Manager, Finance - Internal Audit
Chicago, IL, US, 60610
Job Summary
The Manager, Internal Audit – Business Process Controls (SOX) will be a key member of Verano’s Internal Audit function, responsible for designing, executing, and maintaining the company’s Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance and business process control program.
This highly visible role partners with Finance, Operations, and Compliance teams to evaluate the effectiveness of internal controls, strengthen process governance, and ensure compliance with regulatory and organizational requirements. The ideal candidate will combine strong SOX technical expertise with practical business process knowledge and the ability to influence change across a dynamic, fast-growing organization.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Lead SOX Program Execution:
Manage the annual SOX compliance process, including scoping, walkthroughs, risk and control assessments, testing of key controls, and remediation tracking. - Assess Business Process Controls:
Evaluate the design and operating effectiveness of controls across key financial and operational cycles (e.g., revenue, inventory, procurement-to-pay, payroll, financial close, etc.). - Coordinate External Audit Support:
Serve as the primary liaison with external auditors to ensure efficient coordination of control testing and documentation. - Drive Continuous Improvement:
Recommend practical solutions for identified control gaps, inefficiencies, or process weaknesses; support management in developing and implementing remediation plans. - Perform Risk-Based Audits:
Plan and execute operational, compliance, and financial audits in accordance with the Global Internal Audit Standards (IIA, 2024). - Support Risk and Compliance Initiatives:
Contribute to enterprise and fraud risk assessments and help strengthen Verano’s control-conscious culture. - Advise on New Processes and Systems:
Provide control design input for new initiatives and system implementations, ensuring compliance and sustainability of control frameworks. - Optimize GRC and Automation:
Assist with optimization of Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) tools (AuditBoard) and explore opportunities to automate testing through analytics, workflow automation, and AI. - Deliver Insightful Communication:
Present audit findings and recommendations to senior management and process owners clearly and persuasively, both in writing and verbally.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related discipline
- CPA or CIA certification
- 5+ years of progressive experience in internal audit, SOX compliance, or external audit (public accounting or Fortune 500 experience preferred)
- Strong understanding of Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX 404), COSO Internal Control Framework, and risk-based auditing principles
- Solid knowledge of business process controls and risk management practices
- Excellent communication, analytical, and project management skills
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, and adaptable in a dynamic environment
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office; familiarity with ERP and supporting systems (SAP, Sage Intacct, BlackLine, etc.)
- Proficiency in AuditBoard or other GRC platforms
Preferred Qualifications
- CISA certification or ITGC experience
- Experience using GRC tools (e.g., AuditBoard or similar)
- Familiarity with data analytics platforms (e.g., Power BI, ACL, Tableau)
- Experience in a multi-entity or regulated industry (cannabis, manufacturing, or retail a plus)
- Demonstrated success leading or optimizing a SOX program
Physical and Mental Demands
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to remain in a stationary position, move and/or position oneself, communicate, operate and/or prepare, place, position objects, tools, or controls The employee must occasionally move packages weighing up to 10 lb Specific vision abilities required by this job include close observation and the ability to adjust focus The mental and physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an individual, with or without reasonable accommodation, to successfully perform the essential functions of this position.
Working Environment
Work is performed in an office environment The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an individual encounters while performing the essential functions of this position.
Nearest Major Market: Chicago