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Candace Cauley-Okure

@candacecauley-okure

Internal audit leader at STERLING INFRASTRUCTURE, INC. who built its audit function and launched enterprise risk assessments.

United States

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At STERLING INFRASTRUCTURE, INC., I built the internal audit and SOX compliance function from the ground up, transitioning it from a fully co-sourced model to an internally managed capability. I designed its strategy and methodology and directed risk-based audit plans aligned to IIA Standards.

As Director, SOX Compliance, I led SOX 404/302 governance across approximately 11 entities and locations, integrating acquired businesses into the control framework. I also implemented the company’s anti-fraud risk assessment and partnered with Legal on investigation readiness.

I drove audit transformation using Workiva and automated monitoring controls, and delivered reports to the Audit Committee, CFO, and Board. I managed a $1M+ annual budget and led, coached, and developed compliance and IT audit professionals.

Earlier, I supported SEC reporting and financial-reporting processes at STERLING INFRASTRUCTURE, INC., including implementation of ASC 842 and ASC 606. At ERNST & YOUNG, LLP, I executed external-audit and assurance engagements for publicly traded clients; I hold an MAcc and an MBA in Finance and am preparing for the CISA exam.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Director, SOX Compliance

Sterling Infrastructure, Inc.

Jan 2022 - Jan 2026 (4 years)

Led the company's SOX compliance function and oversaw enterprise execution of control, policy, and governance initiatives. Directed risk-based audit plans aligned to IIA Standards and reported to the Audit Committee and CFO.

SOX 302 404 COSO ICFR Risk Assessment Audit Planning Workiva ITGC M&A Integration Fraud and Risk Team Leadership Budget Management

Manager, SOX Compliance

Sterling Infrastructure, Inc.

Jan 2018 - Dec 2021 (3 years 11 months)

Promoted to leadership of the SOX program and transitioned the function into a more effective, internally driven model. Built and led the enterprise internal audit and SOX compliance function from the ground up.

SOX Compliance Internal Audit IT Audit ITGC Risk Assessment Workiva Enterprise Risk Assessment Team Leadership

Senior Financial Reporting Analyst

Sterling Infrastructure, Inc.

Jan 2016 - Dec 2018 (2 years 11 months)

Supported public-company financial reporting, SEC compliance, and quarterly reporting processes in a fast-paced, multi-entity environment. Co-authored technical accounting memoranda and managed implementation of ASC842 and ASC606.

SEC Reporting US GAAP ASC 842 ASC 606 Workiva Financial Reporting

Process and Controls Analyst

LGI Homes, Inc.

Jan 2014 - Dec 2016 (2 years 11 months)

Designed and monitored internal controls and processes supporting financial operations in a high-growth homebuilding environment. Documented significant financial processes via walkthroughs and flowcharts.

Internal Controls Process documentation Flowcharting Supplier Audits

Audit & Assurance Services Senior Associate

Ernst & Young, LLP

Jan 2011 - Dec 2014 (3 years 11 months)

Executed external-audit and assurance engagements for publicly traded clients across construction, infrastructure, and technology sectors. Evaluated entity-level, business-process, and IT general controls.

External Audits Assurance US GAAP IT General Controls Walkthroughs Control Testing

Internal Audit and Regulatory Compliance Services Intern

KPMG

Jun 2008 - Aug 2008 (2 months)

Supported internal audit and regulatory compliance engagements. Completed Columbia's Executive Value Investing Seminar and summer MBA courses at NYU Stern as a Michael F. Price Scholar.

Internal Audit Regulatory Compliance