Associate Director, IT SOX Compliance

Associate Director, IT SOX Compliance at Axsome Therapeutics, Inc.

Axsome Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company leading a new era in the treatment of central nervous system (CNS) conditions.

We deliver scientific breakthroughs by identifying critical gaps in care and developing differentiated products with a focus on novel mechanisms of action that enable meaningful advancements in patient outcomes.

Our industry‑leading neuroscience portfolio includes FDA‑approved treatments for major depressive disorder, excessive daytime sleepiness associated with narcolepsy and obstructive sleep apnea, and migraine, and multiple late‑stage development programs addressing a broad range of serious neurological and psychiatric conditions.

The Associate Director, IT SOX Compliance will ensure the integrity, security, and compliance of critical IT systems and data supporting our financial operations. This role will proactively assess, implement, and improve Axsome’s IT SOX compliance framework, monitor and address IT risks related to financial reporting, and partner with finance, IT, and internal/external audit teams. The position reports to the Senior Director, Finance.

Location:

Axsome’s HQ in New York City. On‑site requirement at least three days per week.

• Own and manage the design, implementation, and testing of IT General Controls in support of the SOX compliance framework.
• Develop, implement, improve, and maintain the IT SOX compliance framework across existing and new systems.
• Document risks of control design gaps or operational audit findings and identify areas for process improvement.
• Prepare narratives, flowcharts, and risk assessment matrices to document control processes, identify risks and mitigate controls.
• Manage compliance over System and Organization Controls audits in support of the annual audit plan.
• Collaborate with internal and external audit partners, leading walkthroughs and providing necessary documentation and evidence.
• Establish and manage IT SOX compliance policies, procedures, and standards.
• Prepare IT SOX compliance observations and communicate audit findings to management with improvement recommendations.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Accounting, Finance, or a related field. Relevant certifications in IT SOX compliance are a plus.
• 7+ years of experience in Process and Information Technology auditing, focused on internal control reviews around IT SOX and IT General Controls.
• Proficiency in assessing IT general controls, application controls, key reports, and SOC reports.
• Ability to work on site Monday, Tuesday & Thursday. Fully remote candidates will not be considered.

• Deep understanding of IT control frameworks for IT SOX compliance, with a strong emphasis on the COSO framework.
• Proficiency with Governance, Risk, and Compliance tools for managing risk and compliance programs.
• Excellent oral, written, and presentation skills; ability to articulate compliance concepts to technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Proven ability to lead cross‑functional initiatives and influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Problem‑solving mindset with a “lean‑forward” approach.
• Strong planning and organizational skills, attention to detail, execution, and follow‑through.

The anticipated salary range for this role is $150,000 – $180,000. The offer will be based on experience, qualifications, internal equity, and location. Axsome offers an annual bonus, significant equity, and a generous benefits package.

Axsome is committed to equal employment opportunity and provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with physical or mental disabilities. The company encourages diversity and solicits applications from all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, disability, veteran status, and other protected characteristics as defined by law. Axsome does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or third‑party agencies and will not pay placement fees for unsolicited candidates.