Goal #1:
Establish a dynamic audit planning process.
Strategies:
- Complete a University-wide risk assessment in order to develop a risk-based audit plan.
- Maintain on-going communication with the President and executive management.
- Consult with various institutional stakeholders and our external auditors.
- Maintain an audit presence in every college and major administrative area annually.
- Survey and conduct research aimed at delivering constructive and beneficial results.
Goal #2:
Assess and mitigate financial, operating and business risks.
Strategies:
- Perform audits of departmental and research activities and evaluate business systems and processes for adequacy.
- Review and appraise the soundness of operating controls and promote effective internal controls at reasonable cost.
- Determine compliance with applicable regulatory or contractual requirements.
- Recommend operating improvements and assure that operations are in line with organizational goals.
- Assess the reliability of management information utilized in decision-making processes.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of existing policies or assist in the formulation of policies, when necessary.
- Assure that University assets are properly recorded and adequately safeguarded against loss.
- Identify opportunities for cost savings and make recommendations for improved cost efficiencies.
Goal #3:
Increase appreciation for good and effective management practices. Also increase awareness of the Internal Audit function throughout the University.
Strategies:
- Create an Internal Audit Department website that would inform and guide.
- Use periodic broadcasts about internal controls in the form of an Internal Audit Alert flyer to raise the level of awareness of staff and faculty.
- Inform staff and faculty about the consulting functions the department can perform.
Goal #4:
Create an effective work environment in the Internal Audit Department and maintain a high level of competent staff.
Strategies:
- Develop a procedures manual to guide internal audit staff in the completion of audit assignments.
- Enhance the audit process by standardizing procedures as well as using automated tools such a
- Audit Command Language (ACL) and the Association of College and University Auditors’ resource library (ACUA-L) to minimize labor-intensive aspects of the audit.
- Provide relevant and timely training for staff and emphasize continuing education development to enhance professional and personal growth.
- Mentor and coach staff in handling difficult situations.
- Provide internship opportunities for Junior- and Senior-Class students at the University.
- Maintain expectation for professional staff to acquire certifications such as the CIA, CPA, CISA, and CFE.
- Maintain good communication through an open door policy and information sharing at routine staff meetings.
Goal #5:
Establish performance expectations, and provide feedback and recognition based on annual objectives and strategies.
Strategies:
- Set annual goals and strategies, including key performance indicators, training and development plans, milestones, actions and resource requirements.
- Ensure progress reviews on a regular and timely basis identifying goals, effectiveness and areas for improvement.
- Recognize and reward effective team and individual performance and results on a continuous basis.