Position: Senior SOX Internal Auditor

Job Description:

Forward Air is seeking a Senior SOX Internal Auditor to play a critical role in supporting the company’s Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance efforts, with a focus on evaluating the effectiveness of internal controls, conducting risk assessments, and assisting in control testing initiatives.  This position will work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance and improve internal control systems, while also identifying opportunities for operational efficiencies and risk mitigation. This role will focus on assessing financial processes, conducting control testing, and identifying risks that could affect financial reporting. 

Core Responsibilities & Duties:

Support the execution of the company’s SOX compliance program, ensuring adherence to SOX requirements Collaborate with management and process owners to evaluate the design and operating effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting (ICFR) Assist in the development and maintenance of internal control documentation, including control matrices, process narratives, and flowcharts Plan, coordinate, and conduct control testing in compliance with SOX standards, ensuring that testing procedures are thorough and consistent Review test results and document deficiencies or control gaps, recommending corrective actions as necessary Analyze and assess financial reporting risks and internal control weaknesses across the organization Prepare detailed audit reports for senior leadership, highlighting risks, control deficiencies, and recommended improvements Work with process owners to implement effective remediation plans for control deficiencies and ensure timely resolution Participate in audits with external auditors and internal teams, ensuring efficient and accurate audit execution Assist with monitoring the status of remediation efforts for control deficiencies identified in SOX testing or audits Stay current with changes in SOX regulations, auditing standards, and industry best practices Develop and maintain effective working relationships with key stakeholders, including process owners and external auditors Identify opportunities to streamline SOX compliance processes and improve overall control testing efficiency Support continuous improvement initiatives by proposing enhancements to internal control systems and processes Provide guidance and mentorship to junior auditors and colleagues in the SOX compliance program Collaborate with IT and data analytics teams to incorporate technology solutions into the SOX compliance program where appropriate Assist in the preparation of quarterly and annual certifications and other SOX-related reporting requirements

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or a related field; CPA, CIA, or other relevant certifications preferred 5+ years of experience in SOX compliance, internal controls, auditing, or related fields Strong understanding of SOX regulations, COSO framework, and internal control principles Experience conducting internal control testing and identifying financial reporting risks Strong analytical skills and attention to detail in evaluating financial processes and controls Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex issues clearly to stakeholders  Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a cross-functional team environment Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and Microsoft Office Suite; experience with data analytics tools a plus Solid project management skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively

Skills:

Strong problem-solving abilities and critical thinking skills Excellent organizational and time management skills Ability to effectively communicate and influence at all levels of the organization High attention to detail with a proactive approach to identifying control weaknesses Demonstrated ability to work under pressure while maintaining a high level of quality and accuracy Proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with a focus on continuous improvement

Forward Air is an Equal Opportunity Employer.