Head of Data Analytics, Automation, AI & Continuous Auditing (DAACA)

Overview The Head of Data Analytics, Automation, AI & Continuous Auditing (DAACA) is a leadership role within Internal Audit, responsible for defining and scaling data‑driven capabilities across the audit lifecycle and within audit operations. The role combines strategy, delivery and people leadership to embed analytics, automation and AI into audit planning, execution and reporting – enhancing audit quality, coverage, efficiency and insight generation to stakeholders. The DAACA function operates as a capability center and strategic enabler, driving innovation while ensuring alignment with Internal Audit standards, data governance and enterprise risk priorities. Responsibilities Define and execute the DAACA vision, strategy and multi‑year roadmap aligned to Internal Audit and enterprise priorities. Position DAACA as a core pillar of audit transformation, advancing continuous assurance and data‑driven auditing. Identify and prioritise high‑value use cases for analytics, automation and AI across audits and enterprise risk themes. Establish and track KPIs/KRIs (e.g., adoption, coverage expansion, cycle time reduction, insight generation, cost efficiency). Drive value realisation and ROI, demonstrating measurable impact to Audit Leadership and the Audit & Risk Committee. Embed analytics and automation into the end‑to‑end audit lifecycle – risk assessment, planning, fieldwork and reporting. Expand continuous assurance, shifting from point‑in‑time reviews to ongoing risk coverage. Standardise reusable analytics and control libraries to improve consistency and scalability. Partner with audit teams to increase coverage and reduce manual testing dependency. Oversee development and delivery of scalable, repeatable and well‑governed solutions. Implement a product‑oriented operating model (e.g., use case backlog, prioritisation, iterative delivery). Ensure strong data‑engineering, data‑quality and documentation standards. Evaluate and optimise the tooling ecosystem, balancing transformative initiatives with ongoing delivery (run vs build). Lead responsible adoption of AI/GenAI within Internal Audit, including use‑case identification, deployment and governance. Establish governance and controls frameworks for AI usage in audit activities, ensuring alignment with enterprise AI, data governance and model‑risk frameworks. Upskill auditors on AI‑enabled auditing techniques. Serve as a primary interface between Internal Audit and Technology, Data, AI and Risk functions, influencing adoption as a trusted advisor to audit leadership and business stakeholders. Partner with enterprise teams to leverage existing data assets, platforms and capabilities, and support regulatory, QAIP and stakeholder inquiries related to analytics, automation and AI. Build and lead a high‑performing multidisciplinary team (data analysts, data scientists, automation specialists, visualisation experts, etc.). Define career paths, skill frameworks and training programmes aligned to future IA capabilities. Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement. Develop a network of “DAACA Champions” embedded across audit teams to drive adoption. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Information Systems, Data Analytics, Engineering). 10+ years of experience in internal/external audit. 5+ years of experience implementing analytics, automation and/or AI within Internal Audit or Risk functions. Experience with AI/GenAI use cases and governance considerations. Proven ability to translate data/technology capabilities into business and audit value. Strong understanding of the audit lifecycle, risk management and control frameworks. Demonstrated people leadership and team development experience. Preferred experience with Python, SQL, Power BI/Tableau, Power Automate, Power Query, Alteryx or similar tools. Experience with Copilot Studio and Claude Cowork. Experience with agile or product‑based delivery models. Professional certifications (e.g., CIA, CISA, CPA). Salary & Compensation Salary Range: $152,290.00 – $250,195.00. The salary range is a good‑faith estimate of base pay for the primary location of the position. Compensation may also include annual, sales or other incentive pay. Benefits & Location Hybrid role: In‑office 3 days a week, WFH 2 days a week. Preferred locations are Guardian Offices in HudsonYards,NYC;Bethlehem,PA; orHolmdel,NJ. Minimal travel is expected but up to 10% may be possible. Equal Employment Opportunity Guardian is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, marital status, disability, military or veteran status, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Accommodations Guardian commits to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs and activities. Qualified applicants requiring accommodations are encouraged to contact Guardian Human Resources for assistance. Visa Sponsorship Guardian is not currently sponsoring employment visas. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship. #J-18808-Ljbffr