Internal Audit Senior Manager

About the Role

Stepan Company is searching for a driven and experienced Internal Audit Senior Manager to enhance our Internal Audit division. This key position contributes significantly to strengthening our governance, risk management, and internal control systems. The successful candidate will partner closely with audit leadership to design, carry out, and report on impactful audits covering financial, operational, compliance, and IT domains. This includes managing the Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance program. Strong leadership, project management, communication, and analytical abilities are essential, along with confidence in engaging with executive stakeholders across various departments.

Reporting to the Global Head of Internal Audit, the Senior Manager will be an integral member of the Global Internal Audit team and leadership, influencing audit strategies, risk management, and assurance activities enterprise-wide.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct regular risk assessments and improve business and IT controls in response to process updates, system rollouts, and identified risks.
• Contribute to the company's annual enterprise-wide risk assessment.
• Assist in creating a risk-based Internal Audit plan addressing strategic priorities and emerging risks.
• Lead execution of audit plans examining financial, strategic, regulatory, market, and operational risks.
• Provide input on audit organizational design, core capabilities, capacity planning, and co-sourcing strategies.
• Enhance Global Audit policies and procedures, ensuring alignment with professional auditing standards.
• Deliver clear status updates, coordinate audit walkthroughs, and manage responses to inquiries efficiently.
• Oversee remediation validation and ensure timely closure of audit action items.
• Develop and lead global audit strategic projects consistent with company policies.
• Manage the Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX)/COSO compliance program on a daily basis.
• Evaluate and test internal controls including business process, automated, and IT general controls.
• Review audit staff documentation for thoroughness and quality.
• Collaborate with external auditors and consultants to ensure timely information exchange and issue resolution.
• Lead cross-functional operational audits from planning to reporting including scope and recommendations.
• Apply strong project management to ensure audits are delivered timely and meet standards.
• Prepare high-quality reports that clearly articulate findings, root causes, and risks.
• Present audit findings and suggestions effectively to management and executive leadership.
• Assist in preparing quarterly materials for the Audit Committee.
• Mentor and develop audit staff, promoting a supportive and growth-oriented team environment.

Qualifications

• A minimum of 7 years progressive experience in financial controls, auditing, or risk management, preferably in public accounting or complex corporate settings.
• At least 2 years of experience managing people.
• Deep knowledge of professional audit standards, COSO framework, and risk assessment methodologies.
• Strong grasp of internal controls, testing procedures, and regulatory reporting requirements.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and modern audit technologies.
• Demonstrated project management skills, leadership ability, and an aptitude for influencing within a matrix organization.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Willingness to travel 10-20%, including international trips.

Education and Certification

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Accounting or related field from an accredited institution.
• Professional certification preferred or in progress such as CPA, CIA, or CISA.

Remuneration and Benefits

The salary range for this position is $123,000 to $180,000 annually and is determined by skills, experience, and location.

• Discretionary bonus opportunities
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) plan with company match and profit sharing
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Short- and long-term disability coverage
• Dependent care flexible spending account
• Health savings account options
• Paid parental leave and adoption assistance
• Employee recognition programs and assistance services

Additional Information

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship. Stepan Company values stability, growth, diversity, and sustainability, maintaining over 2,400 employees worldwide. We are committed to equal opportunity employment and fostering an inclusive workplace.