Chief Auditor

The University of Arizona invites applications for the position of Chief Auditor. The University seeks a steadfast and proven leader and an experienced auditor who will partner with the Arizona Board of Regents, university senior leadership, and colleagues across the entire campus to strengthen its comprehensive, impactful audit approach for the University.

The Chief Auditor will be tasked to provide strategic, operational, and collaborative leadership for its internal audit function.

Remember to check your CV before applying Also, ensure you read through all the requirements related to this role.

The Chief Auditor will lead the University of Arizona internal audit function and ensure the institution operates efficiently, ethically, and in compliance with regulatory requirements, standards and applicable laws that govern the Arizona Board of Regents and public higher education institutions.

Reporting to the Senior Vice President, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer, the Chief Auditor designs, develops, and implements auditing policy and procedures, performing audits of financial and operational systems, and ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations.

This role works closely with University leadership to assess risk management, control processes, and governance systems.

In addition to its operational reporting to the SVP COO / CFO, the position has a direct reporting line to both the university president and the chair of the Arizona Board of Regents Audit & Risk Committee.

This position is eligible for a relocation package along with an opportunity for a short-term temporary remote work arrangement to allow for a smooth transition.

Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays;

UA / ASU / NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!

Duties & Responsibilities :

• Develop and execute the University’s internal audit strategy, ensuring alignment with institutional goals and objectives.
• Provide independent, objective assurance and consulting services designed to add value and improve the university’s operations.
• Engage with executive leadership, the Internal Audit Review Board, and the Arizona Board of Regents to develop and execute institutional risk assessment and audits in accordance with University Policy and direction.
• Lead and manage the internal audit team, including recruitment, training, and professional development.
• Foster an ethical culture, maintaining high standards of integrity and professionalism.
• Audit Planning & Execution :
• Oversee the preparation and execution of comprehensive risk-based audit plans.
• Evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of internal controls, operational processes, financial reporting, and compliance systems.
• Identify areas of potential risk, fraud, or non-compliance and make recommendations for corrective actions.
• Review and assess the accuracy and integrity of financial statements and reports.
• Risk Management & Compliance :
• Monitor and evaluate the university’s risk management framework, recommending improvements where necessary.
• Ensure that the university adheres to state, federal, and institutional regulations, policies, and best practices.
• Conduct internal investigations to assess validity of suspected risks.
• Coordinate and comply with external audit reviews.
• Stay updated on regulatory changes affecting higher education institutions, such as those related to financial aid, research funding, and student services.
• Communication & Reporting :
• Present audit findings, recommendations, and updates to the university’s executive leadership, the Arizona Board of Regents, and the Audit & Risk Committee.
• Collaborate with university departments to improve business practices, increase operational efficiencies, and ensure compliance.
• Prepare and present detailed reports, including audit opinions and risk assessments, to stakeholders.
• Consultation & Advisory :
• Provide expertise advisory consultative services to university departments on process improvements, policy formulation, and risk mitigation.
• Serve as a strategic advisor to the President and other key stakeholders on audit, risk, and governance matters.
• May participate in or engage with external boards, committees or institutions to foster strong relationships with peer universities to stay abreast of best practices for the industry of internal audit.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities :

• In-depth knowledge of audit principles, practices, and procedures in a university or public sector setting.
• Effective leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and attention to detail.
• Ability to assess risk and implement audit procedures to improve operational and financial systems.
• Familiarity with state and federal regulations affecting public universities.
• Proficiency with audit software and data analytics tools.

Minimum Qualifications :

• Education : Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Certifications : Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certified Public Accountant (CPA), or Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) or equivalent professional certification.
• Experience : Minimum of 7 years of progressive auditing experience, including leadership roles. Any equivalent combination of education, experience, certification, and training may be considered.

Type of criminal background check required : Fingerprint criminal background check (security sensitive due to job duties).

Documents Needed to Apply : Resume and Cover Letter.

Special Instructions to Applicant : Diversity Statement.

At the University of Arizona, we value our inclusive climate because we know that diversity in experiences and perspectives is vital to advancing innovation, critical thinking, solving complex problems, and creating an inclusive academic community.

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