Mediabistro logo
job logo

Executive Director, Audit

Merck, Rahway, NJ, United States


Job Description

The Executive Director, Corporate Audit and Assurance Services will lead and deliver risk‑based, value‑added internal audit and assurance services. This senior finance and audit leader will partner with business leaders and senior management to assess risks, design and execute complex audits, with a focus on internal controls and compliance. The role combines hands‑on audit leadership with people development, project management, and strategic influence.

Primary Responsibilities

  • Partner with the Vice President and audit peers to design and implement an annual risk‑based audit plan aligned with enterprise strategy.
  • Prepare and present clear, concise audit reports that summarize findings, implications, and recommended actions.
  • Lead and direct multiple concurrent high‑risk and complex audits from scoping through reporting and follow‑up; ensure timely completion and appropriate escalation.
  • Serve as a trusted advisor to business leaders: communicate findings diplomatically and foster collaborative relationships.
  • Monitor and evaluate application of body of knowledge (audit standards, control frameworks, regulatory requirements) across complex business scenarios; identify and report non‑conformances.
  • Recruit, develop, coach, and retain top talent; create a high‑performing team through effective selection, deployment, and career advancement in roles throughout the organization.
  • Promote a culture of ethics, accountability, and continuous improvement across the organization.
  • Oversee internal training and professional development programs for audit staff; ensure team maintains relevant certifications and technical skills.
  • Support other administrative and operational activities to enable the effective functioning of the Corporate Audit and Assurance Services group.
  • Travel domestically and internationally to assigned regions/entities as needed (estimated up to 15%).

Education

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field. CPA preferred.

Required Experience and Skills

  • Broad experience across risk management, finance, IT and/or internal audit with demonstrated interaction with senior leadership.
  • Proven track record leading and executing complex, high‑risk audit engagements.
  • Exceptional oral and written communication skills; ability to present complex issues clearly to executive audiences.
  • Demonstrated leadership, high ethical standards, sound judgment, and integrity when representing the Company internally and externally.
  • Results‑driven, with the ability to focus teams on critical metrics that drive organizational performance.
  • Innovative mindset with a history of implementing process improvements, new ways of working and use of technology.
  • Willingness to travel up to 15% domestically and internationally.
  • Will be required to work on‑site in Rahway 3 days per week.

Preferred Experience and Skills

  • Experience leading, developing, and coaching high‑performing audit teams.
  • Professional audit and/or control certifications such as CPA, CISA, CIA, CMA, or CFE.
  • Experience with Sarbanes‑Oxley compliance and broader business compliance programs.
  • Big Four public accounting experience.

Core Competencies

  • Strategic thinking and risk orientation
  • Audit methodology and control frameworks
  • Stakeholder management and executive presence
  • Team leadership, coaching, and talent development
  • Project & program management
  • Communication and influence
  • Ethics, integrity and objectivity
  • Continuous improvement and innovation
  • Technical knowledge: accounting standards, internal controls, ITGCs, data analytics (preferred)

Required Skills

Accounting Applications, Budget Preparation, Client Management, Coaching, Contract Audits, Ethical Standards, Financial Analysis, Internal Audit Development, International Mobility, People Leadership, Personal Initiative, Preparation of Financial Reports, Report Writing, Tax Return Analysis

Benefits and Compensation

Salary range: $231,900.00 - $365,000.00. The successful candidate will be eligible for annual bonus and long‑term incentive, if applicable. We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits, retirement benefits (401(k)), paid holidays, vacation and compassionate and sick days.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

As an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, we provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. As a federal contractor, we comply with all affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

#J-18808-Ljbffr