SOX & Internal Controls Leader | Flexible Schedule

Smith Arnold Partners; Connecticut; On-site; USD 150,000 - 175,000; Full time

Job summary

Smith Arnold Partners seeks a Financial Controls/SOX leader at Associate Director level to drive a robust SOX program in a global industrial organization. You will lead the internal controls function, work with senior management, and oversee high‑profile audit engagements.

Key duties include directing SOX design, risk assessments, documentation, and remediation plans, while mentoring teams and coordinating with auditors and stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's in Accounting, Finance or related field; Master’s Degree and/or CIA/CPA preferred.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in the Big 4 and/or corporate SOX/Internal Controls experience
• Extensive knowledge of US GAAP, Sarbanes-Oxley, risk and controls standards, and business process best practices.
• Proven track record of supporting the build and implementation of SOX compliance programs.
• Strong understanding of internal controls, risk management, and financial reporting.
• Strategic thinker with excellent project management and organizational skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with stakeholders at all levels.
• Self-starter with excellent problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and hands-on oversight in building and implementing the financial Controls / Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) function.
• Reporting to the CAE, this individual will have exposure to the operations of the company and will work with internal and external auditors.
• Following the design and implementation of the program, this individual will support the maintenance of the organization’s SOX compliance effort.
• Develop and establish a robust SOX framework tailored to the organization’s structure and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct comprehensive risk assessments to identify key controls, evaluate control design effectiveness, and assess the overall control environment.
• Drive the implementation of SOX compliance initiatives, ensuring alignment with industry best practices and regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to optimize business processes, integrating effective internal controls seamlessly into daily operations.
• Create and maintain detailed documentation of SOX processes, controls, and testing procedures.
• Build, mentor, and lead team members and high‑profile projects and professionals, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Work closely with process owners to develop and implement effective remediation plans for identified control deficiencies.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders, external auditors, and senior management to communicate the status of SOX compliance efforts.

Skills

Leadership

Executive presence

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Project management

Education

Bachelor's in Accounting/Finance or related field

Master’s degree and/or CIA/CPA preferred

Job description

Smith Arnold Partners seeks a Financial Controls/SOX leader at Associate Director level to drive a robust SOX program in a global industrial organization. You will lead the internal controls function, work with senior management, and oversee high‑profile audit engagements.

Key duties include directing SOX design, risk assessments, documentation, and remediation plans, while mentoring teams and coordinating with auditors and stakeholders.