Senior Internal Auditor

Responsible for leading the performance of financial and operational audits using a risk-based audit approach to evaluate the effectiveness of internal controls, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. Leads the review of Credit Union processes to identify opportunities for improvement, strengthen controls, and mitigate risks related to financial integrity. Leads audits across key areas including financial accounting, Operations Center activities, Mortgage Operations, and Business Lending.  Leads the execution and training of audit procedures such as sampling, data analytics, verification, and reporting to evaluate loan quality, documentation, and compliance with federal regulations. Prepares clear, actionable audit reports summarizing observations, conclusions, and recommendations, and collaborates with management to support timely remediation and continuous improvement. Acts as a mentor to other Internal Audit personnel.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND BASIC DUTIES

1. Responsible for leading effective and accurate financial and operational audits in accordance with current IIA Standards

a. Leads complex or high-risk audits of various areas including financial accounting functions, Operations Center Systems, Consumer Lending, Mortgage Operations, Business Loans, Branch Operations and other areas with minimal supervision.

b. Provides guidance, training, and quality review of internal auditor workpapers for accuracy and completeness. Trains auditors on risk-based audit methodology and alignment with IIA Standards. 

c. Leads in assessing risk in the Credit Union’s operations and performing a “risk based” audit approach, including developing audit scope and objectives for assigned audits. Contributes to enterprise risk assessment and supports alignment of audit plan with organizational risk priorities.

d. Examines credit and financial portfolios to determine compliance with established policies, standards, and legal requirements. Interviews Credit Union personnel to gather information and determine compliance with established procedures. Trains other auditors to perform these functions. 

e. Identifies and reports discrepancies, errors, and other detected problems.

2. Leads effective audit reporting and planning as assigned.

a. Develops a calendar scheduling key audit activities and reports progress periodically throughout the year.

b. Drafts executive-level reports with root cause analysis and actionable recommendations.  Provides leadership in developing high-quality, well-documented audit workpapers and ensures effective maintenance and utilization of AuditBoard or other audit management systems to support the full audit lifecycle.

c. Leads in the development of new or improved financial and operations audit programs, incorporating data analytics techniques. Responsible for developing audit procedures and makes recommendations regarding what is to be audited, the methods to be used, and the frequency of audits in accordance with Global Internal Audit Standards

d. Develops mastery of UCCU’s policies and procedures as well as the internal financial and operational controls which ensure the adequate protection of Credit Union assets.  Understands the effectiveness of controls (design and functionality) in performance of respective audits.

e. Leads presentation of audit results and explains suggested recommendations. Facilitates closing meetings and communicates results to senior management.

3. Assumes responsibility for establishing and maintaining effective communication and coordination with Credit Union personnel and with management.

a. Assists Director of Internal Audit as needed and supervises staff auditors during engagements and ensures quality control.

b. Provides assistance and support to Credit Union personnel, while maintaining independence.

c.    Maintains a professional relationship with Credit Union personnel. Mentors and coaches staff auditors, providing technical guidance and feedback.

d. Keeps supervisor informed of area activities and of any significant problems. Escalates significant risks promptly and recommends strategic solutions.

e. Completes reports, audits, and work papers accurately and timely and tracks and monitors management action plans to ensure timely resolution of audit findings.

f. Attends meetings as required.

g. Works a regular and predictable schedule. 

h. Must be sufficiently fluent in English to process work and business transactions. 

4. Assumes responsibility for ensuring that professional business relationships are established and maintained with the community, Credit Union members, other financial institutions, and audit professionals.

a. Maintains the Credit Union's reputation, both internally and externally. Builds external networks to benchmark best practices and bring innovative ideas to the Credit Union. Maintains appropriate levels of confidentiality.

b. Resolves requests, complaints, or problems promptly.

c. Represents the Credit Union in contacts with business and trade associations and otherwise promotes the Credit Union's interests. Participates in the Utah Association of Credit Union Audit and Risk Professionals group activities and meetings and/or other appropriate peer groups.

5. Assumes responsibility for related duties as required or assigned.

a. Leads special investigations or audits with minimal supervision.

b. Serves as a subject matter expert of regulatory compliance, and emerging trends and developments in the auditing field.

c. Champions process improvement initiatives within Internal Audit and across the organization.

PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENTS

1. Leads complex or high-risk audits with minimal supervision. Develops audit scope and objectives for assigned engagements. Provides guidance and quality review of internal auditor workpapers for accuracy and completeness. Auditing functions are accurately and effectively performed in accordance with Credit Union policies, procedures, and legal requirements. Discrepancies, errors, and problems with documentation are promptly identified and reported.

2. Identifies emerging risks and proactively recommends strategic control improvements. Influences management decisions by presenting actional insights and root cause analysis. Contributes to annual risk assessment and audit plan development. Implements data analytics or continuous auditing techniques to enhance audit efficiency.

3. Serves as primary liaison for complex audits, fostering trust and collaboration. Facilitates closing meetings and communicates findings at an executive level. Good working relations exist with audited departments.

4. Mentors and coaches other internal auditors, providing technical guidance and feedback. Assists in onboarding and training new team members. 

5. Escalates significant risks promptly and recommends remediation strategies. Provides timely status updates and contributes to strategic discussions on audit priorities.

6. Drafts executive summaries and high-impact reports tailored for senior leadership and committees. Ensure reports include root cause analysis and practical recommendations aligned with organizational strategy. Required reports are accurate, professional, timely, informative, and free of spelling and grammatical errors.

7. Continued education and training is obtained on an approved annual schedule. Pursues advanced certifications (CIA, CCUIA, CFE) or specialized training in risk management, data analytics, or regulatory compliance. Shares knowledge through internal workshops or process improvement initiatives.

8. Maintains a thorough understanding of NCUA regulations for safety and soundness and compliance. Serves as subject matter expert for NCUA regulations and emerging compliance trends. Advises management on regulatory changes and their impact on internal controls.

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION: BS degree in Accounting, finance, or related field. 

Industry certification suggested (CIA, CFE or CPA).

Other industry certification helpful (CFE, CISA, CMA).

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE : Thorough understanding of applicable laws, regulations, financial and operational functions of financial institution and related policies and procedures.

Understanding of credit functions and procedures. 

Mastery of auditing principles, practices, and standards (including IIA).  

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Five years of progressive auditing experience. 

Experience with financial services industry helpful.

SKILLS/ABILITIES: Proficiency in related computer applications, including Microsoft Office.

Solid analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Tough minded, persistent, and tactful.    

Strong written and oral communication skills.

Good public relations abilities.

Ability to work well independently.

Able to operate PC, telephone, and basic business machines.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES AND REQUIREMENTS OF THIS POSITION

FINGER DEXTERITY: Using primarily just the fingers to make small movements such as typing, picking up small objects, or pinching fingers together.

TALKING: Especially where one must frequently convey detailed or important instructions or ideas clearly, loudly, or quickly.

AVERAGE HEARING: Able to hear average or normal conversations and receive ordinary information.

REPETITIVE MOTION: Movements frequently and regularly required using the wrists, hands, and/or fingers.

AVERAGE VISUAL ABILITIES: Average, ordinary visual acuity necessary to prepare or inspect documents or products, or operate machinery.

PHYSICAL STRENGTH: Sedentary work; sitting most of the time. Exerts up to 10 lbs. of force occasionally.  (Almost all office jobs.)

WORKING CONDITIONS

NONE: No hazardous or significantly unpleasant conditions (such as in a typical office).

MENTAL ACTIVITIES AND REQUIREMENTS OF THIS POSITION

REASONING ABILITY: Ability to apply sound judgment and structured analytical thinking to define problems, evaluate risk, analyze data, and draw well supported conclusions. Ability to interpret complex policies, regulations, and audit guidance, and to assess situations involving multiple variables and competing priorities.

MATHEMATICS ABILITY: Ability to analyze financial and operational data, including ratios, percentages, interest calculations, and incentive payout formulas. Ability to evaluate employee incentive programs through recalculation, trend analysis, and audit sampling. Ability to apply basic statistical concepts and professional judgment to assess results and support audit conclusions.

LANGUAGE ABILITY: Ability to read and interpret policies, procedures, regulations, professional standards, and regulatory guidance. Ability to prepare clear, well structured audit reports, memos, and executive summaries using proper grammar and professional tone. Ability to communicate complex issues clearly and effectively with management and senior leadership.