JRG Partners is proud to partner with a trailblazing FinTech platform located in the vibrant tech hub of Salt Lake City, Utah. Our client is revolutionizing the financial services industry through innovative technology, data-driven insights, and a customer-centric approach. As they continue their trajectory of rapid growth and market disruption, they are seeking a strategic, experienced, and forward-thinking leader to establish and direct their internal audit function as the Head of Internal Audit.
This is a pivotal role that will be instrumental in building a robust control environment, ensuring regulatory compliance, and safeguarding the company’s assets as it scales. You will have the unique opportunity to build a best-in-class internal audit department from the ground up, reporting directly to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors and working closely with the executive leadership team.
Role Overview for Head of Internal Audit with a FinTech Platform – Salt Lake City, UT
The Head of Internal Audit will be a cornerstone of our client’s governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) framework. This executive will be responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive, risk-based internal audit plan that aligns with the company’s strategic objectives. The ideal candidate is a seasoned audit professional with deep experience in the financial services or FinTech sectors, possessing a strong understanding of regulatory requirements, risk management principles, and modern auditing techniques.
You will be a hands-on leader, equally comfortable setting high-level strategy and diving into the details of complex audit engagements. This role requires a proactive and collaborative leader who can build strong relationships across the organization, provide objective assurance to the board and management, and offer valuable insights that drive process improvements and mitigate risk. You will be the primary architect of an audit function that is not only a compliance necessity but also a strategic partner to the business, helping to foster a culture of integrity, accountability, and continuous improvement in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities of Head of Internal Audit with a FinTech Platform – Salt Lake City, UT
The Head of Internal Audit will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, including but not limited to:
Strategic Audit Planning and Development
Design, develop, and implement a comprehensive, risk-based annual internal audit plan. This includes performing a thorough enterprise-wide risk assessment to identify key areas of financial, operational, technological, and compliance risk. The plan must be dynamic and adaptable to the evolving FinTech landscape.
Audit Execution and Oversight
Lead and manage all phases of internal audit projects, including planning, fieldwork, and reporting. This involves overseeing financial, operational, compliance, and IT audits to evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls. Ensure all audit activities comply with the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing (IIA Standards).
Reporting and Communication
Prepare clear, concise, and impactful audit reports for the Audit Committee and senior management. Present findings, recommendations, and management action plans to key stakeholders, ensuring that identified issues are effectively communicated and understood. Facilitate open communication to build consensus and drive timely remediation.
SOX Compliance Leadership
Lead the company’s Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance program. This includes scoping, risk assessment, documentation of controls, testing, and coordination with external auditors. You will be the subject matter expert for SOX within the organization.
Regulatory and Compliance Assurance
Stay abreast of evolving regulations impacting the FinTech and financial services industry (e.g., FFIEC, BSA/AML, GLBA). Develop and execute audit programs to ensure the company’s compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies.
Team Leadership and Development
Recruit, train, mentor, and lead a high-performing internal audit team. Foster a collaborative and professional team environment that promotes professional growth, knowledge sharing, and a commitment to quality. Manage co-sourcing relationships with third-party audit firms as needed.
Stakeholder Relationship Management
Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with business leaders, the executive team, the Audit Committee, external auditors, and regulatory bodies. Act as a trusted advisor, providing objective insights and value-added recommendations without compromising independence.
Fraud and Investigations
Develop and oversee a program to deter, detect, and investigate potential instances of fraud. Lead or support special investigations as requested by the Audit Committee or senior management.
Continuous Improvement
Champion the continuous improvement of internal controls, business processes, and risk management practices across the organization. Utilize data analytics and other emerging technologies to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the audit process.
Requirements for the Head of Internal Audit with a FinTech Platform – Salt Lake City, UT
We are seeking a candidate with a proven track record of excellence and leadership in the audit profession. The qualifications and attributes for this role include:
Education and Certification
A Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is a plus. Must hold a relevant professional certification, such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA). Additional certifications like Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) or Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) are highly desirable.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 12-15 years of progressive experience in internal audit, external audit, or risk management. A significant portion of this experience must be within the banking, financial services, or FinTech industries. A ‘Big 4’ public accounting background is strongly preferred.
Leadership Experience
At least 5 years of experience in a leadership role, with demonstrated success in building, managing, and developing a team of audit professionals. Experience reporting directly to an Audit Committee is essential.
Technical Expertise
Deep technical knowledge of U.S. GAAP, COSO internal control framework, and IIA standards. Extensive experience with SOX 404 requirements, including implementation and ongoing compliance. Strong understanding of IT general controls (ITGCs) and technology-driven business processes.
Regulatory Knowledge
In-depth knowledge of the regulatory environment for financial institutions, including familiarity with regulations from the FDIC, OCC, Federal Reserve, and CFPB.
Analytical and Strategic Skills
Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. Ability to see the big picture and connect audit findings to broader business risks and strategic objectives.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills. The ability to articulate complex concepts and sensitive issues clearly and persuasively to a variety of audiences, from technical staff to board members. Proven ability to build credibility and influence stakeholders at all levels.
Personal Attributes
A high degree of integrity, professionalism, and ethical fortitude. A proactive, self-motivated individual who thrives in a fast-paced, high-growth, and technology-focused environment. Strong project management skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top talent by offering a highly competitive compensation and benefits package, including:
- Competitive base salary and a significant annual performance-based bonus.
- Meaningful equity participation in a high-growth company.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents.
- A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match.
- Generous paid time off (PTO) and company holidays to support work-life balance.
- A professional development budget to support continuous learning, certifications, and conference attendance.
- A modern and collaborative office environment in Salt Lake City, with flexible/hybrid work arrangements.
- Company-sponsored wellness programs and a stipend for health and fitness activities.
- Opportunities for significant career growth and impact within a disruptive and innovative company.
How to Apply
This is a confidential, retained search conducted by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative audit leader passionate about building a world-class function within a leading-edge FinTech company, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this exceptional opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience. JRG Partners is a leader in executive recruitment for the financial and accounting sectors. To learn more about our expertise and explore other opportunities, we invite you to visit our Finance & Accounting Practice Area page. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
