Director, Internal Audit

Position Summary: 

As we continue to scale and innovate, we are seeking a strategic and experienced Director of Internal Audit to lead our enterprise-wide internal audit function, providing independent, objective assurance and consulting services designed to ensure strong governance, risk management, and internal controls across all facets of our business. This Director plans, executes, and reports on audits that evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of the company's internal controls, risk management, governance, and compliance processes. This leader will partner with executive management and the Audit Committee to provide assurance and recommendations on how to improve the company's performance and mitigate risks while also ensuring compliance with regulatory and financial reporting requirements (e.g., SOX 404). They also ensure that the internal audit team follows the professional standards and best practices of the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA).    

Key Responsibilities: 

• Audit Strategy & Execution: 

• Develop and execute a risk-based annual audit plan aligned with the company’s strategic objectives. 

• Lead operational, financial, compliance, and IT audits, including SOX 404 compliance testing. 

• Identify control gaps and recommend effective solutions to mitigate risks. 

• Collaborate with process owners, business units, external auditors, and third-party partners to ensure alignment and effective communication of audit objectives and findings. 

• Leadership & Team Management: 

• Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing internal audit team, including recruiting, training, and performance management. 

• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and professional development. 

• Ensure the team stays current with emerging audit trends, regulatory changes, and best practices. 

• Governance & Compliance: 

• Maintain strong working relationships with the Audit Committee, executive leadership, external auditors, and regulatory bodies. 

• Prepare and present quarterly Audit Committee reports, highlighting key findings, action plans and remediation progress. 

• Ensure compliance with SEC, PCAOB, NYSE/NASDAQ, and other applicable regulatory requirements. 

• Promote a culture of ethical behavior and strong governance throughout the organization. 

• Risk Management: 

• Collaborate with the enterprise risk management (ERM) team to assess evolving business and operational risks. 

• Advise on internal controls and process improvements across business units, including store operations, supply chain, merchandising, and e-commerce. 

• Promote a risk-aware culture and ensure that risk management practices are integrated into business operations. 

• Technology & Data Analytics: 

• Champion the use of AI and machine learning tools for data analytics, audit automation, and decision making. 

• Demonstrate strong knowledge of IT systems and controls including the responsible and ethical use of AI  

• Oversee audits of cybersecurity, data privacy, and digital transformation initiatives 

Qualifications: 

• Education & Certifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (Master’s degree preferred) 

• CPA, CIA, or CISA certification required 

• Experience: 

• 10+ years of progressive audit or risk management experience, preferably within a large publicly traded company and/or Big 4/public accounting firm. 

• At least 5 years in a leadership or managerial role. 

• Experience with SOX 404 implementation and compliance. 

• Retail industry experience is highly preferred. 

• Proven experience with GRC tools (e.g., AuditBoard) 

• Exposure to international operations and regulatory environments is a plus 

• Skills & Competencies: 

• Strong understanding of internal control frameworks (e.g., COSO), risk assessments, SOX compliance, and audit methodologies. 

• Ability to innovate and drive process improvements. 

• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. 

• Proven ability to interact with senior executives and the Audit Committee. 

• High ethical standards, integrity, and sound judgment. 

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. 

Five Below is an Equal Opportunity Employer