proven experience of navigating complex environments and track record of influencing senior stakeholders to drive control improvements.
• Prior co-sourcing management experience and familiarity with three-lines-of-defence models is desirable.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule to accommodate project deadlines and travel.
• Team player.
• Fluency in English and Arabic, with excellent verbal and written communication skills.