Financial Controls Lead

Real is a fast-growing national real estate brokerage powered by technology. Real is currently operating in all U.S. states, Canada, and the District of Columbia. Founded in 2014, Real is a trailblazer in the Residential Real Estate industry, as we lead the disruption with our cutting-edge technology platform. We are on a mission to revolutionize the home-buying and selling process, making agents' lives better while creating lucrative financial opportunities for them.

For more information, visit https://www.onereal.com/

Location: Remote - US. Candidates MUST be based in the US to be considered.

Job Summary:

We are seeking a Financial Controls Lead to join our finance team at Real. The Financial Controls Lead plays a key role in ensuring the effectiveness and compliance of internal financial compliance controls and supporting the company’s adherence to SOX regulations. This position serves as a critical liaison between the Finance and Internal Audit teams, coordinating audit processes, addressing control-related issues, and driving the design and implementation of internal controls over financial reporting. The role requires a deep understanding of SOX compliance, internal controls, and financial reporting standards, along with strong communication skills to manage cross-functional relationships and provide support for risk management initiatives.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Internal Audit Coordination:

  • Serve as the primary point of contact between the Finance and Internal Audit teams during SOX testing, operational audits, and other reviews.

  • Facilitate the collection, organization, and preparation of documentation and evidence required for audits.

  • Address audit findings and work with process owners to design and implement corrective action plans.

  • Ensure timely and accurate responses to audit inquiries and provide necessary documentation to support audit conclusions.

• Internal Controls Management:

  • Partner with process owners to design, document, and maintain effective internal controls over financial reporting (ICFR).

  • Evaluate the design and operational effectiveness of internal controls, recommending improvements where necessary to enhance control effectiveness.

  • Collaborate with process owners to implement new controls to mitigate risks and ensure compliance with corporate policies and regulatory requirements.

  • Ensure timely updates to control narratives and related documentation, collaborating with process owners to confirm controls have passed testing during month-end closings.

• SOX Compliance Support: 

  • Coordinate with Internal Audit to ensure timely and accurate completion of SOX testing and reporting.

  • Maintain comprehensive records of SOX controls, test results, and related documentation for internal and external audit reviews.

  • Educate and update Finance teams on SOX compliance requirements and assist with maintaining compliance throughout the year.

  • Support the ongoing monitoring of SOX controls, ensuring continuous compliance with regulations.

• Risk Management and Reporting: 

  • Assist in conducting risk assessments and evaluating the effectiveness of controls in collaboration with Finance and IA teams.

  • Prepare regular reports for Finance leadership that provide updates on audit status, control effectiveness, and risk management efforts.

  • Ensure that control deficiencies are escalated, addressed, and resolved in a timely manner.

• Collaboration and Training: 

  • Conduct training sessions for Finance and other relevant stakeholders to enhance awareness and understanding of internal controls and audit processes.

  • Build strong relationships with Internal Audit and other business partners to foster collaborative problem-solving and continuous process improvements.

  • Serve as an advisor to Finance leadership on matters related to internal controls, risk management, and audit readiness.

• Intercompany Allocations:

  • Perform intercompany allocation processes, ensuring accurate and timely allocation of costs and revenues across entities.

  • Collaborate with relevant stakeholders to implement efficient intercompany processes and maintain proper documentation.

• Month-End Close Support:

  • Assist with month-end close activities, including reconciliation of intercompany accounts and ensuring compliance with internal controls.

Required Skills/Abilities: 

• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively bridge Finance and Internal Audit teams.

• Strong analytical and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

• Proven ability to collaborate in a cross-functional environment and work with various stakeholders at all levels.

• Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy and compliance.

• Ability to identify, assess, and mitigate control risks.

• Experience with training and developing teams on internal controls and audit readiness.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field is required.

• CPA, CIA, or similar certifications preferred.

• 5+ years of experience in internal audit, internal controls, SOX compliance, or a related field.

• Public accounting experience is required.

• Strong understanding of COSO, SOX, and audit standards.

• Familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and financial reporting tools

Must Have: Ability to truly encompass our Company Core Values

• Work Hard, Be Kind

• Tech x Humanity

• “We” are bigger than “me”

Physical Requirements: 

• Sit for long periods of time

• Lift a minimum of 20 pounds

Real Broker is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status.