Lead Financial Reporting Analyst – Controls
Location: Lincoln, NE (Hybrid) | Potential remote flexibility for candidates in Kansas City, MO or Des Moines, IA
Oliver James is partnering with an established insurance and financial services organization seeking an experienced Financial Controls & Reporting professional to join its growing team.
This is an excellent opportunity for an Internal Audit, SOX/MAR, or Financial Controls professional looking to take on a highly visible role focused on strengthening the organization’s controls environment, supporting regulatory compliance, and driving process improvements across Accounting and Finance.
The successful candidate will serve as a key resource and subject matter expert for financial controls, working closely with senior leadership and cross-functional stakeholders. The position offers significant exposure across the business, with strong potential for career progression as the controls function continues to develop.
Key Responsibilities
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Lead and support internal controls over financial reporting (ICFR), including control documentation, testing, assessment, and ongoing improvements.
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Support Model Audit Rule (MAR) and SOX-related compliance activities, including control evaluations, documentation, testing, and remediation.
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Evaluate existing financial processes and controls, identify potential risks or deficiencies, and recommend improvements to strengthen the control environment.
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Partner closely with Accounting, Finance, and other business stakeholders to ensure effective control design, implementation, and operating effectiveness.
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Serve as a key point of contact and subject matter expert for financial controls, providing guidance on control frameworks, compliance requirements, and best practices.
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Research and assess technical accounting developments, regulatory changes, and complex transactions to determine potential impacts on financial reporting and internal controls.
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Support financial and regulatory reporting activities, including analysis, documentation, and compliance with applicable requirements.
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Identify opportunities to streamline processes, enhance control efficiency, and support broader organizational initiatives and system implementations.
Ideal Background
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3-5+ years of experience in Internal Audit, External Audit, Financial Controls, SOX/MAR Compliance, Risk Advisory, or a related function.
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Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
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Strong understanding of internal controls over financial reporting (ICFR), including control design, testing, documentation, and remediation.
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Experience with MAR, SOX, or similar financial control and regulatory compliance frameworks.
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Experience within the insurance industry, particularly Life Insurance, is highly preferred.
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Background in public accounting, internal audit, or a combination of public accounting and industry experience is advantageous.
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Understanding of financial reporting processes, accounting principles, and the impact of complex transactions on financial controls.
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Ability to evaluate existing control environments, identify gaps, and recommend practical improvements beyond traditional audit testing.
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Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments and with senior stakeholders.
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CPA, CIA, or other relevant professional certifications are a plus.
