Internal Audit Director (Americas)
- Full-time
Company Description
We are SGS – the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,500 employees operate a network of 2,500 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world.
Job Description
The Director of Internal Audit supports the Chief Audit Executive (CAE) in leading the Global Internal Audit Function. This role includes managing the planning, execution, supervision, and reporting of global audit assignments. The Director will ensure compliance with the Global Internal Audit Standards and contribute to continuous improvements in audit quality, methodology, and team development. The Director is also considered the Deputy Head of Group Internal Audit and may represent the CAE as required.
The role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including but not limited to the following:
- Assist the CAE in developing and maintaining a comprehensive program of risk-based audit coverage across the Group's global operations.
- Plan and oversee the timely and effective execution of multiple audit engagements, ensuring compliance with the Group Audit Manual and The IIA Standards.
- Review and enhance audit documentation and reports for accuracy, clarity, and strategic insight, ensuring risks and key issues are well communicated.
- Provide day-to-day leadership to regional audit teams, including planning, fieldwork guidance, issue resolution, and performance feedback.
- Personally lead complex audits or special projects, including investigations, acquisition integration reviews, or confidential assignments, when needed.
- Monitor and support the implementation of audit recommendations, including follow-up and escalation of overdue actions.
- Engage in recruitment, onboarding, and capability development of new audit staff. Develop and maintain training materials and deliver induction and on-the-job coaching.
- Promote a culture of integrity, objectivity, and continuous improvement, ensuring the audit team maintains high performance and ethical standards.
- Proactively propose and lead initiatives to improve audit tools, methodologies, and the integration of data analytics into the audit approach.
- Represent Internal Audit in interactions with senior management and affiliate leadership, offering consultative insights into risk and control matters.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, regulatory expectations, and internal auditing best practices to continuously enhance audit value.
- Contribute to internal knowledge bases and risk/control guidance for process owners across the organization.
Qualifications
- Minimum 10 years’ relevant experience, including at least 5 years in a corporate internal audit role and 3 years in a supervisory or managerial capacity.
- Experience in leading remote, multicultural teams and managing concurrent projects across different time zones.
- Chartered Accountant, CPA, CIA, or equivalent professional qualification required.
- Demonstrated ability to evaluate business practices constructively and provide strategic control recommendations.
- Knowledge of enterprise-wide risk management and governance frameworks.
- High level of integrity and ability to handle confidential and sensitive information.
Required Skills:
- Excellent leadership, coaching, and communication skills.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and project management capabilities.
- Ability to synthesize complex information and present actionable insights.
- Capable of working independently in challenging environments.
- Fluent in English; proficiency in other languages is advantageous.
Additional Information
Why SGS?
- Opportunity to work with a global leader in inspection, verification, testing, and certification.
- Collaborative and inclusive work environment.
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Opportunities for professional growth and development.
Join Us: At SGS, we are dedicated to fostering an open, friendly, and supportive culture that thrives on teamwork. We value diversity and provide endless opportunities to learn, grow your expertise, and fulfil your potential.