Head of Internal Audit

Location

This position may be fully remote or based hybrid out of one of EDF's U.S. offices.

Overall Function

The Head of Internal Audit is responsible for overseeing and leading the organization’s internal audit function to provide independent, objective assurance and advisory services designed to add value and improve operations. This role evaluates and enhances the effectiveness of governance, risk management and internal control processes across the organization.

The Head of Internal Audit develops and executes a risk-based internal audit plan, assesses the effectiveness of risks and internal controls, ensures timely and thorough audit reporting and provides actionable insights to Executive Management and the Audit Committee. The role promotes a proactive audit approach that anticipates emerging risks, strengthens compliance, improves operational efficiency and supports sound financial and management strategic decision-making

This position maintains organizational independence while fostering collaborative relationships across departments and ensuring accountability at appropriate levels of management. This role requires strong leadership ability, excellent communication skills, and a deep understanding of audit methodologies and best practices.

The Head of Internal Audit reports to the VP, Enterprise Compliance, Legal, and Services and has one direct report.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a risk-based internal audit plan that addresses financial, operational compliance and programmatic risks specific to the non-profit environment.
• Act as a strategic advisor to senior and executive leadership on risk, governance, and process improvements.
• Provide independent assurance to the Audit Committee regarding the effectiveness of internal controls, governance and risk management practices. Provide independent reporting to the Audit Committee on the annual audit plan, findings, and corrective actions, ensuring the timely escalation of significant risks or control issues Maintain and annually update the Internal Audit Charter.
• Synthesize complex audit data into high-impact reports and executive-level presentations for the Audit Committee and senior leadership, translating technical findings into clear, actionable insights that drive strategic decision-making.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of internal controls and processes, identifying weaknesses and recommending solutions to mitigate risk and ensure compliance with applicable laws and internal policies.
• Monitor the implementation of audit recommendations and perform rigorous follow-up on outstanding issues to ensure timely and effective resolution.
• Conduct special consultant-type examinations as requested, support investigations related to fraud or control failures as appropriate, and leverage data analytics to evolve audit methodologies.
• Participate in advancing EDF’s organizational effectiveness and culture goals, so people from all backgrounds and experiences feel connected, included and empowered to address environmental and organizational challenges in ways that align with EDF values.
• Lead and develop the internal audit team while fostering a culture of integrity, accountability, and continuous improvement within the audit team across the organization.
• Additional relevant responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration or related filed required. Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 10+ years of progressive experience in internal audit, public accounting or risk management with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Professional certifications such as a CPA, CIA, CISA certification required.
• Experience in a large nonprofit with complex funding structures preferred.
• Strong knowledge of nonprofit accounting standards, Uniform Guidance and donor/grant compliance.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and executing risk-based audit plans and presenting results to executive leadership and Board and Audit Committee members.
• Deep understanding of internal controls, enterprise risk management, governance frameworks and fraud risk assessment.
• Experience overseeing audits of restricted funds and grants management.
• Proven ability to lead, coach, and develop high-performing teams, fostering accountability, collaboration, and continuous professional growth.
• Proactive, comprehensive analytical skills, and attention to detail, with the ability to identify issues, analyze root causes and develop practical solutions.
• Proven project management skills and time management skills and the ability to juggle multiple responsibilities and deadlines.
• Excellent verbal and written communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively interact with stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Demonstrated integrity, ethics, and professionalism in handling confidential information and sensitive situations.
• Ability to work well independently as well as collaboratively with cross-functional colleagues spread across time zones.
• Demonstrated self-awareness, cultural competency and inclusiveness, and ability to work with colleagues and stakeholders across all cultures and backgrounds.
• Strong proficiency in audit software, data analytics tools, and Microsoft Office suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.).
• Willingness and ability to travel up 10% of the time domestically and internationally, as needed.