<p>Objectives of this Role The Director of Audit leads and manages the Bank's Audit function, overseeing a comprehensive, risk-based audit program that evaluates the effectiveness of internal controls, operational processes, financial reporting accuracy, and compliance with banking regulations and laws. This position ensures all audits are performed in alignment with the IIA's International Standards for the Professional Practice of Auditing and supports the Bank's governance structure by providing accurate, objective, and timely audit reporting.</p> <p>As a key leader in a $3B community bank, the Director serves as a trusted advisor to the CFO, executive leadership, and the Audit Committee, offering independent insight and recommendations that strengthen the control environment, support operational efficiency, and reduce organizational risk.</p> <p>Essential Functions:</p> <p>Lead and Manage the Audit Function</p> <p>Direct the strategic planning, operations, and overall performance of the Audit department. Develop departmental goals, processes, and staffing models to ensure adequate coverage of the Bank's operations and regulatory expectations. Recruit, train, coach, and evaluate audit staff; ensure the team maintains a high level of professional competency. Manage the department budget and resources. Maintain appropriate independence and objectivity of the audit function while reporting administratively to the CFO.</p> <p>Oversee End-to-End Audit Execution</p> <p>Lead and review the planning, execution, and reporting of operational, financial, branch, IT, and compliance audits. Ensure all workpapers and reports meet IIA Standards, GAAS, and internal quality expectations. Analyze audit findings to identify control gaps, inefficiencies, or compliance weaknesses. Provide clear, practical recommendations that enhance internal control structures and operational effectiveness. Present audit results and risk insights to senior leadership and the Audit Committee. Track and validate management's corrective action plans to ensure timely remediation.</p> <p>Perform Risk Assessment & Develop the Annual Audit Plan</p> <p>Lead the Bank's audit risk assessment process, considering emerging risks, regulatory changes, and strategic priorities. Develop and maintain a dynamic, risk-based annual audit plan for Audit Committee approval. Update the plan as needed based on shifts in risk, business growth, or regulatory expectations.</p> <p>Support and Partner with the Audit Committee</p> <p>Serve as primary liaison between the Audit function and the Audit Committee. Prepare and present quarterly Audit Committee packages, including audit activity updates, issue tracking, audit reports, and staffing updates. Present the annual audit plan and audit charter for approval. Share relevant regulatory insights, industry trends, and emerging risks impacting the Bank.</p> <p>Regulatory, Examiner & External Auditor Coordination</p> <p>Coordinate with federal and state regulators (FDIC, FRB, Missouri Division of Finance) during examinations. Serve as the internal point of contact for external auditors, including support for financial statement audits and internal control assessments. Oversee responses to exam and audit requests, ensuring accuracy and completeness. Maintain strong awareness of regulatory expectations for banks of comparable asset size and complexity.</p> <p>Training & Continuous Professional Development</p> <p>Maintain professional certifications and remain current on banking regulations, audit standards, and emerging risk areas. Ensure Audit staff receive ongoing development to maintain technical proficiency and effectiveness. Promote a culture of continuous improvement, integrity, and strong internal controls.</p> <p>Other Duties Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities are as required and may change at any time with or without notice.</p> <p>Competencies</p> <p>Customer Centric Focus Diversity and Inclusion Act with Integrity Collaboration and Teamwork Results Oriented/Execution Business Acumen</p> <p>Leadership Competencies</p> <p>Building Effective Teams Empowerment Create Vision and Alignment Reward and Recognize Employees</p> <p>Skills and Qualifications</p> <p>Education & Experience</p> <p>Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field required; Master's degree preferred. Minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in banking, audit, or regulatory roles. Experience supervising or leading an audit function preferred. Active Certified Public Accountant (CPA) required; CIA, CISA, or similar certifications are a plus.</p> <p>Technical & Professional Skills</p> <p>Strong understanding of banking operations, products, regulations, and risk. Deep knowledge of IIA Standards, GAAS, GAAP, COSO, and internal control frameworks. Strong analytical skills and financial acumen. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to maintain independence, objectivity, and confidentiality. Strong ability to work with executive leadership, regulators, and the Audit Committee.</p> <p>Physical Demands</p> <p>The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.</p> <p>Hybrid/remote-friendly role, with flexibility. Ability to prepare and deliver presentations to internal and external audiences. Ability to read, interpret, and analyze financial, operational, and regulatory information.</p>