Chief Audit Officer

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission.

At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

Here is what we offer: 

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match 
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us! 

https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness

Howard University is seeking a Chief Audit Officer (CAO) who serves as the institution's senior audit executive, leading the internal audit function with authority and independence to provide objective assurance and advisory services across all university operations. The CAO plays a critical role in protecting institutional assets, enhancing operational effectiveness, and supporting the achievement of strategic objectives through systematic evaluation and improvement of risk management, internal controls, and governance processes.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning & Audit Execution

• Develop and annually update a comprehensive, risk-based internal audit plan aligned with the university's strategic priorities, emerging risks, and compliance requirements
• Present the annual audit plan to the Audit Committee for review and approval, adapting priorities dynamically in response to changing institutional needs
• Direct and oversee all internal audit engagements, including financial, operational, compliance, information technology, and investigative audits
• Ensure audit work is performed in accordance with the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing (IIA Standards)
• Implement and maintain a quality assurance and improvement program, including periodic external assessments
• Coordinate audit activities with external auditors and regulatory agencies to maximize coverage and minimize redundancy

Reporting & Communication

• Prepare and present comprehensive audit reports to the President, senior leadership, and Audit Committee, including findings, risk ratings, and actionable recommendations
• Communicate significant risk exposures, control deficiencies, and governance concerns to the Audit Committee in a timely and transparent manner
• Provide quarterly status reports on audit plan progress, emerging risks, follow-up on prior recommendations, and resource utilization
• Meet privately with the Audit Committee without management present to discuss sensitive matters
• Review audit workpapers, findings, and reports to ensure quality, accuracy, and appropriate support for conclusions

Risk Management & Advisory Services

• Conduct ongoing enterprise risk assessments in collaboration with senior leadership to identify and prioritize audit areas
• Monitor the institutional risk environment, including emerging risks related to technology, cybersecurity, research integrity, Title IX, athletics, sponsored programs, and student services
• Provide advisory services and consultation on new systems, processes, policies, and strategic initiatives from a risk and control perspective
• Track regulatory and legal developments affecting higher education, including federal and state requirements, accreditation standards, and grant compliance
• Facilitate training and awareness programs on internal controls, fraud prevention, ethics, and risk management

Investigations & Special Projects

• Lead or oversee investigations into allegations of fraud, financial irregularities, policy violations, or misconduct with appropriate confidentiality and due process
• Coordinate with Human Resources, General Counsel, and law enforcement as appropriate during investigations
• Conduct special projects and ad hoc reviews at the request of the Audit Committee, President, or senior leadership

Independence & Professional Standards

• Maintain organizational independence and individual objectivity in all audit activities, free from interference in determining scope, performing work, and communicating results
• Uphold the IIA Code of Ethics and maintain professional skepticism in all engagements
• Ensure the internal audit function has unrestricted access to records, personnel, and physical properties relevant to audit activities
• Avoid conflicts of interest and recuse from audits where independence may be compromised

Team Leadership & External Coordination

• Recruit, supervise, mentor, and evaluate internal audit staff, fostering professional development and maintaining a high-performing team
• Promote continuing professional education and certification for audit staff
• Manage the internal audit budget and allocate resources effectively to achieve audit plan objectives
• Serve as the primary liaison with external auditors for financial statement audits, federal compliance audits (Single Audit), and NCAA agreed-upon procedures
• Manage relationships with external firms engaged for specialized audits or consulting services

Qualifications:

Education:

• Required: Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or related field
• Preferred: Master's degree in accounting, business administration (MBA), public administration (MPA), or related discipline

Certifications:

• Required: At least one of the following professional certifications:
  • Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
• Preferred: Multiple relevant certifications demonstrating breadth of expertise

Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive internal audit experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership or management role
• Demonstrated experience in higher education, public sector, nonprofit, or similarly complex organizational environments strongly preferred
• Proven track record of developing and executing risk-based audit plans and managing audit engagements from planning through reporting
• Experience presenting audit findings and recommendations to audit committees or boards of directors

Knowledge & Skills:

• Comprehensive understanding of the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing and the COSO Internal Control Framework
• Strong knowledge of governance, enterprise risk management, and compliance frameworks (e.g., COSO ERM, ISO 31000)
• Familiarity with higher education regulations including Title IV financial aid, OMB Uniform Guidance, research compliance, NCAA rules, and FERPA
• Proficiency in data analytics tools and audit management software
• Understanding of information technology controls, cybersecurity risks, and IT audit methodologies
• Knowledge of fraud detection and prevention techniques

Competencies:

• Leadership: Ability to lead and inspire a professional team, influence organizational change, and navigate complex institutional environments
• Communication: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with ability to present complex information clearly to diverse audiences
• Analytical Thinking: Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills with attention to detail
• Relationship Building: Diplomatic and collaborative approach, with ability to build trust and credibility across all organizational levels
• Integrity: Unwavering commitment to ethical conduct, objectivity, and professional standards
• Judgment: Sound decision-making ability and professional skepticism, balanced with pragmatism and business acumen
• Adaptability: Flexibility to manage changing priorities, emerging risks, and resource constraints in a dynamic environment

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure

Compensation Range: $240,000 - $260,000