Internal Audit Manager

Internal Audit ManagerReports To: Chief Financial Officer (CFO)About Lakeland Fire + SafetyAt Lakeland Fire + Safety, we protect people, businesses, and communities around the world through innovative protective solutions. As a global organization experiencing continued growth and transformation, we are looking for a dynamic Internal Audit Manager to help shape the future of our governance, risk, and compliance programs.This is a unique opportunity to build and elevate the Internal Audit function while partnering directly with executive leadership to strengthen controls, improve processes, and drive operational excellence across our global business.If you're a naturally curious problem solver who enjoys uncovering insights, influencing change, and helping organizations operate more effectively, we'd love to meet you.Position SummaryThe Internal Audit Manager will play a critical role in establishing and leading Lakeland's Internal Audit function. Reporting directly to the CFO, this highly visible position will partner across Finance, Operations, IT, Human Resources, Supply Chain, and Commercial functions to identify risks, strengthen internal controls, and uncover opportunities to improve business performance.This role goes beyond compliance. We are seeking a strategic thinker who can leverage data, build strong relationships, and provide meaningful insights that help the business operate more effectively while supporting Lakeland's continued growth and global expansion.What You'll DoBuild and Lead the Internal Audit FunctionHelp design, implement, and mature Lakeland's Internal Audit program and annual audit strategy.Develop risk-based audit plans aligned with organizational priorities and emerging business risks.Continuously improve audit methodologies, tools, and reporting processes to maximize effectiveness and efficiency.Conduct Risk-Based AuditsLead end-to-end audits, including planning, risk assessments, test plan development, fieldwork, reporting, and follow-up activities.Evaluate operational, financial, compliance, regulatory, and third-party risks across the organization.Assess end-to-end business processes using established audit frameworks and risk-based methodologies.Drive Business ImprovementIdentify root causes of control gaps, process inefficiencies, and compliance risks.Partner with business leaders to develop practical and sustainable remediation plans.Provide actionable recommendations that improve controls, streamline operations, and support business objectives.Monitor corrective action plans and report progress to management and executive leadership.Partner Across the BusinessDevelop strong relationships with leaders throughout the organization and become a trusted advisor on risk and controls.Collaborate closely with Finance, IT, Operations, Human Resources, Supply Chain, and external partners.Support management in navigating new and emerging regulatory requirements and business risks.Support Governance & ComplianceEvaluate the effectiveness of internal controls, governance practices, and risk management processes.Assess compliance with company policies, regulatory requirements, and industry standards.Participate in special projects, investigations, and strategic initiatives as needed.What Makes This Role ExcitingOpportunity to build and shape the Internal Audit function from the ground up.Direct exposure to executive leadership and global business operations.Ability to influence meaningful organizational improvements.Broad visibility across Finance, Operations, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, IT, and HR.Global scope with opportunities for domestic and international travel.Opportunity to support a growing public company through transformation initiatives, including SAP implementation and process modernization.QualificationsRequiredBachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field (or equivalent experience).8+ years of audit experience, including experience within a Big Four public accounting firm and/or a corporate Internal Audit function of a U.S. public company.Strong knowledge of internal auditing standards, methodologies, risk assessment practices, and internal control frameworks.Demonstrated experience evaluating financial, operational, compliance, and strategic risks.Proven ability to influence stakeholders and build strong cross-functional partnerships.Strong written and verbal communication skills, including executive-level reporting and presentations.Ability to manage multiple priorities and thrive in a fast-paced environment.Experience leading projects independently and translating ambiguity into action.PreferredMaster's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field.Professional certifications such as CIA, CPA, or CFE.Experience with third-party risk management programs.Working knowledge of IT General Controls (ITGCs).Experience supporting or auditing ERP implementations.SAP experience strongly preferred.Experience within manufacturing, industrial, textile, PPE, or global distribution environments.Success FactorsThe ideal candidate is:Curious, analytical, and highly collaborative.A strategic thinker who can balance risk management with business objectives.Comfortable asking thoughtful, probing questions and challenging assumptions.Skilled at identifying opportunities for continuous improvement.Confident working with executives and operational leaders alike.Passionate about helping organizations become stronger, smarter, and more efficient.Travel RequirementsUp to 25% domestic and international travel.Lakeland Fire + Safety is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.