Internal Audit Manager at ESCO Technologies in Creve Coeur, MO

Under the direction of the Internal Audit Director, the Internal Audit Manager is responsible for supporting ESCO's Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance program, including the assessment, testing, monitoring, and continuous improvement of internal controls over financial reporting. The role also leads internal control gap assessments for newly acquired businesses and supports the integration of acquired entities into ESCO's control framework.

This position primarily focuses on financial and IT SOX compliance activities across ESCO's global operations, coordinates with external auditors, partners with Finance and IT leadership on remediation efforts, and serves as a trusted advisor on internal control matters. The Internal Audit Manager collaborates with other Internal Audit management team members to execute departmental objectives while independently managing multiple projects and priorities.

Essential Job Duties

• Lead and execute financial and IT SOX testing across ESCO's global operations.
• Plan and coordinate annual SOX compliance activities, including walkthroughs, testing, deficiency evaluations, and reporting.
• Evaluate the design and operating effectiveness of financial and IT controls and identify opportunities to strengthen the control environment.
• Partner with control owners to develop practical remediation plans and monitor corrective actions through completion.
• Review audit workpapers and provide coaching, feedback, and development support to audit staff.
• Lead internal control and control gap assessments for newly acquired businesses, including evaluation of financial reporting processes, key controls, and IT control environments.
• Support the integration of acquired businesses into ESCO's SOX compliance program and internal control framework.
• Coordinate with external auditors to maximize reliance on Internal Audit's testing and improve overall audit efficiency.
• Maintain and evaluate compliance with Corporate Financial Policies and Procedures.
• Utilize data analytics, AuditBoard, and other audit technologies, as applicable, to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of SOX testing and reporting.
• Maintain expertise in U.S. GAAP, SOX requirements, internal control frameworks, and emerging financial reporting risks.
• Support special projects and advisory initiatives as assigned by the Internal Audit Director.
• Travel approximately 25% to 35%, including international travel to support SOX activities, acquisition assessments, and subsidiary visits.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in public accounting, internal audit, or a combination thereof.
• Experience testing internal controls over financial reporting in a publicly traded company environment required.
• CPA, CIA, CISA, or other relevant professional certification preferred.
• Prior experience leading audit engagements and mentoring staff preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of SOX 404 requirements and internal control frameworks.
• Experience testing IT General Controls (ITGCs), automated controls, interfaces, and IT-dependent controls.
• Experience with Information Produced by the Entity (IPE) testing and documentation requirements.
• Experience performing internal control assessments and control gap evaluations for acquired businesses.
• Strong understanding of U.S. GAAP and financial reporting processes.
• Experience with revenue recognition under ASC 606, including overtime revenue accounting methodologies, preferred.
• Experience with AuditBoard or similar audit, SOX, and risk management software preferred.
• Strong project management, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to build and maintain effective partnerships with Finance, IT, Operations, and business leadership.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively across all levels of the organization.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and related business applications.
• Manufacturing industry experience preferred.
• Government contracting experience preferred.

Compensation Information

Base Salary Range: $110,000 - $125,000 USD (Annually)