Director of Internal Audit

We are seeking a strategic and experienced Director of Internal Audit to lead our client's company-wide internal audit function, with a strong focus on Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance, enterprise risk management, and internal controls. This individual will serve as a key advisor to executive leadership and the Audit Committee, bringing deep expertise in SOX compliance, risk assessment, and internal audit best practices. The ideal candidate will have Big Four public accounting experience, be a CPA, and possess proven leadership in driving effective audit strategies across complex business environments.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the organization’s SOX 404 compliance program, including scoping, documentation, testing, and remediation of internal controls over financial reporting.
• Serve as a key liaison with external auditors, ensuring effective coordination and alignment of SOX and audit efforts.
• Provide regular reports to executive management and the Audit Committee regarding audit findings, risk exposure, and compliance trends, including Audit Committee meeting materials.
• Develop and enhance the internal audit methodology in accordance with the COSO framework and GAAP standards.
• Identify and communicate key business risks and control gaps, and influence business leaders to strengthen internal controls and risk management practices.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the company’s financial accounting and reporting process owners with respect to SOX compliance, fostering a culture of accountability, integrity, and continuous improvement.
• Monitor changes in the regulatory environment and proactively adjust audit strategy to maintain compliance and mitigate emerging risks.
• Support strategic initiatives, including systems implementations, mergers/acquisitions, and process transformations, with appropriate control oversight.
• Drive the use of technology and data analytics to enhance audit efficiency and insight.
• Travel as needed to business unit sites in the U.S. and Canada to effectively engage with finance and accounting teams and business leaders.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (Master’s or MBA preferred).
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) required; additional certifications such as CIA, CISA, or CFE preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in internal audit, public accounting, or financial controls, with at least 3–5 years in a leadership role.
• Prior experience with a Big Four accounting firm strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated expertise in SOX 404, enterprise risk management, and internal controls evaluation.
• Deep knowledge of U.S. GAAP, SEC reporting requirements, and regulatory compliance standards.
• Experience in a public company or highly regulated industry (e.g., defense, financial services, healthcare, or technology).

Required Skills

• Strong project management and change leadership abilities.
• Proven ability to influence and engage at all levels of the organization, including C-suite and board.
• Exceptional strategic thinking, communication, and presentation skills.
• Track record of building and transforming audit functions to meet evolving business and regulatory needs.
• Strong ethical foundation and unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability.
• Ability to work autonomously.
• Work on-site at company headquarters in Melville, New York, 3 days per week.