Chief Audit and Investigations Officer

Chief Audit & Investigations Officer

The Chief Audit & Investigations Officer leads and manages the confidential Department of Audit and Management Services. The Chief is expected to serve as a strategic advisor to senior leadership and the Board, with a focus on helping the organization strengthen and maintain systems of governance, accountability, and integrity.

The Department of Audit and Management Services (A&MS) is a key component of the New York State Thruway Authority's independent internal oversight system. The Department of A&MS is positioned with direct reporting access to the Executive Director and the Authority Board permitting operational independence for the performance of its duties. A&MS' primary purpose is to provide independent, objective assurance, and investigation services that support transparency and accountability across the Authority. A&MS conducts internal audits and investigations into allegations of fraud, waste, and abuse. The Department exercises operational independence in the performance of all its duties.

Specific duties may include, but not be limited to the following :

• Strategic leadership and planning :
• Develop the audit and investigation strategy : Create a risk-based annual audit plan that aligns with the organization's strategic goals and objectives.
• Conduct risk assessments : Continuously monitor and assess organizational risks, including financial, operational, compliance, and IT risks, to inform the audit plan.
• Provide expert counsel : Serve as a key advisor to senior management and the Authority Board of Directors on emerging issues affecting internal audit and investigative activities.
• Lead continuous improvement : Drive initiatives to enhance audit methodologies, tools, and processes, often by leveraging data analytics and automation.
• Investigations oversight :
• Manage complex investigations : Oversee or personally conduct complex and sensitive investigations into allegations of fraud, waste, and abuse.
• Ensure integrity and compliance : Direct the investigation process, ensuring it adheres to internal policies, ethical standards, and relevant legal and regulatory requirements.
• Gather evidence and interview witnesses : Supervise, direct, or perform the gathering of evidence, analysis of data, and conducting of interviews with key personnel.
• Manage the Preparation of Investigative Reports : Direct the preparation of investigative reports for relevant management use in disciplinary action or other appropriate follow-up actions.
• Safeguard confidentiality : Ensure the confidentiality and objectivity of all investigations to protect individuals and the integrity of the process.
• Audit execution and reporting :
• Direct Annual Audit Plan : Develop and implement an annual audit plan aligned with Authority objectives, key risk areas, being flexible and adaptable to emerging trends and issues. Submit plan for Authority Board review and approval and ensure accomplishment of goals and objectives.
• Oversee audit engagements : Direct internal audits of operational and compliance processes to ensure accuracy and adherence to policies and standards.
• Manage the reporting process : Prepare and present clear, concise, and actionable audit and investigation reports for the Audit Committee, senior leadership, and Authority Board.
• Monitor corrective actions : Follow up with management to ensure that corrective actions resulting from audit findings and investigations are implemented effectively and on time.
• Coordinate with external parties : Act as the primary liaison for external parties and regulatory bodies, ensuring seamless collaboration and efficient use of resources with agencies on a local, state, and federal level. (i.e. Office of the Inspector General, Office of the Attorney General, Office of the State Comptroller, external auditors, and law enforcement).
• Team leadership and development :
• Build and manage the team : Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of auditors and investigators, fostering a culture of professionalism and integrity.
• Manage resources : Plan for and deploy audit and investigation resources effectively to align with the organization's risk profile and priorities.
• Promote ethical conduct : Champion a strong culture of ethics and risk awareness throughout the organization.
• Advocate Continuous Improvement : Support a culture of learning, professionalism, and continuous improvement.

Travel may be required, some of which will be overnight.

A bachelor's degree in business administration, public administration, internal audit, finance, law, or a closely related field AND six years of experience conducting or managing audits, investigations, financial and legal compliance, public safety initiatives, or program reviews. At least two years must have been in an executive or senior leadership role overseeing internal audit functions, risk assessments, investigative processes, legal compliance and governance, or public safety. The ideal candidate will have experience with public sector entities, regulatory bodies, or governmental agencies. Preferred (not required) certifications are Certified Internal Auditor, Certified Fraud Examiner, or Certification in Risk Management Assurance.

This is an Exempt, Management Confidential, position which does not gain tenure. The incumbent of this role will serve at will to the appointing authority.

The NYS Thruway Authority offers an extensive benefits package, including but not limited to paid time off, sick leave incentive, membership to the NYS Retirement System, and 90% tuition assistance. We offer FREE onsite employee parking. Specific work hours can be discussed during the interview process.

ELIGIBILITY FOR EMPLOYMENT : All potential candidates for this position must be legally eligible to work in the United States at the time of appointment and throughout your employment with the New York State Thruway Authority. If appointed, you will be required to produce documents that verify your identity and authorization to work in the United States, as required by the Federal Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, and the Immigration and Nationality Act. The New York State Thruway Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All individuals including women, people of color, LGBTQIA+, people with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. The New York State Thruway Authority provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please contact the Bureau of Accessibility, Equity, Diversity and Employee Engagement at accommodations@thruway.ny.gov or call (518) 471-4321.