Chief Audit Executive

North Dakota University System•Bismarck, ND

29d•$130,000

About The Position

The Chief Audit Executive (CAE) serves as the senior leader responsible for leading the internal audit functions of the North Dakota University System (NDUS). Reporting functionally to the State Board of Higher Education (SBHE)/Audit Committee and administratively to the Commissioner, the CAE provides independent, objective assurance and advisory services designed to add value and improve operations of the NDUS and its institutions. This role ensures compliance with accounting and finance standards, strengthens governance, and oversees enterprise risk management (ERM) to safeguard institutional assets and reputation.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field from an accredited college or university
At least five years of audit experience in a complex organization of which three years must be at a senior level or higher
Certified Public Account (CPA)
Proven ability to lead teams, and manage complex projects
Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and collegially with diverse constituent groups such as senior leadership, CEO's and governing boards.
Demonstrated ability to adhere to appropriate standards of conduct and ethics
Demonstrated knowledge in auditing standards, compliance standards, enterprise risk management, and audit best practices
Must be able to travel in-state, on occasion.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree
Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) or similar certification/designation
Experience in a comparable position at a major university, University System Office, state government or large corporate environment
Proficiency in audit management software, data analytics tools, or financial reporting systems.
Experience advising boards of trustees or audit committees on governance, risk, and compliance.

Responsibilities

Develop the annual audit plan for review and approval by the SBHE Audit Committee.
Monitor and report quarterly progress on audit plan to the SBHE Audit Committee.
Supervise internal audit and enterprise risk management staff, providing guidance, mentorship, and performance oversight, while directing project work and activities to ensure audits and risk initiatives are executed effectively and aligned with institutional priorities. Coordinate and report on annual system-wide Enterprise Risk Management risk assessment cycle.
Develop or update audit programs for financial, operational, compliance and IT audit fieldwork.
Facilitate and provide oversight for financial, operational, compliance and IT audits for the ND University System, consistent with audit plan, and in conformance with the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing, to include objective and practical recommendations for management action, as appropriate.
Review audit and advisory reports and institutional responses Proactively monitor and assess emerging risks or issues, coordinating with campuses to deliver rapid, effective responses that support institutional priorities.
Review action plans developed by the system office and the eleven institutions.
Communicate the results of audit projects via written reports and oral presentations to management and SBHE Audit Committee, and others.
Manage and conduct periodic follow-up reviews to assess and report on progress or completion of management's corrective actions in response to audit observations and recommendations.
Work with the NDUS Compliance Officer and the Enterprise Risk Manager to identify improvements to policy and procedure.
Manage and conduct investigations of suspected irregular conduct in conjunction with other University System resources as appropriate.
Foster effective communication and collaboration with the SBHE Audit Committee, SBHE Executive Committee, and other SBHE committees, as well as with institutions, the State Auditor's Office, and relevant external agencies. Act as coordinator and resource for the eleven institutions with regard to internal control or other audit related questions or issues.
Ensure compliance with IIA Standards and ethical guidelines.
Maintain quality assurance and improvement program.
Ensure an external assessment of internal audits quality assurance programs, at least once every five years.
Maintain professional competencies related to the internal audit profession, internal control issues and other relevant higher education topics through appropriate continuing professional education opportunities.
Build relationships with stakeholders and serve as a resource