Internal Audit Lead - Finance & Operations

Lambda•San Jose, CA

1d•$236,000 - $315,000•Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Internal Audit Lead – Finance & Operations to join our Internal Audit function. This individual will be responsible for leading the SOX testing program for finance and operations related controls, strengthening the company’s internal control over financial reporting (ICFR). This is a Senior level role that combines hands-on testing and evaluation with leadership, oversight, and stakeholder engagement.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
CPA, CIA, or CISA certification strongly preferred.
10+ years of progressive experience in internal audit, external audit, or SOX program management, with at least 2+ years in a managerial / supervisory role.
Big Four accounting firm or equivalent experience in Internal or External Audit practice.
Deep expertise in SOX, ICFR, and various risk-based audit approaches, Internal audit methodology and IIA standards.
Strong knowledge of COSO, PCAOB standards, U.S. GAAP, and regulatory requirements.
Experience in preparing executive presentations for senior level stakeholders.
Proficiency in audit management tools (e.g. AuditBoard, Workiva) and other project management tools (e.g. JIRA)
Proficiency with ERP systems as well as financial close tools and their impact on internal controls and SOX compliance.
Proven leadership skills, with the ability to inspire and manage teams, including co-sourced providers.
Exceptional communication and executive presence to influence senior stakeholders.
Strong strategic thinking, with the ability to balance risk management, compliance, and operational efficiency.
Highly organized, with the ability to manage complex projects and competing priorities.

Nice To Haves

Experience with data analytics and automated testing tools to enhance SOX testing efficiency and insights.
Exposure to emerging technologies such as cloud computing, cybersecurity, and RPA, and their control implications.
Prior experience working in a fast-growth or global organization, adapting SOX programs to evolving structures and complexity.
History of partnering with external auditors on reliance strategies to optimize testing and reduce duplication.
Involvement in internal audit transformation initiatives, such as methodology modernization.
Active participation in professional organizations (e.g., IIA, ISACA) and staying current on regulatory and industry trends.

Responsibilities

Lead the planning and execution of the annual testing program for finance and accounting processes (e.g., revenue recognition, procure-to-pay, record-to-report, treasury, payroll, etc.).
Lead and perform process walkthroughs, design assessments, and testing of key controls over financial reporting.
Review the work of co-sourced and internal testers, ensuring quality, accuracy, and consistency of testing results.
Partner with finance process owners to validate control design and address evolving risks and business changes.
Coordinate with cross-functional teams including finance and accounting to assess design and recommend design improvements or enhance systems and processes to achieve compliance and improve overall control effectiveness. Drive projects focused on addressing control gaps and proactively preparing for future control requirements.
Monitor changes to business processes and apply independent judgement to evaluate the potential impact to the control environment and recommend necessary improvements. Present the impact of the changes to the Head of Internal audit and other stakeholders prior to implementation.
Manage and update all ICFR / SOX 404 documentation as required including COSO framework mapping, process and control narratives/flowcharts, risk and controls matrix, and testing approach.
Apply professional skepticism and subject matter expertise to independently evaluate and conclude on control deficiencies and develop the necessary remediation actions and monitor their implementation in due time
Identify, assess, and document control deficiencies, including evaluation of severity and impact.
Work with finance and cross functional managers and process owners to develop, track, and validate timely remediation plans.
Recommend process improvements and efficiency opportunities while maintaining control effectiveness.
Serve as the primary point of contact for ICFR and SOX testing for finance and process controls.
Provide training, guidance and day to day advisory support to finance process owners on SOX compliance expectations and best practices.
Prepare concise, high-quality reports on testing results, deficiencies, and remediation progress for review with the Head of Internal Audit.
Contribute to updates and presentations to senior management and the Audit Committee on SOX program status.