Executive Director, Audit

Merck • Rahway, NJ

10d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Executive Director, Corporate Audit and Assurance Services will lead and deliver risk-based, value-added internal audit and assurance services. This senior finance and audit leader will partner with business leaders and senior management to assess risks, design and execute complex audits, with a focus on internal controls and compliance. The role combines hands-on audit leadership with people development, project management, and strategic influence.

Requirements

• Broad experience across risk management, finance, IT and/or internal audit with demonstrated interaction with senior leadership.
• Proven track record leading and executing complex, high-risk audit engagements.
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills; ability to present complex issues clearly to executive audiences.
• Demonstrated leadership, high ethical standards, sound judgment, and integrity when representing the Company internally and externally.
• Results-driven, with the ability to focus teams on critical metrics that drive organizational performance.
• Innovative mindset with a history of implementing process improvements, new ways of working and use of technology.
• Willingness to travel up to 15% domestically and internationally.
• Will be required to work on-site in Rahway 3 days per week.

Nice To Haves

• Experience leading, developing, and coaching high-performing audit teams.
• Professional audit and/or control certifications such as CPA, CISA, CIA, CMA, or CFE.
• Experience with Sarbanes-Oxley compliance and broader business compliance programs.
• Big Four public accounting experience.

Responsibilities

• Partner with the Vice President and audit peers to design and implement an annual risk-based audit plan aligned with enterprise strategy.
• Prepare and present clear, concise audit reports that summarize findings, implications, and recommended actions.
• Lead and direct multiple concurrent high-risk and complex audits from scoping through reporting and follow-up; ensure timely completion and appropriate escalation.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to business leaders: communicate findings diplomatically and foster collaborative relationships.
• Monitor and evaluate application of body of knowledge (audit standards, control frameworks, regulatory requirements) across complex business scenarios; identify and report non-conformances.
• Recruit, develop, coach, and retain top talent; create a high-performing team through effective selection, deployment, and career advancement in roles throughout the organization.
• Promote a culture of ethics, accountability, and continuous improvement across the organization.
• Oversee internal training and professional development programs for audit staff; ensure team maintains relevant certifications and technical skills.
• Support other administrative and operational activities to enable the effective functioning of the Corporate Audit and Assurance Services group.
• Travel domestically and internationally to assigned regions/entities as needed (estimated up to 15%).

Benefits

• The successful candidate will be eligible for annual bonus and long-term incentive, if applicable.
• We offer a comprehensive package of benefits. Available benefits include medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family), retirement benefits, including 401(k), paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days. More information about benefits is available at https://jobs.merck.com/us/en/compensation-and-benefits.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees