Chief Audit Officer

Overview Chief Audit Officer (CAO) responsible for leading and executing the organization’s global internal audit program, ensuring effective internal controls, compliance with policies and regulations, and oversight of grant monitoring. The CAO manages a professional staff of auditors, serves as the liaison to the Audit Committee, and reports functionally to the Audit Committee and operationally to the General Counsel. The role is remote in the US or Canada, aligned with EST working hours. Key Responsibilities Develop and lead the organization’s global internal audit strategy, aligning with mission, risk profile, and regulatory requirements. Advise executive leadership and the Audit Committee on internal control effectiveness, risk mitigation, and compliance matters. Collaborate with Legal, Risk, and other Enterprise Risk Team members on control environment and risk mitigation. Design and implement a comprehensive, risk‑based internal audit program covering financial, operational, compliance, and IT risks. Ensure audits are conducted in accordance with IIA and professional standards, and internal policies. Prepare agendas and reports, present findings to the Audit Committee and senior leadership. Monitor compliance with internal policies, donor requirements, and government regulations such as OMB Uniform Guidance. Participate in investigations of suspected fraud, misconduct, or control failures, coordinating with legal and HR as needed. Lead and develop a multi‑region audit team, setting performance objectives, coaching, and fostering an ethical audit culture. Collaborate with Finance, Legal, Risk, and Operations to strengthen controls and risk management. Represent the organization externally in audit-related forums, peer networks, and donor engagements. Promote continuous improvement of audit methodologies, tools, and reporting, leveraging technology and data analytics. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Finance or Accounting. At least 7 years of related internal audit experience. Five or more years of people‑management experience and interaction with executive management and an Audit Committee. Professional certification as a CPA or CIA. Experience with government grant regulations and contracts. Proven ability to design, implement, and lead multiple complex projects. Experience navigating large, complex organizations. Desired Qualifications 10+ years of leadership experience in internal audit. Master’s degree preferred. International work experience preferred; nonprofit experience a plus. Public accounting or internal auditing experience a plus. Proficiency in audit and data‑analytics tools (audit software, Excel, Power BI, ACL, Tableau). Excellent written and verbal communication skills for board and executive leadership. Strong organization, attention to detail, and ability to motivate and lead staff. Fluency in foreign language(s) a plus. Compensation United States: $180,000‑$280,000 annually, based on location, qualifications, and experience. Canada: CAD 258,000‑280,000 annually, based on location, qualifications, and experience. Equal Employment Opportunity The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr