principal, Internal Audit

Now Brewing – principal, Internal Audit! #tobeapartner From the beginning, Starbucks set out to be a different kind of company. One that not only celebrated coffee and the rich tradition, but that also brought a feeling of connection. We are known for developing extraordinary leaders who share this passion and are guided by their service to others. The principal, Internal Audit plays a key leadership role in strengthening the organization’s control environment, risk management practices, and governance processes. This role leads the execution of the internal audit plan, delivers high-quality assurance and advisory services, and partners with stakeholders to identify and mitigate risks while improving business performance. The principal operates as both a strategic leader and hands-on audit professional, influencing change and driving continuous improvement across the audit function. Summary of Key Responsibilities: Audit Execution & Delivery • Lead end-to-end execution of complex internal audit engagements (financial, operational, compliance, IT, Sarbanes Oxley (SOX), or integrated audits), including planning, fieldwork, and reporting. • Ensure audits are completed on time, within scope, and aligned to professional standards (e.g., IIA Standards). • Review and approve audit workpapers, findings, and final reports for quality, accuracy, and clarity. • Identify control gaps, root causes, and actionable recommendations to strengthen the control environment. Risk Assessment & Audit Planning • Support development and execution of a risk-based internal audit plan aligned to enterprise priorities. • Conduct risk assessments to identify key focus areas and emerging risks. • Adjust audit coverage in response to changes in business strategy, systems, or regulatory requirements. Leadership Capabilities • Set clear expectations, provide ongoing feedback, and ensure high-quality deliverables. • Foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. • Manage resource allocation across multiple concurrent audit engagements. Stakeholder Management & Advisory • Build strong relationships with senior management, business leaders, and cross-functional partners. • Serve as a trusted advisor by providing insights on risk, controls, and process improvements. • Communicate audit results and risk implications clearly and persuasively. • Partner with external auditors and regulators as needed. Continuous Improvement & Transformation • Drive improvements in audit methodology, tools, and processes. • Leverage data analytics, automation, and technology to enhance audit effectiveness and efficiency. • Identify opportunities for continuous monitoring and more proactive, insight-driven auditing. Governance & Reporting • Ensure audit activities align with internal policies, standards, and regulatory requirements. • Monitor management action plans and validate remediation of audit findings. • Support Audit Committee reporting, as applicable. Summary of Experience: Required • 8+ years of progressive experience in internal audit, external audit, risk management, or a related discipline. • Experience leading complex audits and managing multiple priorities. • Strong knowledge of SOX/internal controls, risk assessment, and audit methodologies. Preferred • Experience in a complex, global, or publicly traded organization. • Experience with data analytics, automation, and continuous auditing techniques. • Exposure to SOX compliance, IT audit, or operational audits. Education and Certification: • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, Information Systems, or a related field. • Professional certification(s): CIA, CPA, CISA, CFE or equivalent. Core and Leadership Competencies: • Strategic thinking with strong execution capability • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills • Excellent communication and stakeholder influence • Ability to manage multiple priorities and drive results • High degree of...