Head of Internal Audit

Oliver James is partnering with a growing insurance organization seeking an experienced Internal Audit leader to oversee and further develop its Internal Audit function.

Reporting directly to the CFO, this is a highly visible leadership opportunity with responsibility for shaping the function’s strategic direction, strengthening its capabilities, and ensuring it continues to evolve alongside the broader organization.

The successful candidate will inherit an established audit team while having the opportunity to assess and enhance existing processes, expand audit coverage, and drive improvements across the function.

This position offers significant exposure to executive leadership and Board-level stakeholders, along with the opportunity to play a key role in the organization’s continued growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the Internal Audit function, including the development and execution of a comprehensive, risk-based audit strategy.

• Assess and enhance existing audit methodologies, processes, and frameworks to support the organization’s evolving needs.

• Oversee financial, operational, regulatory, compliance, and technology-focused audits across the organization.

• Provide independent assurance and recommendations to executive leadership and Board-level stakeholders on internal controls, governance, and risk management.

• Lead, mentor, and develop an established audit team, identifying opportunities to strengthen capabilities and support future growth.

• Strengthen IT Audit coverage, including technology risks, cybersecurity, and IT general controls.

• Partner with senior leaders across Finance, Operations, Technology, and other business functions to identify emerging risks and opportunities for improvement.

• Support the continued development and maturity of the Internal Audit function, including enhancements to reporting, data analytics, and audit practices.

Requirements

• 15+ years of progressive experience across Internal Audit, External Audit, Risk Management, or related assurance functions, including significant leadership experience.

• Must have insurance industry experience, preferably within Property & Casualty insurance.

• Demonstrated experience leading Internal Audit teams, audit programs, or significant audit engagements within complex organizations.

• Broad understanding of financial, operational, regulatory, and technology risks, with exposure to IT Audit, cybersecurity, and technology controls.

• Proven ability to engage and influence senior executives and communicate effectively with Board-level stakeholders.

• Experience developing or enhancing Internal Audit functions, including audit methodologies, team capabilities, and risk-based audit planning.

• Must have experience within publicly traded organization – Public Accounting exposure highly desirable

• CPA preferred; CIA, CISA, or other relevant professional certifications are a plus.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position, now or in the future.