Lead Auditor

Northbrook, IL | 3 days in the office, 2 days work from home

Join a $6+ billion global organization where Internal Audit is viewed as a strategic business partner, not just a compliance function. This role offers the opportunity to lead high-impact operational audits across manufacturing facilities, distribution networks, corporate functions, and third-party partners while working directly with senior leadership to drive operational excellence, strengthen controls, and improve business performance.

As a Lead Auditor, you will lead complex audit engagements, mentor audit professionals, leverage data analytics to identify risk, and influence meaningful change across the organization. This position provides exceptional exposure to business operations, executive leadership, and enterprise-wide initiatives.

• Lead the planning, execution, and reporting of operational audits across manufacturing plants, distribution facilities, corporate functions, vendors, and contractors.
• Manage and develop teams of Senior Auditors, Staff Auditors, and co-sourced partners while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth.
• Evaluate operational processes, business risks, and internal controls to identify opportunities for increased efficiency, effectiveness, and compliance.
• Partner with business leaders to develop practical solutions and remediation plans that enhance controls and improve operational performance.
• Review the reliability and integrity of financial and operational information used to support business decisions.
• Assess compliance with company policies, regulatory requirements, and applicable accounting standards.
• Lead audit kickoff, status update, and closing meetings with stakeholders across all levels of the organization, including senior leadership.
• Utilize data analytics to identify emerging risks, unusual trends, and opportunities for process improvement.
• Monitor remediation efforts and ensure corrective actions are effectively implemented throughout the organization.
• Collaborate with external auditors and provide support during annual audit activities.
• Conduct special projects, investigations, and risk assessments as requested by Internal Audit leadership.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to business partners on risk management, internal controls, and operational best practices.

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in Internal Audit, Public Accounting, Risk Advisory, or a related discipline.
• Professional certification preferred, including CPA, CIA, CISA, and/or MBA.
• Experience leading operational and risk-based audits in complex organizations.
• Strong project management and team leadership capabilities.
• Ability to build relationships and communicate effectively with stakeholders ranging from plant leadership to executive management.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
• Experience with data analytics tools and techniques is highly preferred.
• SAP experience is a plus.
• Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office and audit management software.

This role is well-suited for candidates coming from Big 4 Advisory, Internal Audit, Risk Consulting, or Fortune 500 Internal Audit environments who are looking for a leadership position with broader business exposure, greater influence, and the opportunity to drive meaningful operational improvements across a global enterprise.

• Broad exposure to a global manufacturing and distribution organization.
• High visibility with senior leadership and key decision-makers.
• Opportunity to influence operational strategy and business performance.
• Leadership role with responsibility for mentoring and developing audit talent.
• Exposure to data analytics, process improvement initiatives and enterprise risk management.
• Clear path for career advancement within a large complex organization.