GovHRUSA

Newport News, VA (pop. 181,958) seeks a self-directed and highly competent internal audit professional to lead the Internal Audit Department. This position is appointed by and will report to the City Council, which necessitates the ability to function independently and effectively manage employees and operations without supervisory oversight. Candidates should demonstrate an in-depth understanding of local government and will ideally have experience in a municipality of similar size and complexity. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a high level of initiative, professional judgment, and sophistication sufficient to work effectively on behalf of City Council while maintaining respectful relationships with City leadership, partners, and stakeholders. 
 
Situated on a peninsula within the Hampton Roads region, Newport News is the fifth most populous city in Virginia. The city has a strong economic base fueled by military related industries such as shipbuilding and aerospace. There are numerous historic sites and attractions dating back to the Revolutionary War and Civil War along with a variety of arts, culture, and recreation amenities.
 
  • Newport News has a FY2024 total budget of over $1 billion and 3,600 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions across all funds. As an independent city, it is considered a “county equivalent” with the authority of a consolidated city-county government, including allocating the budgets of Newport News Public Schools and constitutional offices such as the Sheriff and Commonwealth’s Attorney. Because of the breadth of services under the City’s purview, the Director must possess expert knowledge of Generally Accepted Government Auditing Standards (GAGAS) and modern internal audit principles and practices and be comfortable navigating operational complexity and political dynamics.
     
  • The Internal Audit Department has a FY2024 budget of $624,000 and five full-time equivalent positions. While the department has historically reported to the City Manager, the City Council recently voted to make the department their direct report in order to exercise greater oversight and facilitate transparency. As a result, the incumbent will be expected to function like an executive director, demonstrating a high degree of accountability, resourcefulness, and management acumen. The City Auditor will receive a four-year appointment in accordance with the Charter.              
     
  • There is strong buy-in on City Council and among City leadership for data-driven improvements, and the next City Auditor will be asked to take an expansive approach to internal auditing, going beyond compliance and financial audits to enable operational efficiency, organizational effectiveness, and innovation throughout city government. Successful candidates will demonstrate excellent written and oral communication skills; the ability to explain complex concepts; and the willingness to coach and develop their employees. They will be proactive and detail-oriented and conduct themselves with the highest integrity. 
 
Qualifications: Requires a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Finance, or related field with coursework 
equivalent to a major concentration in Accounting, and 10 years of progressively responsible experience in municipal auditing, accounting, finance, or a related field with 5-7 years of supervisory experience in municipal auditing or accounting. Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) designation is highly desired. Master’s degree is preferred.

The anticipated hiring range for this position is between $140,000 and $170,000 DOQ. Benefits offered include health, dental, vision, life, and short- and long-term disability insurance; retirement benefits through the Virginia Retirement System (VRS); deferred compensation, discounted fitness center memberships, and moving expenses. Apply by August 22, 2024, with a cover letter, resume, and contact information for five (5) work-related references to the attention of Dele Lowman, Senior Vice President. Tel: (847) 380-3240 ext. 141.

Application Deadline: August 22, 2024 

Posted: 2024-07-22

To apply for this job please visit www.govhrusa.com.