The Chief Audit Executive (CAE) is responsible for leading the College's internal audit function using a risk-based, integrated auditing approach that aligns with the College's strategic goals and evolving risk landscape. The CAE is responsible for developing and executing the audit plan, prioritizing areas of highest risk, and utilizing an agile methodology to adapt to emerging risks and business changes. In this role, the CAE provides strategic assurance to senior management and the board, offering insights into governance, risk management, and internal controls. By fostering a responsive and effective audit process, the CAE supports decision-making, promotes continuous improvement, and helps safeguard the College's operations and long-term success.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1. Responsible for developing and updating the risk-based, integrated, internal audit plan, ensuring it aligns with the College's risk profile, business objectives, and strategic priorities. This involves continuous monitoring of emerging risks and making adjustments as needed
2. Provides strategic insights and assurance to senior leadership, the Chancellor, the Audit & Finance Committee, and the Board of Trustees. This includes presenting audit results, risk assessments, and recommendations for improving internal controls, compliance, and governance
3. Leads and manages the Audit and Consulting Services team, providing guidance, mentoring, and training to enhance team capabilities. This includes overseeing the performance and professional development of auditors, ensuring they have the necessary skills and tools to execute audits effectively
4. Leads assurance and advisory projects that provide value-added recommendations to senior management on improving business processes, controls, and risk mitigation strategies. These projects are aligned with the College's strategic initiatives and offer proactive support in managing key risks
5. Responsible for overseeing the Audit and Consulting Services team's efforts in fraud detection and investigation. This includes investigating allegations of fraud, ensuring thorough and timely investigations, and implementing preventive measures. The CAE works closely with senior management to address potential fraud risks and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements
6. Oversees the implementation of agile auditing practices, ensuring audits are responsive to emerging risks and organizational changes. This includes ensuring audits are iterative, flexible, and continuously aligned with the College's evolving priorities
7. Collaborates with key stakeholders to ensure that audit findings and risk issues are communicated effectively and that management action plans are implemented. This also involves fostering strong relationships to ensure alignment between the audit function and organizational objectives
8. Ensures the internal audit function adheres to professional standards, industry best practices, and regulatory requirements. This includes overseeing internal and external quality assurance reviews and continuous improvement initiatives to maintain audit effectiveness and relevance
9. Responsible for preparing and delivering reports to the Chancellor's Cabinet, Chancellor, the Audit & Finance Committee, and the Board of Trustees, including comprehensive updates on audit results, significant risks, and internal control issues. This includes providing actionable recommendations to enhance governance and risk management
10. Advocates for a strong risk management and governance culture within the College. This involves participating in committees to advocate a culture of compliance and other governance initiatives such as the Compliance Review Committee. This also involves educating and raising awareness among senior leaders and employees about the importance of risk management, controls, and the role of internal audit in safeguarding the organization
11. Participates in local, state, and national internal auditing organizations to represent the College and to keep up with current industry practices, changing professional standards, audit trends and higher education and government industry standards
12. Responsible for collaborating across the other lines of defense, namely the Office of Governance, Accountability and Compliance, the Office of General Counsel, and the Office of Technology Services. This is accomplished through active communication and information sharing across functions to ensure complementary assurance and compliance efforts and provide a comprehensive understanding of the College's system-wide risks
13. Responsible for other reasonable, related duties as assigned

ALL APPLICANTS MUST APPLY ONLINE ONLY at https://www.lonestar.edu/executive-recruitment/chief-audit-executive?campus=system

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master's degree, and at least 10 years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Experience must include at least 3 years in a management-level position
• Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• At least 10 years of auditing experience
• Experience with internal auditing in a higher education environment
• Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certification in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA), Certified Government Audit Professional (CGAP)