Job description

Company Description

At GISSAH, we artfully combine traditional and unique scent notes to evoke nostalgic pleasure and create memorable olfactory experiences. Our brand is dedicated to producing distinctive fragrances that connect individuals to cherished memories. Through innovation and creativity, GISSAH aims to deliver exceptional quality and unique sensory journeys. Join us and be a part of a company that is redefining the essence of fragrance.

Role Description:

1. Risk Management

• Develop, implement, and maintain an Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) framework aligned with company strategy and growth plans.
• Identify, assess, and monitor strategic, operational, financial, compliance, and reputational risks, with focus on retail operations and supply chain.
• Maintain and regularly update the Risk Register, including risk ratings, controls, and mitigation plans.
• Facilitate risk assessment workshops with business leaders and ensure ownership of key risks.
• Report key risks, emerging threats, and mitigation status to senior management and the Audit Committee.

2. Internal Control Framework

• Design, implement, and oversee an effective Internal Control Framework covering retail stores, warehouses, e-commerce (if applicable), and head office functions.
• Ensure controls are embedded across critical processes such as sales, cash handling, POS operations, inventory management, procurement, warehousing, and financial reporting.
• Periodically review and enhance controls to address business expansion, new store openings, and process changes.

3. Retail, Inventory & Shrinkage Controls

• Establish strong controls over high-value perfume inventory, including receiving, storage, transfers, promotions, returns, damages, and expiries.
• Monitor and analyze inventory shrinkage, pilferage, and obsolescence; investigate variances and recommend corrective actions.
• Oversee physical stock counts and cycle counts; review discrepancies and ensure timely resolution.

4. Financial & Operational Controls

• Review controls over cash management, discounts, promotions, loyalty programs, and gift schemes.
• Ensure accuracy and integrity of sales data, margins, and cost reporting from POS and ERP systems.
• Support finance teams during month-end and year-end close by validating key financial controls.

5. Compliance & Governance

• Ensure compliance with Kuwait regulatory requirements, company policies, and internal governance standards.
• Support Board and Audit Committee requirements related to risk management and internal control reporting.
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of policies, SOPs, and delegation of authority matrices.

6. Audits & Assurance

• Plan and conduct risk-based internal reviews and control assessments across business units.
• Coordinate with external auditors and regulatory reviewers.
• Track audit findings and ensure timely implementation and closure of management action plans.

7. Fraud Prevention & Investigations

• Design and implement fraud risk management and prevention mechanisms.
• Lead investigations into suspected fraud, control breaches, or unethical practices.
• Recommend disciplinary actions and control enhancements based on investigation outcomes.

8. Systems & Process Improvement

• Work closely with IT and operations teams to strengthen controls within ERP, POS, and inventory systems.
• Support system implementations, upgrades, and automation initiatives from a risk and control perspective.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency while maintaining strong controls.

9. Training & Awareness

• Conduct training and awareness sessions on risk management, internal controls, and compliance for store managers and corporate teams.

Promote a strong risk-aware and control-focused culture across the organization

Education & Knowledge:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field
• Professional certification (CA, CIA, CRMA, CPA, ACCA, CIMA) preferred
• 7–10+ years of experience in risk management, internal control, or internal audit
• Prior experience in Retail, FMCG, luxury, or beauty/perfume industry is highly desirable

Experience in the GCC / Kuwait market is an advantage

Skills

Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of ERM and internal control frameworks
• Deep understanding of retail operations and inventory processes
• Excellent analytical, investigative, and problem-solving skills
• Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities
• High integrity, independence, and sound professional judgment
• Proficiency in ERP systems, POS platforms, and MS Office

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Effectiveness of risk mitigation and control environment
• Reduction in inventory losses and shrinkage
• Timely closure of audit and control findings
• Compliance with RMIC policies and procedures
• Quality and timeliness of risk reporting to management