Chief Audit Executive

Chief Audit Executive

ING Group

Brussels, Belgium

Your role & work environment

We are seeking a highly experienced and forward-thinking Chief Audit Executive (CAE) to lead our Internal Audit function, Corporate Audit Services (CAS). This is a pivotal leadership position within the organisation, accountable for providing independent, objective assurance on the effectiveness of governance, risk management, and internal control frameworks across all our business activities. Through a combination of expertise in technology, data analytics, and risk management, the team delivers actionable recommendations that support the organisation to address control deficiencies and drive continuous improvement. The CAE will work closely with the Audit Committee, Executive Committee, senior management, and external stakeholders to ensure the Internal Audit function operates with integrity, authority, and independence, in line with regulatory expectations and industry standards.

Your key responsibilities

As Chief Audit Executive, you will:

• Define and execute the Internal Audit strategy, ensuring alignment with the bank’s objectives, regulatory expectations, and international auditing standards;
• Develop and maintain a multi year, risk based audit plan that provides comprehensive audit coverage across all relevant entities and processes;
• Oversee the delivery of high quality audits and provide insightful, timely reporting to the Executive Committee and Audit Committee, including recurring assessments of internal control and risk management effectiveness;
• Maintain and strengthen the Internal Audit Charter, ensuring it reflects evolving regulatory requirements and best practices;
• Ensure the Internal Audit function has the right capabilities, including recruitment, training, career progression, and the deployment of specialist skills when needed;
• Act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership while preserving audit independence and objectivity at all times;
• Promote a strong audit culture, ensuring quality, consistency, and continuous improvement through a robust Quality Assurance and Improvement Programme;
• Engage with external auditors and supervisory authorities, representing the internal audit function during assessments, inspections, and reviews;
• Champion innovation within the audit function, including the effective use of data analytics, technology, and emerging audit methodologies.

Who are we looking for?

A leader with strong strategic vision, exceptional communication skills, and a passion for driving high-quality assurance. You are proactive, collaborative, and capable of influencing at Executive and Board level with advanced interpersonal abilities through experience in international and complex banking environments.

You are an excellent fit if you bring:

• Extensive senior‑level experience in internal audit within banking or financial services;
• Recognized professional qualifications (e.g., CPA, ACCA, CIA);
• Proven track record in executive leadership, including managing senior professionals and shaping organizational strategy;
• Deep understanding of risk management, internal controls, regulatory frameworks, and governance structures;
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to translate complex issues into actionable insights;
• Proven ability to lead diverse audit teams across geographies and subject matter domains;
• Strong communication skills and the ability to convey complex audit insights with clarity and strategic relevance;
• Ability to anticipate evolving risks, regulatory trends, and industry dynamics, ensuring the audit function remains future‑ready.

The ideal candidate is decisive and accountable, taking ownership of audit outcomes and supporting the development and success of your team members. Demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement, you actively seek innovative solutions and promote best practices within the audit function.