Manager, Risk Independence

Role overview

KPMG Canada is looking for a Manager, Risk Independence to support its Independence Group in upholding compliance with professional, regulatory, and global as well as local independence requirements. This position works closely with partners and staff across service lines to interpret and apply standards tied to auditor independence, including SEC, PCAOB, CPA Code of Professional Conduct, and IESBA Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants.

What you'll be responsible for

• Applying specialized knowledge of Canadian, SEC, PCAOB, and IESBA independence standards, together with KPMG Global and local policies, to assist client engagement teams.
• Supporting the design and rollout of a review-and-approval process used to assess whether services may be provided to audit clients.
• Using research, judgment, and analytical thinking to assess the firm’s independence and relationship matters for current and prospective audit clients.
• Advising partners and teams across Canada on auditor independence questions connected to firm independence issues.
• Guiding engagement teams through acceptance procedures and other required independence clearance steps.
• Helping improve independence policies, workflows, tools, and internal risk systems so they remain aligned with KPMG requirements and industry best practices.
• Supporting a culture of audit quality, risk awareness, and strong independence practices throughout the firm.
• Preparing technical notices, guidance documents, training content, and other materials for firm-wide distribution.
• Overseeing team members handling independence requests and other assigned work.
• Managing both one-off and ongoing projects while identifying opportunities to streamline and improve processes.

What the role requires

• At least 5 years of client service experience in independence, audit, or risk management within a professional services firm or comparable setting.
• A CPA designation or another relevant risk-related qualification.
• Strong attention to detail, self-direction, diligence, and the ability to respond quickly and professionally.
• Well-developed research, analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities, including the capacity to apply frameworks to unfamiliar situations.
• Proven initiative and solid organizational skills.
• Experience handling complex questions, researching issues, analyzing information, spotting risks, reaching conclusions, and documenting the basis for those conclusions.
• Strong time management and prioritization skills, with the ability to work alone or effectively with others.
• Excellent business writing and communication skills, with careful attention to detail and the ability to produce high-quality outputs.
• Comfort working in a deadline-focused environment and interacting with senior leaders in demanding situations.
• Demonstrated leadership and relationship-building ability, including coaching, trust-building, and supporting team performance.
• Ability to manage confidential and sensitive information appropriately.
• Fluency in written and spoken English is required.

Additional information

The role may occasionally require work beyond standard daily or weekly hours when business demands require it. At the same time, the organization emphasizes flexibility so employees can also make time for personal commitments.

Compensation

The anticipated base salary for this position is CAD 74,000 to CAD 111,000 annually. Bonus eligibility may also apply. Final pay will depend on the candidate’s location, skills, competencies, and overall qualifications. A comprehensive total rewards package is also offered.

Values and inclusion

KPMG in Canada emphasizes integrity, excellence, courage, teamwork, and doing what matters. The organization is an equal opportunity employer committed to a respectful, inclusive, and barrier-free workplace where people are encouraged to bring their full selves to work.

Recruitment adjustments and accommodations

Applicants may request adjustments or accommodations at any stage of the hiring process. Examples include extra preparation time, micro breaks during interviews, accessible communication supports, or technology aids. Requests can be made through KPMG’s Employee Relations Service team at 1-888-466-4778.

AI in hiring

The hiring process may use AI tools to organize applications or highlight relevant experience, but final hiring decisions are made by human recruiters and hiring managers. AI systems used in recruitment are reviewed through risk assessments covering security and privacy requirements under KPMG’s Trusted AI framework.