Overview
Position Overview
The Director of Internal Audit leads the internal audit function for the organization and manages a team responsible for conducting a wide range of assurance, consulting, and advisory services. This role reports functionally to the Audit Committee and administratively to senior leadership. The Director plays a key role in driving positive change and promoting accountability by providing critical insights into the organization’s governance, risk management, and internal control processes.
This position is responsible for developing and executing the annual risk-based audit plan, ensuring compliance with professional auditing standards, and overseeing both internal and external assessments. The Director also manages and develops staff, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the internal audit team to conduct assurance and consulting engagements, ensuring that all work is completed accurately, on time, and in accordance with professional auditing standards.
- Develop and manage the annual risk-based audit plan, identifying areas for evaluation to enhance risk management, control, and governance processes.
- Serve as an advisor to various committees and senior leadership, contributing to strategic discussions and decisions.
- Manage audit staff, including supervising, coaching, and providing performance feedback. Oversee the development and execution of staff succession and development plans.
- Communicate audit findings and recommendations to executive management and the Audit Committee, ensuring that appropriate corrective actions are taken.
- Develop and oversee the departmental budget, ensuring effective allocation of resources.
- Investigate allegations of fraud or misappropriation, determining the extent of any wrongdoing and making recommendations for appropriate actions, including potential prosecution.
- Establish and maintain a comprehensive quality assurance and improvement program that aligns with industry standards and ensures compliance during external assessments.
- Oversee outsourced and co-sourced audit activities as necessary.
- Participate in professional organizations and ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on industry best practices.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, Information Systems, Business Administration, Public Administration, or related field.
- At least eight years of progressively responsible experience in audit, including managing and supervising audit staff.
- Comprehensive knowledge of audit standards (e.g., Yellow Book, Red Book), risk management, internal controls, and governance processes.
- Demonstrated experience with peer review or quality assurance activities.
- Strong leadership skills, with the ability to motivate and develop staff while managing competing priorities.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc.).
- Knowledge of governmental accounting principles and regulations, particularly those applicable to federally funded organizations.
Preferred Qualifications
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), or Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA).
- Experience with electronic audit workpaper software and data analysis tools.
- Experience with construction auditing or other large capital projects is a plus.
Competencies
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to maintain objectivity and confidentiality while adhering to high ethical standards.
- Familiarity with federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and guidelines related to the fiscal management of government-funded entities.
- Ability to develop and maintain positive working relationships across all levels of the organization.
- Commitment to professional development and continuous improvement.