Head of Internal Audit

Job Description

Role Summary:

The Head of Internal Audit is responsible for IIE’s strategic risk-based internal audit plan and managing the internal audit function in accordance with IIE’s internal audit charter and the professional standards for internal auditing promulgated by the Institute of Internal Auditors.

Responsibilities include providing reasonable assurance on the effectiveness of the organization’s risk management and the strength of internal controls. The position assesses organization-wide compliance with IIE’s internal policies and procedures, laws and regulations, contractual terms and conditions, US government (USG) assistance and acquisition regulations/requirements, efficiency of operations, and accuracy of programmatic and financial reporting.

The Head of Internal Audit reports directly to the Audit Committee of IIE’s Board of Trustees with administrative oversight from the CFO.

Essential Functions:

• Develop annually a risk-based internal audit plan for Audit Committee review and approval. Oversee the implementation of the approved plan, ensure proper resourcing for implementation of the plan, and adjust the plan as needed in response to changes in IIE’s business risks, operations, programs, systems and controls. Keep senior management and Audit Committee apprised of any changes needed to the internal audit plan.
• Ensure methodical documentation of work plans, testing results, conclusions and recommendations. Ensure follow up on findings and corrective actions.
• Provide technical assistance with investigations, special audits, and provide subject-matter expertise as needed.
• Remain current on audit and USG regulatory oversight trends and develop a risk based approach incorporated into the annual audit plan.
• Perform organization-wide risk assessments to identify significant risks or exposure related to internal controls or compliance with IIE’s policies and procedures, laws and regulations, sponsored contract and USG regulatory requirements, efficiency of operations, and accuracy of programmatic and financial reporting. Provide feedback and recommendations on business risks and improving operational efficiencies and processes where appropriate.
• Direct the work of external auditors on select audits, as directed by the Audit Committee and senior management, to ensure the audit work remains within the prescribed guidelines.
• Coordinate and assist with the preparation of Audit Committee materials. Participate in quarterly or more frequent Audit Committee meetings
• Investigate and report to the Audit Committee on activity reported through IIE’s Hotline/Whistleblower processes and assist in investigations.
• Recommend organization-wide training based on gaps identified to ensure adherence to IIE’s practices and policies. Stay abreast of emerging trends and successful practices in internal audit related to USG funding and the non-profit sector more generally.
• Establish and assign departmental goals to team members and evaluate their performance.
• Responsible for coaching, mentoring, and developing career paths for direct reports.

Education and Work Experience Requirements:

• A Bachelor’s degree in a related field. Graduate degree a plus.
• 10 to 15 years of related work experience with at least 3 years in a Head of Internal Audit role or equivalent.

Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• CPA, CIA, CISA or equivalent required.
• Comprehensive understanding of COSO and/or the GAO Green Book frameworks.
• Knowledge of US GAAP and/or GAAS guidelines preferred.
• In-depth knowledge of Federal regulations, including 2 CFR 200 (USG Uniform Guidance) required.
• Working knowledge of the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) a plus.
• Ability to effectively communicate with Board of Trustees and Senior Management.

Work Conditions & Physical Demands: Essential functions are performed in an open office setting with low ambient noise. Job demands may require long periods of sitting; telephone work and/or computer work, as well as interactions with other team members and external stakeholders. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.

About the Organization

At the Institute of International Education (IIE), we believe that when education transcends borders, it opens minds, enabling people to go beyond building connections to solving problems together. Our vision is a peaceful, equitable world enriched by the international exchange of ideas and greater understanding between people and cultures.