Description:
Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) is seeking a Director, Internal Audit to provide independent, objective assurance and audit services to the Board of Governors and the Chief Financial Officer (CFO). The successful candidate will be responsible for establishing and leading the Internal Audit department, ensuring compliance with governance, risk management, and control processes across all university operations.
This is a newly created position, and the incoming Director will build the division from the ground up, playing a key role in shaping audit strategy, risk assessment, and internal controls at KPU.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage the Internal Audit department, including supervising the Manager, Internal Audit.
- Develop and implement a risk-based Internal Audit Plan (IAP), ensuring compliance with policies, governance, and operational controls.
- Provide independent assurance services to the Board of Governors and CFO.
- Conduct risk assessments, internal control evaluations, and performance audits for all university operations.
- Monitor, review, and report on audit implementation progress to the Audit Committee.
- Collaborate with senior leadership to improve financial and operational integrity.
- Ensure compliance with audit standards, policies, and regulatory requirements.
- Manage internal and external audit relationships to optimize governance practices.
- Work closely with administrative and governance committees, including the Audit and Finance committees.
- Lead strategic and tactical initiatives, ensuring a high level of confidentiality and conflict resolution management.
Required Experience & Skills:
- University degree in Accounting, Finance, or a relevant field.
- Professional designation (CIA, CPA, CA, CMA, CGA) required and must be in good standing.
- Minimum 10 years of finance experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role within an internal or external audit environment.
- Experience in the post-secondary sector and unionized environments is an asset.
- Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) designation is an asset.
- Extensive knowledge of audit practices, risk-based audit planning, governance, and compliance standards.
- Strong leadership, strategic planning, and project management abilities.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills to engage with senior management and external stakeholders.
- Strong relationship-building and team collaboration skills.
- Ability to travel between campuses as required.
Competencies:
- Leadership: Inspire, coach, mentor, and support employees and students.
- Accountability: Take ownership of decisions and results with fiscal responsibility.
- Continuous Improvement: Seek innovative solutions to enhance value for KPU.
- Collaboration: Work cross-functionally to solve complex issues and meet objectives.
Employment Details:
- Employment Type: Permanent Full-Time
- Workplace Type: Hybrid
- Travel Frequency: Occasional inter-campus travel required
- Competition ID: 2554
- Closing Date: Open Until Filled
Benefits & Compensation:
- Annual salary increases based on experience and performance.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits.
- Generous vacation package.
- Defined pension plan and parental leave top-up.
- Sick leave and long-term disability coverage.
- Life insurance and professional development opportunities.
- Tuition waiver and in-house training programs.
- Inter-campus transportation support.