Director – Internal Audit

Role overview

The Internal Audit Director is responsible for leading and continuously enhancing the internal audit function to safeguard organizational assets, ensure compliance with regulatory requirements (including SOX), and support strategic objectives through risk-based audit activities. This role will stand up an independent Internal Audit function; design and execute a comprehensive audit plan covering financial, operational, IT, and compliance areas; oversee Sarbanes-Oxley testing and internal control evaluations; and partner with senior leaders and the Audit Committee to promote a strong control environment and risk-aware decision-making.

The Director will build and mentor a high-performance audit team, collaborate closely with external auditors, and work alongside the group that manages Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) to ensure that audit activities align with broader risk initiatives.

What you'll do

• Develop and execute a risk-based internal audit strategy and annual audit plan that addresses financial, operational, IT, and compliance risks and streamlines and boosts the efficiency of the company’s operations.
• Lead audits across all functions including operations, finance, compliance, and IT.
• Present findings and recommendations to executive leadership and the Audit Committee.
• Provide independent assurance on the adequacy, effectiveness and efficiency of internal controls and risk management processes.
• Lead the Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) program, including designing reviews, testing of key business process controls, automated controls and ITGCs, remediation tracking, and coordination with external auditors and independent consultants.
• Assess the design and operating effectiveness of internal controls; identify control gaps and recommend corrective actions to executive leadership and the Audit Committee.
• Partner with process owners to design, implement, and improve controls.
• Drive continuous improvement and efficiency in the SOX compliance process.
• Oversee all phases of audit engagements - from scoping and testing to reporting and follow-up - ensuring timely completion and high quality.
• Recruit, manage, mentor, and develop audit staff; foster a culture of continuous learning, accountability, and ethical conduct.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with the Audit Committee, CFO, Controller, department heads, and external auditors providing real-time guidance to the company on improving operations.
• Drive adoption of data analytics, automation tools, and best practices to enhance audit efficiency, coverage, and insight, and to improve business and IT processes.

What you'll bring

• Minimum 10 years of experience in internal audit, external audit, or risk management, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Hands-on experience leading SOX compliance efforts in a public company or equivalent environment.
• Deep understanding of U.S. GAAP, PCAOB standards, COSO framework, and relevant regulatory requirements.
• Proven ability to design and implement effective and efficient internal control programs across financial, operational, and IT domains.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; ability to tailor presentations for C-suite, Board/Audit Committee, and operational stakeholders.
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), or Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) required; other credentials (e.g., CFE, PMP) a plus.

Desired Skills & Competencies

• A good communicator and collaborator with the ability to work cross functionally across all departments. A proven executor who is able to illuminate the operational and company benefits of the Internal Audit and Risk management process.
• Strong analytical acumen and critical thinking; able to connect audit findings to broader business impacts and strategic objectives.
• Intellectual curiosity to understand complex business processes, emerging risks, and industry dynamics.
• Proficient in applying project management rigor—defining scope, tracking milestones, and proactively managing risks to deadlines.
• Experience leveraging data analytics, robotic process automation, or AI-enabled auditing tools to optimize coverage and insight.
• Familiarity with ERP, CRM, financial reporting, and security-related systems, including: NetSuite, Salesforce, Zuora RevPro & Zuora Billing, Workday, ZipHQ, FloQast, CashPro (BofA), Fidelity systems, AuditBoard
• Unwavering commitment to ethical behavior, independence, and confidentiality; recognized as a trusted advisor and “change agent” for continuous improvement.
• Executive presence, with the aptitude to build rapport and credibility at all levels—from individual contributors to Board members.