Head of Strategy, Operations, and Professional Practices - Internal Audit

Reporting directly to the Chief Audit Executive (CAE) of a Fortune 250 insurance company, the Chief of Staff & Head of Strategy, Operations, and Professional Practices, will collaborate closely with the CAE and Internal Audit Leadership Team to establish and complete strategic goals and standards of excellence for delivering internal audit services within the Company.

This position plays a crucial role in crafting the strategic priorities and transformation initiatives of the Internal Audit Department (IAD), driving continuous process improvements, implementing industry best practices, and overseeing the Internal Audit Operations and Professional Practices team.

You will

• Support in developing and implementing the Department’s strategic initiatives and long-term transformational roadmap.

• Facilitate the Department’s Internal Audit Life Cycle, including risk assessment, development, and execution of the audit plan, as well as assessment of the Company’s internal control maturity.

• Coordinate operations, including audit plan management, budgeting and forecasting, resource allocation and utilization, and monitoring Department metrics and reporting.

• Prepare reports and deliverables for the Audit & Risk Committee and subsidiary boards.

• Maintain and update the Department’s audit methodology and professional standards.

• Administer and provide support for the Department’s software.

• Deliver support services to the Department.

You are

• A proactive leader driven by self-motivation and a keen sense of responsibility, adept at making critical decisions.

• A strategic problem solver with the ability to connect various priorities across the Department, translating conceptual ideas into actionable strategies while collaborating closely with audit teams and business/functional area management.

• An effective collaborator who champions collaboration and converts innovative ideas into practical solutions, building strong and dependable relationships with partners both within the Department, across the Company, and with industry peers.

• Results oriented, capable of delivering with a sense of urgency while maintaining quality standards.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, influential, and proficient in articulating ideas professionally and clearly.

• High emotional intelligence, diplomatic, and maintains strict confidentiality.

• Skilled in project and time management, thrives in a fast-paced environment, handles multiple projects simultaneously with a focus on meeting deadlines, and takes ownership of commitments.

You have

• 10 plus years of expertise in transformation, business planning, business process improvement, value chain creation, organizational design, change management and audit innovation.

• Consistent record in developing and implementing business strategies and operational initiatives, including implementing departmental projects, technologies and tools, and training programs.

• Experienced in leading and implementing innovative approaches to improve the customer experience.

• Skilled in program and project management, team leadership, executive reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning.

• Capable of coordinating multiple partner functions in a matrixed environment.

• Familiarity with developing risk-based audit methodologies; conducting risk assessments and annual audit planning, risk and control evaluations, audit quality assurance practices, and the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing.

• Professional certifications related to project management, auditing, or risk management are advantageous.

• Experience in the financial services industry, particularly insurance, is beneficial.

• Desirable experience with TeamMate+ audit software.

• Bachelor’s degree preferred, .but not required if experience is aligned

Location

Hybrid: 2 days in office, 3 days WFH. Preferred location – Hudson Yards, New York City; Holmdel, NJ; Stamford CT; or Bethlehem, PA.

#hybrid

Salary Range

$126,970.00 - $208,600.00

The salary range reflected above is a good faith estimate of base pay for the primary location of the position. The salary for this position ultimately will be determined based on the education, experience, knowledge, and abilities of the successful candidate. In addition to salary, this role may also be eligible for annual, sales, or other incentive compensation.

Our Promise

At Guardian, you’ll have the support and flexibility to achie