Internal Auditor - Compliance

The Internal Auditor - Compliance at Santander Holdings USA Inc is responsible for providing independent assurance to senior management and the Board about the effectiveness of internal controls, risk management, and governance processes. This role entails evaluating compliance with laws, assessing financial and operational information integrity, and conducting audits to ensure the organization adheres to regulations while safeguarding its reputation.

To qualify for the Internal Auditor - Compliance role at Santander Holdings USA Inc, you need a Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field. No prior audit experience is required, but analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and verbal and written communication skills are essential. Organizational skills and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment are also valuable.

Santander Holdings USA Inc emphasizes ongoing professional development for Internal Auditors by offering various training programs and resources. This commitment helps employees enhance their skills and stay updated with industry best practices, which ultimately benefits both their career growth and the effectiveness of the audit function within the organization.

Success as an Internal Auditor - Compliance at Santander Holdings requires strong analytical and problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and solid organizational capabilities. Additionally, excellent verbal and written communication skills are paramount, as the role frequently involves presenting findings to senior management and collaborating with various stakeholders to ensure compliance and effective risk management.

The work environment for an Internal Auditor - Compliance at Santander Holdings USA Inc is generally office-based in Dallas, TX. It requires minimal physical effort, with responsibilities involving sitting, standing, and walking. While occasional lifting of equipment may be necessary, the role primarily focuses on conducting audits and assessments within a structured and professional atmosphere.

When prioritizing tasks as an Internal Auditor - Compliance, I assess the risk level associated with each audit and consider deadlines. I focus on high-risk areas and ensure compliance regulations are reviewed first. Effective time management and clear communication with stakeholders also help me manage my workload efficiently.

My approach to evaluating internal controls involves a thorough understanding of the business processes followed by a systematic assessment against regulatory standards and best practices. I document the effectiveness of controls, identify areas of weakness, and provide recommendations for improvement based on my findings.

I utilize a variety of tools and methodologies during audits, including data analytics software for analyzing financial data, risk assessment frameworks to evaluate compliance, and audit management tools for documenting findings and tracking progress on corrective actions.

In one of my previous roles, I identified a compliance issue related to a vendor's contract management process. My audit revealed that certain regulatory requirements were not being met, which could have led to significant financial penalties. I worked with the management team to implement corrective measures quickly, ensuring compliance going forward.

I stay updated on regulatory changes by subscribing to industry newsletters, attending relevant training sessions, and participating in professional organizations. Additionally, I maintain a network of peers to share insights and best practices in compliance and audit methodologies.

My process for documenting audit findings includes organizing notes systematically, putting them into a clear framework that outlines audit objectives, methodology, findings, and recommendations. I ensure that all documentation complies with relevant audit standards and is easily accessible for future reviews and follow-ups.

To ensure my audits uphold the organization's values, I focus on aligning my audit objectives with the company's mission and ethical standards. I engage with stakeholders throughout the process to demonstrate the importance of ethical practices and compliance, which is essential for maintaining the company’s reputation.

When handling disagreements with management on audit findings, I prioritize open communication and collaboration. I present my findings with supporting evidence and listen to their perspectives. Finding common ground and proposing solutions helps us reach a resolution that respects both the audit's integrity and management's operational realities.

Teamwork plays a crucial role in the Internal Audit function. Collaboration allows auditors to share insights, enhance efficiency, and leverage diverse skill sets. Engaging with various departments fosters a comprehensive understanding of risks and controls, ultimately leading to more effective audits and stronger compliance frameworks.

For ongoing professional development in auditing, I actively seek professional certifications, attend relevant workshops, and participate in online courses to expand my knowledge of emerging trends and technologies in the field. I also engage in peer discussions and networking events to exchange ideas and insights.