Director of Internal Audit

Ascend Partner Firms•Bellevue, WA

1d•$125,000 - $160,000•Remote

About The Position

The Director of Internal Audit will oversee and manage outsourced and co-sourced internal audit engagements for credit unions and community banks while helping to drive the continued growth of the firm. This role is ideal for a highly motivated professional with an entrepreneurial spirit—someone who naturally builds relationships, makes friends within the industry, and becomes a trusted advisor to client executives, Boards, and Audit Committees. Beyond managing high‑quality audit delivery, the Director will play an active role in expanding the firm’s presence across the credit union and community banking sectors. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong leadership capabilities, deep knowledge of financial institution operations, and a strategic mindset geared toward business development and long‑term client partnership. This position is part of the firm’s succession and growth strategy; therefore, top candidates will have the potential and desire to advance into partnership‑level leadership, contributing to firm strategy, client engagement expansion, and overall organizational success.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field.
CIA, CPA, CISA, or similar professional certification strongly preferred.
8+ years of internal audit or risk management experience within financial institutions.
Proven leadership ability within an outsourced advisory or audit environment.
Strong knowledge of regulatory frameworks including NCUA, FFIEC, and FDIC.
Excellent communication, analytical, and client‑management skills.
Ability to manage multiple engagements and deadlines.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with credit unions and community banks.
Familiarity with IT audit practices and cybersecurity frameworks.
Ability to identify and deliver value‑added recommendations.
Strong presentation and report‑writing skills.

Responsibilities

Lead and oversee internal audit engagements for credit union and bank clients.
Develop annual risk‑based audit plans tailored to client needs.
Evaluate internal controls, operational processes, and risk management frameworks.
Prepare and present audit reports to executive leadership, Boards, and Audit Committees.
Ensure audits comply with NCUA, FFIEC, FDIC, and state regulatory guidelines.
Provide advisory services to improve client governance, controls, and efficiency.
Supervise and mentor auditors; ensure high‑quality performance and development.
Maintain strong client relationships and support business development efforts.
Monitor emerging risks and regulatory changes affecting financial institutions.