Head of Internal Audit & SOX

Join Avant, a leading fintech company, as the Head of Internal Audit & SOX. In this role, you will build and lead our internal audit and SOX program from the ground up, serving as the principal advisor to the Board's Audit, Risk and Compliance Committee. You will have the autonomy to define the audit strategy, build the function, and drive remediation governance. This position offers a flexible work environment, unlimited paid time off, and a range of benefits.

• Lead and build the internal audit and SOX program from the ground up, evolving Avant’s framework with rigor and judgment.
• Define the audit charter, methodology, and resourcing model; own the enterprise risk assessment and establish a risk-based audit plan.
• Collaborate closely with executive leadership and partners across Finance, Accounting, Technology, Product, Legal, Compliance, and Enterprise Risk to support business goals while maintaining independence.

• A proven track record of building or materially rebuilding an internal audit function or SOX program from an early or undefined state — not just operating within one someone else built
• Direct experience owning the relationship with an audit committee or board — you've built the materials, delivered the readout, defended the plan, and handled tough questions from senior people in the room
• 15+ years in internal audit, SOX, or internal controls, including at least 4 years leading an audit function or SOX program at a Director level or above
• Deep technical command of COSO 2013, SOX 302 and 404, PCAOB AS 2201, the IIA framework, ITGC frameworks, and risk-based audit methodology, including inherent vs. residual risk and deficiency severity evaluation
• An active CPA, CIA, or CISA, and a bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Information Systems, or a related field
• A direct communication style and good judgment about what belongs in front of the Board, with the independence to hold a position under pressure
• Background in a regulated financial services environment — banking, lending, fintech, or payments; bank partnership oversight or consumer lending regulation is a strong plus
• A genuine player-coach mindset — willing to write the risk assessment, run walkthroughs, and execute testing yourself, especially while the function is being built
• We invite you to apply to our positions even if you do not meet 100% of the qualifications listed in the description. If you’re passionate about our mission and aligned to our values, we hope you’ll come contribute to our awesome culture
• Experience managing a co-sourced audit partner or offshore delivery model against a defined scope and budget
• Understanding of consumer finance regulatory frameworks including TILA, ECOA, UDAAP, FCRA, and GLBA, and of BSA/AML audit requirements
• Experience building continuous monitoring or automated testing capabilities within an audit or SOX program