AVP, Internal Audit & Enterprise Risk Management

Western National Group & Umialik Insurance • Edina, MN

2h • $185,000 - $225,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

Western National is seeking an Assistant Vice President of Internal Audit and Risk Management to join our team! The individual in this role will have the opportunity to lead the vision, design, and execution of a growing Internal Audit function while shaping an enterprise-wide risk management framework that influences strategic decisions across Western National. They will collaborate closely with executive leaders to strengthen internal controls, reduce organizational risk, and drive operational improvements. This role also offers the chance to present high-impact insights to leadership and the Audit Committee, contribute to long-term organizational success, and expand the visibility and influence of the Internal Audit function.

Requirements

• Ten or more years of progressive experience in internal audit, risk management, or public accounting, including at least three years in a leadership role.
• Experience building or leading corporate audit programs.
• Proven ability to build strong relationships and partner effectively with department leaders.
• Strong understanding of internal control frameworks (Model Audit Rule and / or Sarbanes-Oxley).
• Ability to influence executive and board-level stakeholders.
• Excellent analytical, leadership, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to independently prioritize and manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Bachelor’s degree in finance or accounting; experience in lieu of degree acceptable.
• Proficient use of various core systems, office and computer equipment, and software packages.

Nice To Haves

• Audit experience in the insurance industry.
• Professional designations, such as MBA, CPA, CMA, or CIA.
• A strategic yet hands-on leadership approach.
• Strong problem-solving capabilities and a drive for continuous improvement.
• A customer-focused mindset, demonstrating responsiveness, empathy, ownership, and clear communication.

Responsibilities

• Partners with the CFO to communicate and champion the value of the Internal Audit function.
• Builds strong relationships with leaders across the organization to assess processes, controls, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Stays informed on industry risks and best practices, including cyber controls, operational efficiency, and artificial intelligence; adapts and operationalizes strategies as appropriate.
• Promotes, grows, and continuously improves the Internal Audit department.
• Creates and executes a comprehensive Internal Audit program addressing key operational controls and organizational risks.
• Develops and implements an annual internal audit plan aligned with strategic priorities.
• Conducts ongoing assessments of internal controls, documentation quality, and risk mitigation effectiveness.
• Presents audit findings and materials to Western National leadership and the Audit Committee.
• Leads development and execution of the Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) framework.
• Collaborates with executive and business unit leaders to embed risk management practices into strategic planning and day-to-day operations.
• Manages Model Audit Rule certification and Own Risk Solvency Assessment (ORSA) reporting.
• Facilitates regulatory exams and annual financial audits conducted by external accountants.
• Identifies and solves complex, unique problems with strong critical-thinking skills.
• Performs special projects and other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical insurance plan options and other standard employee benefits, including dental insurance, vision benefits, life insurance, disability insurance, and more!
• Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• 401(k) Plan (participants are eligible for 100% matching on the first 6% of their contributions)
• Wellbeing Program, including onsite fitness studio
• Paid Time Off – including holiday, vacation, and volunteer
• 100% company-paid tuition reimbursement for approved job-relevant coursework and access to The Institutes (Risk and insurance education)
• Paid parental leave
• Bonus potential
• Western National believes in supporting balance between work and life by providing a flexible work environment, which includes a variety of hybrid and remote work arrangements designed to balance individual, job, department, and company needs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees