Internal Audit Manager

Internal Audit Manager - SOX Compliance

Location: London, UK (Hybrid - 3 days in office, 2 days remote)Salary: £80,000-£90,000 base + up to 20% bonusBenefits: 25 days annual leave, public holidays, up to 10% matched pension contributions, private medical and life assurance cover, group income protection

About the Role

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Internal Audit Manager (IAM) to lead and enhance our Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance program. Reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), you will be instrumental in designing, implementing, and monitoring an effective internal control framework, with a primary focus on financial reporting and business processes. This role offers significant exposure to the Audit Committee and the opportunity to drive continuous improvement across the organization.

Key Responsibilities

SOX and Internal Controls

• Develop, document, and maintain the internal controls framework, including controls manuals and audit plans.
• Conduct SOX control testing in accordance with established timelines.
• Identify and validate IT dependencies supporting SOX key controls, ensuring accuracy and completeness of information used in control activities.
• Implement and monitor IT controls such as access controls, change management, and data backup/recovery.
• Collaborate with the Information Security Lead to establish and maintain SOX-compliant IT general controls.
• Perform risk assessments across all operating cycles to identify potential process weaknesses and implement controls to mitigate risks.
• Report internal control deficiencies to the CFO and Audit Committee, providing recommendations for improvement.
• Support the business in planning and implementing SOX-compliant financial controls for new services or acquisitions.
• Monitor and evaluate compliance with existing policies and procedures, proposing modifications as needed.
• Track and report SOX assessment status to senior management and the Audit Committee.

Support, Liaison, and Collaboration

• Coordinate SOX process and control walkthroughs with external auditors, ensuring timely completion.
• Manage relationships with control and process owners, managers, and external auditors.
• Serve as the primary liaison with internal audit advisors and external auditors, facilitating effective communication and coordination.
• Collaborate with key control owners to review identified control deficiencies and ensure remediation actions are implemented.
• Provide guidance, training, and support to staff to ensure effective control design and testing.
• Engage in continuous education of staff regarding SOX obligations and best practices.

Consistency, Quality, and Improvement

• Drive consistency, quality, and continuous improvement of business processes and controls.
• Ensure appropriate controls are embedded within company policies, updating existing policies and drafting new ones as necessary.
• Stay informed about PCAOB publications and guidance related to SOX, advising management on relevant matters.

Other Work and Projects

• Support ad hoc risk and internal audit assignments.
• Assist in planning and delivering process improvements beyond SOX compliance.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Timely completion of all internal audit and SOX deliverables.
• Minimization of Significant Deficiencies and IT Control Deficiencies.
• Avoidance of material weaknesses.
• Effective training and support for staff involved in the SOX program.
• Proactive and professional relationship with external auditors.
• Effective management of external SOX or internal audit support.
• High stakeholder satisfaction, including Audit Committee and senior management.
• Continuous professional development and maintenance of certifications.

Requirements

• Qualified Accountant or Internal Auditor (ACA, CA, ACCA, IIA, CIA).
• Minimum 5 years post-qualification experience, with a strong focus on SOX compliance and controls testing.
• In-depth knowledge of US GAAP, SOX requirements, the COSO framework, IIA and PCAOB auditing standards.
• Experience with risk management and internal control frameworks.
• Familiarity with risk management/IA tools such as OpenPages.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey complex issues clearly.
• Experience coordinating with multiple stakeholders across geographies.
• Willingness to travel internationally (typically not on short notice).
• Availability to work in the London office at least 3 days per week.
• Knowledge of legal and compliance areas such as KYC, sanctions, and anti-bribery and corruption.
• Experience in the maritime, shipping, or energy sectors is advantageous.
• Chartered Internal Auditor (CMIIA) or Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) is a plus.

How to Apply

If you are a proactive, detail-oriented professional with a passion for internal controls and SOX compliance, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and qualifications.