SOX Manager

Company: Fortune 500Industry: InsuranceLocation: Chicago, IL (Hybrid)Title: SOX ManagerCompensation: up to $125KPosition OverviewA fortune 500 insurance organization is seeking an experienced SOX Manager to oversee its Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance activities and strengthen internal controls over financial reporting (ICFR). This individual will play a central role in maintaining an effective control framework across multiple insurance operations, with particular attention to financial reporting accuracy, regulatory compliance, risk mitigation, and process improvement.The ideal candidate brings a strong combination of SOX leadership, insurance industry knowledge, and experience collaborating with accounting, finance, IT, and audit teams.Key ResponsibilitiesSOX Compliance & Risk ManagementManage the annual SOX 404 compliance cycle, including risk assessments, scoping, quarterly certifications, control evaluations, and remediation.Identify financial reporting risks and establish appropriate controls across significant accounts and business processes.Coordinate SOX activities with internal and external auditors, finance leadership, and business stakeholders.Financial & Insurance ControlsEvaluate and improve financial controls involving insurance reserves, premium revenue, claims, reinsurance, and investment accounting.Support compliance with US GAAP, statutory accounting principles (SAP), and applicable insurance regulations.Review financial reporting procedures and recommend enhancements to improve control reliability and operational efficiency.Technology & Process ImprovementPartner with IT teams to evaluate IT general controls (ITGCs), automated processes, system access, and data integrity.Identify opportunities to simplify compliance activities through automation, standardized processes, and governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) tools.Support control readiness during technology implementations, acquisitions, and other organizational changes.Cross-Functional LeadershipCollaborate with Accounting, Finance, IT, Actuarial, Investments, Reinsurance, and Internal Audit teams.Prepare updates for senior management concerning SOX progress, control effectiveness, and outstanding risks.Help align internal controls with NAIC Model Audit Rule (MAR), SEC, and PCAOB expectations.Required Qualifications8+ years of progressive experience in SOX compliance, internal auditing, public accounting, or financial controls.Minimum 3 years of insurance industry experience, preferably within property & casualty, life insurance, or reinsurance.Thorough understanding of SOX 404, COSO principles, and internal controls over financial reporting.Working knowledge of US GAAP and insurance statutory accounting requirements.Experience evaluating financial and IT controls, identifying deficiencies, and coordinating remediation.