BASIC PURPOSE OF THE JOB
Reporting to the Internal Audit Manager, the Internal Audit Specialist supports the execution of the Group's risk-based audit plan across corporate functions, international subsidiaries, retail operations, and manufacturing sites, ensuring full compliance with SOX requirements, SEC regulations, and Group governance standards.
The role contributes to safeguarding the integrity of the internal control environment by assessing the effectiveness of Internal Control over Financial Reporting (ICFR), risk management processes, and operational efficiency within a dynamic, international Luxury Fashion organization.
The position requires the application of risk and control principles across diverse business scenarios, identifying potential exposures, control gaps, and improvement opportunities, and ensuring that findings are addressed in a timely and effective manner.
Main Responsibilities
* Support the development and execution of the annual risk-based audit plan across corporate, retail, and industrial operations.
* Perform operational, financial, compliance, and retail audits (including boutiques and regional offices).
* Execute SOX testing activities, including walkthroughs, control design assessments, and operating effectiveness testing
* Identify process inefficiencies, fraud risks, and control gaps, proposing practical and value-added recommendations.
* Draft clear and impactful audit reports tailored to senior management.
* Monitor the timely implementation of corrective action plans.
* Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders (Finance, Retail, Operations, Logistics, IT, HR).
* Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and promote a strong internal control culture across the Group
BACKGROUND & PRINCIPAL SKILLS REQUIRED
* Good understanding of accounting principles and financial statements, risk and control concepts.
* Working knowledge of professional IIA performance standards (certified CIA is a plus)
* Experience with SOX compliance and internal control testing.
* Knowledge of Italian Legislative Decree 231⁄2001
* Familiarity with ERP systems (SAP or equivalent) and Microsoft Office.
* Experience in retail, luxury, or consumer goods sectors is a strong plus.
* Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
* High level of integrity and ethical standards
* Strong stakeholder management skills, including exposure to senior leadership
* Structured mindset with strong documentation discipline
* 2-3 years of experience in Internal Audit or Big 4 audit, preferably within publicly listed companies (luxury/fashion business is a plus)
* Master's Degree in Accountings, Finance, Business Administration or Law
* Fluency in English
* Willingness to travel internationally (up to 30-40%)