Director, Internal Audit & SOX

Organizations everywhere struggle under the crushing costs and complexities of “solutions” that promise to simplify their lives. To create a better experience for their customers and employees. To help them grow. Software is a choice that can make or break a business. Create better or worse experiences. Propel or throttle growth. Business software has become a blocker instead of ways to get work done.

There’s another option. Freshworks. With a fresh vision for how the world works.

At Freshworks, we build uncomplicated service software that delivers exceptional customer and employee experiences. Our enterprise-grade solutions are powerful, yet easy to use, and quick to deliver results. Our people-first approach to AI eliminates friction, making employees more effective and organizations more productive. Over 72,000 companies, including Bridgestone, New Balance, Nucor, S&P Global, and Sony Music, trust Freshworks’ customer experience (CX) and employee experience (EX) software to fuel customer loyalty and service efficiency. And, over 4,500 Freshworks employees make this possible, all around the world.

Fresh vision. Real impact. Come build it with us.

We are seeking a proactive and practical Director, Internal Audit & SOX to enhance Freshworks' SOX program, enterprise risk management, and overall Internal Audit function. This role, reporting to the VP, Internal Audit & SOX at our San Mateo, CA HQ, will be responsible for executing Freshworks' risk-based internal audit program. Beyond traditional audit functions, this individual will act as a strategic advisor to the business, driving enterprise risk alignment and governance. 

What You'll Do: 

• Internal Audit Leadership:
  • Support the VP, Internal Audit & SOX to manage the internal audit team, including performance management, professional development, and resource allocation. 
  • Lead the development and execution of the annual risk-based internal audit plan. 
  • Ensure internal audits are conducted in accordance with IIA professional standards and best practices. 
  • Oversee the remediation of identified control deficiencies and monitor progress. 
• SOX Compliance Management:
  • Partner with the control owners and current SOX team to lead the design, implementation, and ongoing oversight of the SOX compliance program.
  • Coordinate with external auditors and other stakeholders to ensure SOX requirements are met. 
  • Oversee the testing and documentation of internal controls over financial reporting.
  • Identify and assess SOX-related risks and develop remediation plans for identified deficiencies.
  • Identify efficiencies to mature the SOX program. 
• Enterprise Risk Management (ERM): 
  • Partner with business leaders to identify and assess key business risks. 
  • Contribute to the development and implementation of ERM strategies and initiatives. 
  • Provide guidance and support to business units on risk management best practices.
  • Monitor and report on the effectiveness of the organization's risk management process. 
• Other Responsibilities: 
  • Stay abreast of regulatory changes and industry best practices related to internal audit, SOX, and ERM. 
  • Manage relationships with external auditors and other third-party service providers.
  • Participate in special projects and initiatives as needed to drive the maturity of the Internal Audit function. 

Please note this is a hybrid role with onsite expectations of 3x/week (Tues - Thurs) from our San Mateo, CA headquarters.

What You'll Bring to the Team: 

• Strategic Leadership: Ability to develop and execute strategic plans, manage teams, and drive initiatives. 
• Technical Expertise: Deep understanding of internal controls, risk management, and regulatory requirements (e.g., SOX, COSO, PCAOB). 
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate with stakeholders at all levels of the organization. 
• Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze complex data, identify risks, and develop effective solutions. 
• Project Management: Experience managing complex projects, including planning, execution, and monitoring. 
• Relevant Experience: Experience working in tech companies and public accounting or with external auditors is preferred 
• Professional Certifications: CPA, CIA, CRMA, CISA, or other relevant certifications are preferred 

The annual base salary range for this position is $190,500 - $273,000. This role is also eligible for a target bonus. 

Compensation is based on a variety of factors including but not limited to location, experience, job-related skills, and level.

Freshworks offers multiple options for dental, medical, vision, disability and life insurances. Equity + ESPP, flexible PTO, flexible spending, commuter benefits and wellness benefits are also offered. Freshworks also offers adoption and parental leave benefits.

At Freshworks, we are creating a global workplace that enables everyone to find their true potential, purpose, and passion irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion and ethnicity. We are committed to providing equal opportunity for all and believe that diversity in the workplace creates a more vibrant, richer work environment that advances the goals of our employees, communities and the business.