Internal Controls Manager

Plaid

22h•$147,000 - $210,000

About The Position

The Internal Controls team designs and oversees Plaid’s SOX compliance and internal control framework to ensure accurate financial reporting and operational integrity. We partner cross-functionally to support IPO readiness, build scalable audit foundations, and drive trust in Plaid’s financial systems and processes through strong controls, collaboration, and continuous improvement. As the Internal Controls Manager, you will design, implement, and lead Plaid’s SOX compliance and internal control programs. You will partner with cross-functional teams to build scalable, efficient controls that support IPO readiness and long-term compliance. You will manage external advisors, drive remediation efforts, and serve as a key liaison to auditors and senior leadership. Over time, you’ll build and lead a team, expand audit coverage, and continuously improve our control environment through automation and risk-based processes.

Requirements

8+ years of relevant experience, preferably in both Big 4 and in-house internal audit/SOX leadership roles.
Proven experience designing and leading SOX 404 programs, ideally in a public tech company.
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA, CIA, or CISA required.
Deep understanding of COSO, PCAOB standards, SOX compliance, and US GAAP.
Understanding of other risk domains such as IT General Controls (ITGCs), operational audits, and enterprise risk management (ERM).
Strong project management skills with ability to drive cross-functional accountability and lead strategic initiatives across departments.
Excellent communication skills, with experience preparing materials for Audit Committees and executive leadership.
High attention to detail, strong analytical thinking, and a continuous improvement mindset, with a track record of driving control automation or process optimization with AI: Script writing / workpaper automation
Productivity
Comfortable operating in fast-paced, ambiguous environments with a growth mindset.
Hands-on, roll-up-your-sleeves approach with the ability to dive into details, operate with an IC mindset when needed, and maintain a strong can-do attitude.

Nice To Haves

Experience setting up internal control programs at a pre-IPO fintech or SaaS company.
Familiarity with finance (e.g., NetSuite (ERP), Workiva (reporting), GTM (e.g., Salesforce), and HR systems (e.g., Workday).

Responsibilities

Maintain and optimize Plaid’s SOX internal controls program to support IPO readiness.
Partner with process and control owners to develop, document, and maintain effective, scalable internal controls across key functions.
Manage and grow co-sourced/internal teams to support SOX readiness and long-term internal audit planning.
Coordinate SOX risk assessments, control scoping, testing strategies, and drive timely remediation of deficiencies.
Serve as a key liaison with external auditors, advisors, and senior management, including preparing updates for the Audit Committee.
Continuously improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the controls environment through automation, standardization, and cross-functional collaboration.
Support training and special risk management initiatives as needed, and develop the post-IPO internal audit roadmap spanning operational, compliance, and IT audits.