Guardian Life Insurance

Lead Specialist, General Audit

Guardian Life Insurance$86K — $141K *
Legal & Accounting
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5+ years of experience in internal or external audit functions.
  • Strong analytical skills for process assessment, data analysis, and risk evaluation.
  • Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Outstanding written and verbal communication abilities for clear articulation of complex ideas.
  • Strong interpersonal skills to build relationships and collaborate effectively with various stakeholders.
  • Experience in the insurance or financial services industry is advantageous.
  • Working knowledge of IT and cybersecurity in operational audits is beneficial.
  • Familiarity with enabling technologies like RPA, NLP, and AI is a plus.
  • Bachelor's degree in accounting or business preferred.
  • Professional certifications (CIA, CPA, CFE, CISA, etc.) are mandatory.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and execute complex audit projects adhering to established methodologies.
  • Influence and communicate with management to improve risk management practices.
  • Collaborate with audit team members to leverage diverse skills and expertise.
  • Mentor junior auditors by sharing knowledge of departmental processes and company operations.
  • Monitor outstanding audit recommendations and perform follow-ups as necessary.
  • Provide advisory services on business functions and processes upon request.
  • Support governance, compliance, investigations, and enterprise risk assessments as needed.
  • Assist external auditors and Controls Assurance team with testing and coordination.
  • Work with Internal Audit leadership to enhance departmental practices.
  • Ensure compliance with departmental policies, demonstrating quality assurance and performance metrics.
  • Stay updated on industry trends and regulations, while participating in special projects.

Benefits

  • Hybrid work model allowing 3 days in-office and 2 days work from home.
  • Opportunity to lead complex audit assignments and mentor junior staff.
  • Access to professional development and continuing education opportunities.
  • Engage with various functions and senior management across the organization.
  • Experience in a fast-paced environment within the insurance sector.
Full Job Description

This role will support the Head of Corporate Shared Services, Internal Audit. Typically, this position functions as a working audit project manager, fully responsible for planning, executing, and reporting audits independently and, on occasion, within a team. This role is focused on performing high quality, value-add, assurance and advisory services that identify, evaluate, and report on highly complex business risks and controls in accordance with the Institute of Internal Auditors Standards and established methodologies.

This role will identify meaningful observations about the design and operating effectiveness of controls and discuss with various levels of manag

ement on improving the internal control environment. You will be frequently sought after as a key resource for complex assignments. This position is focused on the Corporate Functions (e.g., Strategic Initiatives, Corporate Development, Law, Compliance, Marketing, Communication, Talent & Culture, etc.) with the possibility of covering other business and functional areas of the Company.

You are

  • An individual who is highly efficient and effective to lead an audit from planning, execution, and reporting. Possesses an experienced knowledge level of business processes, risks, and controls. You have a strong knowledge of general business and the insurance industry. Ability to multi-task and exemplify strong organizational skills and project management skills in a deadline-driven environment.

You will

  • Lead and execute complex assurance projects in accordance with established methodologies and professional standards.

  • Demonstrate influencing skills when communicating with business areas and other risk assurance providers aimed to continually improve relationships and enable management to proactively manage risk.

  • Collaborate with other members of the audit team to leverage their skill sets, experience, and expertise; providing the same.

  • Act as a mentor to new or less experienced auditors by providing guidance on Department processes and sharing knowledge of Company operations, product lines, etc.

  • Monitor all outstanding recommendations and action plans for the assigned audits; prepare status commentary and perform follow-up testing as needed.

  • Provide advisory services on projects, business functions, and processes, if requested.

  • Provide governance, compliance, investigation, and enterprise risk assessment support, if requested.

  • Assist the external auditors and the Controls Assurance team (Model Audit Rule Program) through coordinating and executing direct assistance testing for select assignments.

  • Work with Internal Audit leadership to identify and continuously improve departmental practices.

  • Monitor and demonstrate compliance with departmental policies and practices, as evidenced by strong quality assurance results, and strong performance within standards and related metrics.

  • Stay abreast of current issues, standard industry practices, regulations, and obtain continuing education and training. Participate in special projects and perform other duties as requested.

  • Interact with all levels of management to provide effective risk and control advice, maintaining active communication with clients to enhance risk and control awareness and manage expectations.

You have

  • 5+ years of broad-based experience in internal audit, external audit, or related functions.

  • Strong analytical skills, with the ability to effectively assess a process, analyze data, and assess risks and controls.

  • Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage concurrent projects (multi-task) and meet deadlines with minimal supervision.

  • Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to write clearly and concisely.

  • Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships and clearly articulate thoughts and ideas.

  • Ability to collaborate with others, both inside and outside of the department, while working toward common goals and fostering understanding and agreement.

  • Experience in the insurance or financial services industry is a plus.

  • Working knowledge of information technology, cybersecurity, and ability to apply to operational audits is a plus.

  • Understanding of enabling technologies, including robotics process automation (RPA), natural language processing (NLP), and/or artificial intelligence (AI) is a plus.

  • Bachelors degree required (accounting or business degree is a plus)

  • Professional accreditations, licenses, or designations required  (CIA, CPA, CFE, CISA, etc.)

Location

Hybrid role - 3 days in office in Hudson Yards, NYC; Bethlehem, PA or Holmdel, NJ office; 2 days WFH

Salary Range:

$86,210.00 - $141,635.00

The salary range reflected above is a good faith estimate of base pay for the primary location of the position. The salary for this position ultimately will be determined based on the education, experience, knowledge, and abilities of the successful candidate. In addition to salary, this role may also be eligible for annual, sales, or other incentive compensation.

About Guardian Life Insurance

Guardian Life Insurance Careers

Join the Guardian Life Insurance team today and be part of a company that values growth, leadership, and innovation. As a leading provider in the insurance industry, Guardian Life Insurance offers a wealth of job opportunities that empower you to shape your future and strengthen your professional skills. Work You’ll Do At Guardian Life Insurance, you’ll collaborate with a diverse team of experts dedicated to providing exceptional service and innovative solutions to our clients. Our culture thrives on inclusivity and the shared ambition of our team members to drive positive change in the insurance sector. Explore a variety of career paths in areas ranging from customer service to financial advisement, each offering the potential to engage with transformative projects that impact lives. Our commitment to professional growth is evident in our robust training programs, including leadership development and diversity training, designed to enhance your skills and advance your career. Innovative Work Guardian Life Insurance is at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge technology and personalized service. Join us and contribute to initiatives that redefine industry standards and lead to more predictive and personalized customer experiences. Be Part of a Great Team Our team at Guardian Life Insurance is our strongest asset. We foster an environment where creativity and effectiveness are encouraged, making it a perfect place for those who seek to innovate and excel in their careers. With a focus on nurturing talent, we offer comprehensive benefits, competitive salaries, and a supportive atmosphere that advocates work-life balance. Future-Proof Your Career With Guardian Life Insurance, your career is future-proof. Dive into a range of employment opportunities that not only align with your current skills but also challenge you to grow and expand your capabilities. Whether you’re looking for a full-time position, an internship, or even leadership roles, Guardian Life Insurance is committed to helping you find the right path. Stay Connected Join Our Team Discover the job opportunities waiting for you at Guardian Life Insurance. We are continuously hiring and looking for individuals who are passionate, driven, and ready to contribute to our mission. Search open positions that match your skills and interests, and take the first step towards a rewarding career with us. Keep Up to Date Stay informed with the latest career tips, industry insights, and company news—all from the professionals who make Guardian Life Insurance a leader in the insurance industry. Our careers blog provides valuable information to help you prepare for your next interview, polish your resume, and enhance your networking abilities. Job Alert Emails Customize your experience by subscribing to job alerts and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at Guardian Life Insurance, and see how you can contribute to our legacy of excellence and innovation. Join Guardian Life Insurance today and be part of a company that’s dedicated to your career growth and professional development.
Learn more about Guardian Life Insurance
Size
9,000 employees
Industry
Founded
1860

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