VP, Head of Internal Audit (all genders)

The Head of Internal Audit (HIA) is responsible for leading the Internal Audit function and providing independent, objective assurance and consulting services designed to add value and improve the organization's operations. The HIA helps the organization accomplish its objectives by bringing a systematic, disciplined approach to evaluate and improve the effectiveness of risk management, internal control, and governance processes.  

The HIA derives its authority from the Audit and Compliance Committee through the approval of this Internal Audit Charter. The HIA reports functionally to the Audit and Compliance Committee and administratively (i.e. day-to-day operations) to the Chief Financial Officer. 

Responsibilities:

Internal Audit Strategy & Execution

• Develop and execute a risk‑based internal audit strategy aligned with organizational objectives (financial, operational, compliance, IT, IT security) in accordance with IIA Standards and applicable regulatory requirements (e.g., SOX, PCAOB).

• Lead the preparation and delivery of annual internal audit plans for Audit Committee approval. Build and maintain strong relationships with the Audit Committee, Board, Executive Management, and external auditors.

• Ensure continuous improvement in methodologies, process documentation, automation, and use of advanced audit techniques (analytics, data mining, etc.).

SOX Management Testing & Alignment with External Auditors

• Lead the planning, execution, and reporting of SOX 404 management testing across all relevant entities and processes to ensure compliance with SEC and PCAOB requirements.

• Establish and maintain robust testing procedures, documentation standards, and control evaluation frameworks aligned with COSO and PCAOB guidelines.

• Serve as an expert on complex SOX matters to support the Risk and Internal Controls team.

• Serve as the central point of contact for external auditors regarding SOX testing, alignment on control effectiveness, and reliance strategies.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Report findings and recommendations to auditees and Senior Management.

• Provide regular updates on SOX management testing, audit results, audit plan execution, and Management Action Plan status to the Management Board and the Audit and Compliance Committee.

• Plan, coordinate, and manage Audit and Compliance Committee (ACC) meetings, including preparation of all required materials.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead and develop a high‑performing internal audit team with a strong focus on business insight and value‑added analysis, serving as a talent pool for the organization.

• Foster a culture of ethical behavior, professionalism, and continuous improvement.

Special Projects

• Manage the relationship and contractual arrangements with the external auditor, including fee negotiation, scope coordination, and performance feedback.

• Lead complex and highly sensitive investigations at the request of the Compliance department, the Management Board, or the Audit and Compliance Committee.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field. CPA, CIA, CISA, or equivalent certification is a plus.

• 10–15 years of progressive experience in external audit or internal audit, including at least 5 years in a leadership role.

• Proven experience in a public company environment, ideally within a NASDAQ‑listed or dual‑listed (e.g., NASDAQ/DAX) company.

• Demonstrated experience managing or performing SOX 404 testing and compliance.

• Track record in risk‑based audit planning, execution, and reporting.

• Experience working with the Audit and Compliance Committee, executive leadership, and external auditors.

• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop a high‑performing audit team.

• Experience in managing ISO audits, investigations, or advisory projects is a plus.

FR : Dans le cadre de sa politique Diversité, Evotec étudie, à compétences égales, toutes les candidatures dont celles des personnes en situation de handicap.

ENG : In the frame of our Diversity policy, Evotec considers, with equal competences, all applications including people with disabilities.