Head of Internal Audit UK & Europe

Responsible for supervising and performing assigned internal audit projects, as part of the overall internal audit plan approved annually by the Audit Committee. This responsibility will include: 1) evaluating existing internal control documentation, testing current processes and procedures, and providing recommendations for improvement; 2) developing internal audit scopes; 3) performing internal audit procedures; 4) supervising work performed by others (as applicable); 5) reviewing work prepared by others (as applicable); 6) coaching and mentoring leadership as needed to ensure effective control design and operation as well as risk mitigation; and 4) preparing Internal Audit reports reflecting the results of the work performed. Audit focus includes financial, operational, compliance (including SOX) and IT processes. This position is expected to become very familiar with company/industry risks, controls, policies/procedures, and processes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience
• Major in Accounting or related business discipline preferred
• 5+ years of prior public accounting and/or internal audit experience required
• Insurance experience preferred
• Experience related to auditing information systems is required
• At least 2 years of supervisory or leadership role is required
• CIA or CISA certification or current progress towards certification highly preferred

Primary Job Functions

• Work closely with VP, Head of Internal Audit and Assurance on continuous audit planning and program development
• Perform complex-level professional internal audit work, involving leading and conducting audit projects
• Partner with individuals in various financial, operational, and IT positions to understand control processes and related duties. Provide guidance to management in the design and documentation of SOX controls to ensure appropriate risk mitigation and proper framework
• Perform and document comprehensive walkthroughs of SOX controls
• Perform and document SOX controls testing
• Test compliance with Company policies and procedures
• Recommend process and policy improvements
• Develop and maintain tracking of testing progress and related results
• Follow up to ensure that approved recommendations are implemented, and audit findings are remediated timely
• Complete assigned audit procedures to ensure timely completion of work
• Summarize and communicate audit findings timely
• Prepare sufficient work paper documentation to support audit procedures performed and conclusions reached for assigned projects
• Perform detailed review over work completed by others (as applicable) and provide coaching as needed
• Serve as lead contact for external audit inquiries and ensure timely and accurate response
• Communicate effectively with leadership regarding testing status, issues, risks, and improvement opportunities
• Provide oversight with respect to outsourced audit resources (as applicable)
• Serve as lead contact for SOX and related project areas for UK and EU entities
• Collaborate effectively with leadership to apply best practices in accordance with Global Internal Audit Standards
• Provide direct assistance to the external auditors as needed to provide efficiency and reduce audit fees
• Provide key input into the development of the annual internal audit plan and annual assessments/updates
• Provide oversight and key support to the annual risk assessment (both fraud and ERM)
• Willingness to travel on an as needed basis, 20 - 30% expected
• Assist in testing Board of Directors policies for EU entities
• Prepare various reports and documents for the Audit Committee's quarterly meetings
• Other duties as assigned

The above cited duties and responsibilities describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to the job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that an incumbent may be expected or asked to perform.

• Continuous focus on refining leadership and technical skill sets
• Proven track record of reliability and dependability
• Execution leadership. Proven track record of leading a team to improved performance for customers and Fortegra
• Considerable knowledge of internal control concepts, internal auditing standards, COSO, COBIT and risk assessment practices required
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills at all levels of the organization
• Ability to lead and direct the work of others and provide constructive feedback for learning and growth
• Ability to collaborate objectively in partnership with leadership and external parties to develop process improvements
• Ability to develop positive professional relationships at all entities and at all levels
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications
• Ability to work independently with limited required direction and guidance, with competency to take initiative and utilize independent judgment
• Ability to work on and manage simultaneous projects and responsibilities in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to respond to internal requests for support and assistance in a prompt and professional manner
• Team oriented individual
• Ability to work in a confidential manner due to access to information of a sensitive nature
• Maintain personal and professional competency through appropriate participation in professional organizations and continuing education opportunities.
• Excellent time management, problem-solving and analytical skills

Additional Information

Full benefit package including medical, dental, life, vision, company paid short/long term disability, 401(k), tuition assistance and more