Chief Audit Officer

The Chief Audit Officer (CAO) provides independent, objective assurance and advisory services designed to add value and improve the University's operations. The position assists the Board of Trustees, Chancellor, and senior leadership in accomplishing institutional objectives by evaluating and improving the effectiveness of governance, risk management, internal controls, and compliance processes across the University.

Primary Function of Organizational Unit:

The Office of Internal Audit provides independent assurance and advisory services to support accountability, transparency, operational effectiveness, and stewardship of public resources. The office evaluates whether the University maintains effective internal controls; operates in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and policies; and manages institutional risks in alignment with strategic objectives.

The CAO reports administratively to the Chancellor and functionally to the Risk Management, Audit, and Compliance (RMAC) Committee of the Board of Trustees. The position operates with organizational and functional independence in accordance with the Institute of Internal Auditors' Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing, including full, free, and unrestricted access to all University records, personnel, physical properties, and information systems relevant to audit responsibilities.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of seven (7) years of internal or external audit experience, including at least three (3) years in a supervisory or leadership role.

Preferred:

• Professional certification such as CPA, CIA, CISA, CFE, or similar. Experience in higher education or complex public-sector environments.
• Master's degree in accounting, Business Administration, Public Administration or a related field.
• Experience using data analytics and audit automation tools.