Sr Manager, Internal Audit

McDonald's Corporation•Chicago, IL

About The Position

The Senior Manager, Internal Audit is a key leader within the Global Internal Audit (GIA) function, responsible for leading risk‑based operational audits across the U.S. Market and Corporate functions. Reporting to the Senior Director, this role partners closely with business and functional leadership to deliver high‑quality, forward‑looking assurance and insights that enhance risk management, governance, and operational effectiveness. The Senior Manager plays an important role in continuing to modernize and elevate GIA by driving strong audit execution, professional judgment, and practical, value‑adding recommendations.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field required.
CPA or CIA required.
8+ years of progressive internal audit, external audit, and/or risk assurance experience.
Demonstrated experience leading complex operational audits within large, global organizations
Proven ability to partner effectively with senior leaders and influence outcomes without direct authority
Experience leading and developing audit professionals
Strong understanding of the IIA Standards.
Strong foundation in operational auditing, internal controls, risk assessment, and IIA Standards
Proficiency with audit management systems and data analytics tools
Ability to lead through influence, guide teams, and manage divergent stakeholder interests
Strong written and verbal communication; able to convey complex issues to executives
High learning agility and intellectual curiosity with a continuous improvement mindset
Ability to identify complex, multi‑dimensional risk/control issues and create innovative solutions
Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities and lead teams through ambiguity and change

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead the successful execution of a portfolio of operational and compliance‑focused internal audits, ensuring engagements are delivered on time, on budget, and in accordance with GIA methodology and IIA Standards.
Provide hands‑on leadership throughout the audit lifecycle, including planning, risk assessment, fieldwork, issue evaluation, and reporting.
Ensure audit conclusions are supported by sound judgment, high‑quality documentation, and clear linkage to underlying risks.
Maintain a strong focus on root cause identification, issue severity, and the sustainability of management action plans.
Support annual and ongoing risk assessment activities and contribute to the development and refinement of the audit plan.
Identify emerging operational, compliance, and strategic risks impacting the U.S. Market and Corporate functions.
Proactively adjust audit scope and focus based on changes in the risk environment, business priorities, and transformation initiatives.
Build trusted relationships with senior leaders and functional stakeholders through effective communication, constructive challenge, and practical insights.
Lead sensitive risk discussions and deliver clear, concise audit results tailored to executive audiences.
Act as a thought partner to the business by sharing trends, best practices, and forward‑looking perspectives on risk and control effectiveness.
Ensure audit work complies with GIA standards, methodology, and reporting expectations.
Mentor teams on audit quality, professional judgment, and effective risk articulation.
Identify opportunities to strengthen audit execution through improved planning, use of data and analytics, and standardized ways of working.
Contribute to internal initiatives that enhance audit processes, tools, and overall function maturity.
Lead, coach, and develop audit team members, providing timely feedback, mentorship, and performance management aligned to GIA expectations.
Build and sustain a high‑performing, inclusive team culture grounded in integrity, accountability, and continuous learning.
Support succession planning and develop future audit leaders through meaningful stretch opportunities.