Interim UK SOX Implementation Lead

Interim UK SOX Implementation Lead (Internal Controls) | £600-£700 Per Day | London (Hybrid) | 6-9 Month Contract | ACCA/ACA/ICAEW

The Opportunity

We're partnering with a fast-paced, forward-thinking organisation preparing for UK SOX readiness and wider internal controls enhancement.

The client is looking for an experienced Interim UK SOX / Internal Controls Lead to drive improvements in internal control design, governance, and documentation across key financial and operational processes.

This is a hands-on role suited to a senior finance or audit professional with strong SOX and internal controls experience, ideally from a Top 10 audit background with significant post-practice industry experience. The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping the organisation's control framework and readiness for evolving UK Corporate Reform expectations.

Key Responsibilities

* Lead the design, enhancement, and implementation of internal control frameworks in preparation for UK SOX compliance.
* Conduct detailed control reviews across key financial and operational processes, identifying gaps and implementing effective remediation plans.
* Partner with senior finance leadership, audit, and IT teams to ensure a consistent, practical, and risk-based approach to control improvements.
* Develop clear process documentation, control matrices, and testing plans aligned with SOX and UK Corporate Reform (Provision 29) requirements.
* Provide technical insight and best practice guidance on control design and effectiveness.
* Lead control walkthroughs and testing, ensuring high-quality evidence and clear reporting to internal and external stakeholders.
* Support change management by embedding a culture of control awareness and accountability across the business.
* Where relevant, oversee or mentor internal audit or project resources contributing to the UK SOX readiness programme.

Required Key Skills & Experience

* Fully qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / ICAEW) with strong technical grounding.
* Significant experience in SOX and internal controls frameworks, ideally gained within a listed or large multinational environment.
* Top 10 audit firm background strongly preferred - with exposure to risk, controls, and assurance engagements.
* Proven experience designing and implementing internal control frameworks (financial, operational, or IT) in line with SOX or UK Corporate Reform requirements.
* Strong stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to influence senior leadership and cross-functional teams.

Interim UK SOX Implementation Lead (Internal Controls) | £600-£700 Per Day | London (Hybrid) | 6-9 Month Contract | ACCA/ACA/ICAEW