VP - Internal Audit

BANK INDEPENDENT•Muscle Shoals, AL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The VP – Internal Audit provides independent, objective assurance and advisory services designed to strengthen the Bank’s risk management, internal controls, governance, and operational effectiveness. This role exists to protect the Bank, its customers, and its stakeholders by ensuring that risks are appropriately identified, monitored, and managed, and that internal controls operate effectively in a safe and sound manner. The VP – Internal Audit serves as a trusted advisor to executive leadership and the Board, while maintaining independence, fostering accountability, and promoting a culture of integrity, transparency, and continuous improvement.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required
10+ years of audit, accounting, or risk experience in financial services.
Strong knowledge of banking regulations and internal controls.
Ability to remain stationary for extended periods.
Ability to operate standard office equipment.
Ability to communicate effectively with candidates, team members, and leadership.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred
CPA, CIA, or equivalent certification preferred
Occasional travel to sales offices or operational locations may be required.

Responsibilities

Leads Internal Audit in accordance with IIA standards and regulatory expectations.
Maintains independence and objectivity with functional reporting to the Audit Committee.
Develops and executes a risk-based audit plan across all areas of the Bank.
Performs enterprise risk assessments to identify audit priorities.
Aligns audit plan with strategic and regulatory risk factors.
Adjusts plans for emerging risks.
Oversees audits ensuring quality testing and documentation.
Evaluates effectiveness of internal controls and governance.
Reports findings with clear risk implications and recommendations.
Tracks audit findings and corrective actions.
Validates remediation effectiveness.
Escalates unresolved issues appropriately.
Coordinates with regulators and external auditors.
Ensures audit practices meet regulatory expectations.
Validates compliance with laws and policies.
Serves as liaison to Audit Committee.
Provides reporting on audit results and risk exposures.
Advises on governance and emerging risks.
Develops and leads audit team.
Ensures training and professional development.
Promotes accountability and continuous improvement.
Leads with integrity, objectivity, and courage.
Builds trust through transparency and consistency.
Communicates findings with clarity and respect.
Maintains independence while collaborating effectively.
Demonstrates humility and continuous improvement.
Holds self and others accountable for control effectiveness.