Lead Internal Auditor

Jackson•Lansing, MI

About The Position

The Jackson Financial Inc. Internal Audit team is an independent assurance function that supports the Board, Executive Committee, Audit Committee, and Risk Committee by independently and objectively assessing and reporting on the effectiveness of risk management, control, and governance processes. The team also challenges executive management to improve those processes and supports management's Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404 and Model Audit Rule compliance through risk assessment, scoping, internal control testing, evaluation, and reporting. The Lead Internal Auditor leads audits of key business processes, controls, and systems related to Jackson's products, distribution activities, regulatory compliance, human resources activities, broker-dealer and investment advisory operations, and other areas as needed. The role manages audit execution, provides technical guidance to audit team members, communicates findings and risks, and works with stakeholders to develop practical plans to mitigate identified risks.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree, preferably in Accounting.
At least 4 years of related audit or internal controls experience, internal and/or external.
Strong leadership and decision-making skills.
Excellent project management skills, including the ability to lead critical and complex projects and meet timelines.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
PC skills, including Microsoft Office, and familiarity with or ability to learn audit productivity software and eGRC packages.
Ability to be flexible and think creatively to find innovative solutions to complex problems and issues.
Excellent interpersonal and influencing skills to communicate and build relationships with associates at all levels, including executive management and the Internal Audit team.
Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information appropriately.
Ability to contribute to team effort, share responsibility for team results, and maintain a positive attitude.
Willingness to travel domestically approximately 10–20% of the time.

Nice To Haves

Supervisory or leadership experience.
Internal or external audit experience in the insurance or financial services industry.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), or another recognized audit or accountancy qualification.
Other financial services industry licenses, such as Series 24.

Responsibilities

Manage and execute audit activities to evaluate internal-control design and effectiveness, and recommend changes as needed.
Provide guidance to audit team members on technical concepts.
Execute and review audit work on assigned projects and other areas as needed.
Evaluate controls and document audit work in accordance with standards and methodology.
Consult with stakeholders about audit findings and advise when changes are needed to improve control effectiveness.
Work with the team to ensure audit reports clearly communicate identified business risks and their root causes to business stakeholders.
Work with business stakeholders to develop relevant and practical action plans to mitigate identified risks.
Maintain strong communication and relationships with business stakeholders.
Monitor and review audit execution for alignment with audit methodology and professional standards and frameworks, such as COSO, ISACA, and IIA.
Manage and execute assurance on open audit observations.
Assist with SOX and MAR Program activities as needed.
Support preparation of the annual audit plan.
Participate in steering committees, project boards, and other discussions as needed.
Monitor and track industry developments and trends.
Perform other duties and projects as assigned.