Director of Internal Auditing

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NC A&T) seeks a strategic, forward-thinking audit leader to serve as Director of Internal Auditing at a pivotal moment in the University’s continued growth and advancement toward R1 research classification. Reporting administratively to the Chancellor and functionally to the Risk Management, Audit, and Compliance (RMAC) Committee of the Board of Trustees, the Director will lead an independent internal audit function within a large, complex, and evolving institutional environment. This individual will bring deep expertise in audit, risk management, and governance to strengthen accountability, enhance risk awareness, and support effective decision-making across the University. As a key partner to senior leadership, the Director will play a central role in building a high-impact, forward-looking audit function that aligns with professional standards while supporting the University’s strategic priorities.

The Director of Internal Auditing advances an independent and objective assurance function that is dedicated to adding value to the University. The Office of Internal Auditing provides independent, objective assurance and advisory services that are designed to add value and improve operations, assisting the University in accomplishing its objectives by utilizing a systematic, disciplined approach to evaluating and improving the effectiveness of risk management, control, and governance processes. In doing so, the Director serves as a strategic yet hands-on leader who ensures the development and maintenance of an independent, objective internal audit program that aligns with professional standards and institutional priorities, while reinforcing accountability and strengthening a culture of risk awareness and continuous improvement.

Serving with organizational and functional independence in accordance with the Institute of Internal Auditor’s Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing, the Director operates with full, free, and unrestricted access to all University records, personnel, physical properties, and informational systems relevant to audit responsibilities. The Director is responsible for establishing and sustaining the overall direction, authority, and credibility of the internal audit function, including oversight of the Internal Audit Charter and ensuring that appropriate policies, procedures, and methodologies are in place to support consistent, high-quality audit work.

This role presents a significant opportunity to lead the development and execution of a comprehensive, risk-based internal audit program informed by enterprise-wide risk assessments, emerging risk trends, regulatory requirements, and input from senior leadership and the RMAC Committee. The Director will direct and oversee audits of financial, operational, compliance, information technology, cybersecurity, research, and administrative functions, while ensuring audits are completed efficiently, objectively, and in accordance with professional standards and applicable requirements.

The Director will coordinate internal audit activities with external and system-level audit and oversight entities, including the UNC System Office Chief Audit Officer and the North Carolina Office of the State Auditor, serving as the University’s primary liaison for external audit engagements, system-directed audit initiatives, and regulatory or oversight reviews. In addition, the Director will direct and, as appropriate, conduct independent investigations and special reviews related to allegations of fraud, waste, abuse, misconduct, or significant control failures, while maintaining independence, confidentiality, and objectivity.

This position offers the opportunity to operate at scale in a rapidly evolving research environment as North Carolina A&T advances toward R1 classification. The Director will build and lead an audit function that effectively serves a large, multifaceted institution that includes research enterprises, auxiliary operations, and affiliated entities, bringing a strategic, enterprise-wide perspective to risk assessment and audit planning. Beyond traditional assurance activities, the Director is positioned to shape a forward-looking, value-added audit function—anticipating emerging risks, leveraging data and insights, and strengthening a culture that balances accountability with continuous improvement.

Working closely with the Chancellor and the RMAC Committee, the Director will also play a key role in partnering with new leadership to strengthen governance, risk management, and compliance practices at a pivotal moment for the University. Success in this role will require the ability to build trust, communicate effectively across diverse stakeholders, and operate with both independence and influence in a high-expectations, forward-looking environment.

The ideal candidate will bring a bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field from an accredited institution, along with a minimum of seven (7) years of internal or external audit experience, including at least three (3) years in a supervisory or leadership role. Portfolio-enhancing qualifications include professional certification such as CPA, CIA, CISA, CFE, or similar; experience in higher education or complex public-sector environments; a master’s degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field; and experience using data analytics and audit automation tools.

Screening will begin immediately and continue until an appointment is made. Completed applications should include a CV and a cover letter addressing interest and should be submitted using our Talent Profile.

Nominations and inquiries should be directed electronically to NCAT_Dir_InternalAuditing@dsgco.com. This is a full-time position that will be performed on site in North Carolina. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience.

Christine Falcone, Managing Associate
NCAT_Dir_InternalAuditing@dsgco.com

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. No one who applies or seeks employment will be denied consideration at North Carolina A&T State based on race, religion, national origin, sex, age, disabling condition, veteran status, political affiliation, genetic information or sexual orientation or sexual identity.