Senior Internal Audit Lead — Remote & Strategy

Principal Financial Group; Des Moines (IA); Hybrid; USD 127,000 - 171,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work option

Remote work option

Job summary

Principal Financial Group is seeking an Assistant Director for Internal Audit to lead development and execution of the enterprise audit plan using a risk-based approach. You will oversee risk assessment, controls testing, and resource planning across Principal’s global operations, while guiding a team and communicating findings to executive management.

The role requires a strong background in internal auditing, leadership, and deep knowledge of control frameworks, with travel as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with 10+ years of progressive Internal Audit experience
• 3+ years of people management experience (informal or formal)
• CPA or CIA or equivalent certification preferred

Responsibilities

• Lead development and execution of Principal’s enterprise audit plan using a risk-based approach
• Evaluate key risks and controls, delegate work, and oversee team performance
• Apply COSO, NIST, and other frameworks to assess control effectiveness and promote audit scope alignment
• Leverage data analytics to drive insights in audit subjects
• Lead complex, high-priority projects and coordinate multiple audits and resources
• Present audit results and recommendations to executive management and stakeholders
• Develop and maintain relationships with business units and external stakeholders
• Recruit, mentor, and develop audit staff to improve department impact

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Audit risk & controls

Team management

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor’s degree

3+ years people management

CPA/CIA preferred

Job description

Principal Financial Group is seeking an Assistant Director for Internal Audit to lead development and execution of the enterprise audit plan using a risk-based approach. You will oversee risk assessment, controls testing, and resource planning across Principal’s global operations, while guiding a team and communicating findings to executive management.

The role requires a strong background in internal auditing, leadership, and deep knowledge of control frameworks, with travel as needed.