Director - Internal Audit

AWG Enterprises•Kansas City, KS

19d

About The Position

The Director of Internal Audit will lead AWG’s internal audit function, ensuring effective governance, risk management, and compliance across our cooperative. This role will partner closely with executive leadership and business unit leaders to assess risks, strengthen controls, and provide actionable insights that support AWG’s long-term financial health and operational success. Associated Wholesale Grocers, Inc. (AWG) is the nation’s largest cooperative food wholesaler to independently owned supermarkets, serving 1,100 member companies and more than 3,400 locations throughout 33 states from 9 wholesale divisions. Consolidated sales for AWG in 2024 exceeded $12.0 billion. In addition to its cooperative wholesale operations, the company also operates subsidiary companies that provide certain real estate and supermarket development services, and pharmaceutical products. For more information, visit AWGinc.com .

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field (Master’s preferred).
CPA, CIA, CISA, or other relevant certifications preferred.
5+ years of progressive internal audit, public accounting, or risk management experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
Strong knowledge of GAAP, auditing standards, risk frameworks, and compliance requirements.
Experience working in distribution, supply chain, retail, or cooperative industries strongly preferred.
Excellent communication skills with ability to present complex information clearly to executives and the Audit Committee.
Proven ability to influence and partner across functions in a large, complex organization.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute a comprehensive risk-based internal audit plan covering financial, operational, IT, and compliance areas.
Provide independent assurance to senior leadership on the effectiveness of internal controls and risk management practices.
Lead operational and compliance audits, ensuring findings are documented, communicated, and remediated.
Partner with business leaders to identify process improvements and strengthen internal controls without disrupting operations.
Oversee internal investigations related to fraud policy violations.
Assist external auditors with year-end audit activities.
Stay current on industry trends, regulations, and emerging risks relevant to wholesale, supply chain, and retail operations.
Build, lead, and develop the internal audit team to deliver high-quality and value-added services.