Principal Auditor, Internal Audit

JOB OBJECTIVE:

The mission of the Internal Audit Department is to enhance and protect organizational value by providing risk-based and objective assurance, advice, and insight. The department is responsible for planning and executing financial, compliance, and operational audits of the credit union's activities to evaluate internal controls and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, Board policies, and operational procedures. The Internal Audit Department conducts a comprehensive, risk-based internal audit plan to address and mitigate identified risks. Audit findings and recommendations are documented and communicated to the Supervisory Committee and Executive Management. Additionally, the department liaises with regulatory examiners and third-party auditors, and tracks progress toward remediating issues or audit findings identified in audits and regulatory examinations.

Under the direction of the AVP, Internal Audit & Enterprise Risk Management, the Principal Auditor is responsible for conducting and leading risk-based and compliance audits. The Principal Auditor also assists with the timely execution of branch audits as needed. Additionally, the incumbent may be assigned to coordinate with external auditors and assist with other projects.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

The incumbent may periodically manage project team members from the Internal Audit Department, as well as business auditees and third-party vendors involved in the execution of audit projects. Additionally, the incumbent will coordinate with co-source auditors supporting the audit department.

NATURE & SCOPE:

• Perform objective, risk-based audits and compliance audits within established timeframes, identifying issues and risks, and assisting in their resolution/mitigation.
• Perform the full range of operational and financial audits, including assessment of risks and operational controls.
• Execute the full range of audit project duties, including scoping, data collection, fieldwork, reporting results, and coordinating management responses.
• Supervise and execute branch audits, as well as risk-based audits that require cross-functional teams from Internal Audit, business leaders in areas such as Operations, Accounting, and IT, sometimes in coordination with external auditors.
• Communicate all findings verbally and in writing, and prepare draft reports on the areas audited.
• Conduct follow-up audits to ensure that corrective actions have been implemented and are effective.
• Recommend enhancements to overall company operations and help streamline business processes.
• Present audit reports to the Supervisory Committee and Executive Management at the request of the Chief Audit & Risk Officer and AVP, Internal Audit & Enterprise Risk Management.
• Stay current with industry trends, best practices, and regulatory changes to ensure the audit function remains effective and relevant.
• Maintain effective and open communication with stakeholders.
• Perform other tasks and duties as assigned.

EDUCATION & CERTIFICATION(s)

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent field experience required. Master's degree preferred, with a concentration in accounting, finance, or additional relevant industry experience.
• Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) or other designation from the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) preferred. CPA license preferred but not required.

SKILLS, & ABILITIES:

• Minimum of 8-10 years of related experience with a preference for experience within a financial institution or credit union in branch operations and lending, with at least 5 years in internal audit, risk management, compliance, or related fields.
• In-depth knowledge of regulatory requirements and industry best practices relevant to regulated business lines, especially within financial institutions and credit unions.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to assess complex information and identify key issues.

• Advanced proficiency in understanding policies and procedures, with the ability to develop and execute tests to ensure compliance with these policies and procedures.

• Superior presentation and communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to convey ideas clearly, succinctly, and diplomatically.
• Strong organizational and time management skills to handle multiple audit projects simultaneously, with the ability to adapt quickly to changes in the organization, industry, and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain positive relationships with stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Ability to maintain a broad perspective while paying attention to relevant details.
• Expertise in utilizing office tools, auditing software, audit methodologies, data analytics, and financial institution third-party business applications.
• Proficiency in project management, with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage deadlines, and deliver results in a timely manner.
• High ethical standards and integrity, with a commitment to maintaining confidentiality and objectivity in all audit activities.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able to tolerate extended periods of sitting and travel to branch locations.
• Must be adaptable to using technology and collaboration tools required for remote work options.
• To maintain knowledge, skills, and network contacts, the employee must be able to travel to occasional offsite training sessions, conferences, networking functions, and other meetings as required or to perform certain assigned audits.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:

• Work is primarily performed within an enclosed office setting, subject to standard background noise typical of an office environment.

• Remote work may be required

Note: Staff is expected to perform various tasks, projects and administrative duties as assigned. Management reserves the right to assign or change duties and tasks to this position at their discretion.

Salary Range (annually)

$82,174.9080 - $102,718.6350