Head of Internal Audit

Coda Search is partnering with a dynamic Real Estate Investment Trust with offices located in Midtown, NY. The team is seeking to hire a Head of Internal Audit who will be responsible for building and leading the internal audit function, providing independent assurance that the company’s risk management, governance, and internal control processes are operating effectively. Reporting directly to the Audit Committee of the Board and CFO, this individual will oversee financial, operational, compliance, and IT audits across the REIT’s portfolio and corporate office.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and execute a comprehensive, risk-based internal audit plan aligned with the company’s strategic and operational objectives.
• Present audit findings, risk assessments, and remediation updates to the Audit Committee and senior executives.
• Evaluate the design and effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting, operational processes, and REIT-specific activities.
• Ensure compliance with SOX requirements and coordinate testing and documentation.
• Partner with the CFO, Controller, Legal, IT, and Operations to design improvements and mitigate risks.
• Assess and enhance the company’s internal control framework as the organization grows.
• Conduct audits of newly acquired entities to ensure alignment with corporate policies and integration plans.
• Work closely with Accounting, FP&A, Legal, HR, IT, and Operations to drive efficiencies and best practices.
• Communicate audit insights to stakeholders in a clear, concise, and business-focused manner.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field; CPA, CIA, or CISA strongly preferred.
• 10 years of progressive internal audit, risk management, or public accounting experience.
• Experience in real estate, REITs, or a publicly traded company highly preferred.
• Strong technical knowledge of internal controls, SOX, financial reporting, and operational auditing.
• Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills, including experience presenting to an Audit Committee.
• Ability to operate independently in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
• Experience leading audits across multiple locations and/or property portfolios a plus.