Internal Audit Manager

POSITION SUMMARY
This individual will have responsibility for planning, performing and overseeing audits of corporate and property functions, including Sarbanes-Oxley 404 compliance, external audit support and a variety of corporate audit projects. Additionally, work closely with the management team, providing advice and guidance on process matters that impact the business.

RESPONSIBILITIES
Prepare the annual risk assessment.
Develop and maintain an audit plan to evaluate and improve effectiveness of risk management, control and corporate governance.
Plan, schedule and in some instances perform audits, including Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance.
Oversee and execute audit tests competently; evaluate the company’s internal controls looking for both control gaps and opportunities to grain process efficiencies; identify internal control issues and ensure they are well-defined, root causes analyzed and discussed and agreed with management.
Prepare internal audit reports for management, make recommendations for internal control and process enhancements and obtain management's feedback to be included in the final audit reports.
Assist business management with developing appropriate action plans to address audit observations.
Monitor status of department’s projects and ensure they are on schedule.
Perform semi-annual follow-up on outstanding management actions from past projects and ensure corrective actions are implemented timely.
Ensure overall quality and consistency of audit work, and adherence to department and professional standards.
Lead, mentor and assist in development of audit staff.
Partner with external audit firm to increase reliance on Internal Audit work.
Perform other duties as requested by the Audit Committee or Sr. Management.
Assist in special investigations and other projects as assigned.
Ability to remain current with industry trends and maintain all professional certifications.

QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree required; Accounting or Finance preferred.
CPA/CIA preferred.
2+ years SOX experience required.
5+ years experience in audit required.
2+ years managerial experience required-preferably in an audit capacity.
Knowledge of real estate preferred.
Strong analytical, written/verbal communication, interpersonal, and relationship building skills.
Ability to work independently, adapt to change quickly, multi-task and be part of a team.
Flexible and willing to adapt to changing priorities and responsibilities
Ability to travel as needed. Essex offers a comprehensive benefits package that reflects how much we value our associates and their families:

For regular full-time associates regularly scheduled to work at least thirty (30) hours per week:
• Medical, Dental, Pre-tax flex plan, Basic life insurance, Supplemental life, Short- and long-term disability, Accidental death insurance plans.

For part-time and full-time associates:
• Employer-matching 401(k) plan that offers financial planning and independent brokerage services.
• Wellness Program, 24-hour Employee Assistance, Service awards and Paid time-off.