Director of Internal Audit & Controls

Our client, a rapidly growing fintech company focused on real-world asset (RWA) tokenization is seeking a Head of Internal Audit & Controls to build and lead its internal audit and internal controls function from the ground up. This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned audit professional to architect the foundational elements of the company's governance framework, operate independently at first, and later build out a team as the organization grows.


You will be instrumental in designing, implementing, and executing an effective internal control environment, evaluating risk management practices, and providing independent, objective assurance to executive leadership and the board. This role requires both strategic thinking and hands-on execution.


Key Responsibilities:

Internal Controls Development
• Design and implement a scalable internal control framework aligned with COSO principles.
• Map business processes and identify control gaps and remediation plans.
• Establish control testing procedures and self-assessment programs.
• Collaborate cross-functionally (Finance, IT, HR, Legal, etc.) to embed controls into core processes.


Internal Audit Function
• Define the internal audit charter, methodology, and annual audit plan.
• Conduct operational, financial, and compliance audits across the organization.
• Present findings, recommendations, and improvement plans to the CFO and audit committee.
• Establish tools, templates, and reporting practices to support audit activity.


PMO & SOC Audit Support
• Act as the internal project lead for all third-party audits (e.g., SOC 1, SOC 2).
• Coordinate with internal stakeholders and external auditors to ensure timely and accurate delivery of requested documentation.
• Manage the PMO function for audit-related activities, including timelines, ownership tracking, and remediation follow-ups.
• Collaborate closely with IT, Security, Compliance, and Engineering teams to ensure controls relevant to audit scopes are well understood, tested, and maintained.
• Drive readiness assessments and gap analyses in preparation for external audits.


Strategic & Team Leadership
• Serve as the key advisor on audit and internal control matters to senior management.
• Prepare materials and reports for executive leadership and the board.
• Over time, hire and mentor a high-performing internal audit team.
• Stay informed on emerging risks, compliance trends, and best practices in fintech and digital assets.


Qualifications:

• 7+ years of relevant experience in internal audit, SOX, or internal controls, preferably in fintech, financial services, or fast-scaling tech startups.
• Strong knowledge of risk management frameworks, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance.
• Experience building or significantly shaping internal audit or controls functions.
• High level of independence, integrity, and sound judgment.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills; comfortable interacting with executives and board members.




Compensation: $160-180K+ base plus discretionary bonus and stock options