Role Overview for Chief Audit Executive with a Global Bank – Miami, FL
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained by a premier, globally recognized banking institution to lead the search for a visionary and strategic Chief Audit Executive (CAE). This pivotal executive leadership role, based in the dynamic financial hub of Miami, Florida, represents a unique opportunity to shape the governance, risk, and control landscape of a multi-billion dollar organization with a complex international footprint.
The Chief Audit Executive is a cornerstone of the bank’s corporate governance structure, serving as an independent and objective voice at the highest levels of the organization. Reporting functionally to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors and administratively to the Chief Executive Officer, the CAE is entrusted with the critical mission of providing robust assurance over the bank’s risk management framework, internal controls, and governance processes. This role is not merely about compliance; it is about being a strategic partner who provides forward-looking insights that enhance operational efficiency, safeguard enterprise assets, and drive sustainable value creation.
The successful candidate will lead a global team of dedicated audit professionals, setting the vision and strategy for the Internal Audit function. They will be responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive, risk-based audit plan that addresses the full spectrum of risks facing the bank—including financial, operational, technological, strategic, and regulatory risks. As a key member of the executive leadership team, the CAE will have significant exposure to the Board of Directors and will play an instrumental role in fostering a strong culture of integrity, accountability, and risk awareness throughout the entire organization. This position demands a leader of unimpeachable integrity, profound technical expertise, and exceptional interpersonal skills to navigate the complexities of a global financial institution and its demanding regulatory environment.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Audit Executive with a Global Bank – Miami, FL
Strategic Audit Leadership & Planning
Develop, implement, and continuously refine a dynamic, risk-based annual and long-term internal audit plan that aligns with the bank’s strategic objectives, risk appetite, and the evolving global regulatory landscape. Provide strategic direction and transformative leadership to the global internal audit function, ensuring it is positioned as a valued business partner.
Governance, Risk, and Control (GRC) Assurance
Offer an independent, objective, and enterprise-wide evaluation of the adequacy and effectiveness of the bank’s GRC framework. Proactively identify emerging risks, analyze potential impacts, and provide insightful recommendations to management and the Board to enhance mitigation strategies.
Audit Execution and Quality
Direct and oversee the full lifecycle of audit engagements across all business lines and geographies, including financial, operational, compliance, and information technology audits. Ensure all audit activities are meticulously planned, executed, and documented in strict accordance with the International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) as promulgated by The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA).
Board and Executive Communication
Serve as the primary liaison and trusted advisor to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors. Prepare and present clear, concise, and impactful reports on audit findings, significant risk exposures, control deficiencies, and the status of management’s remedial actions. Foster an environment of transparency and open communication with the Board and senior executive leadership.
Regulatory Relationship Management
Act as the primary point of contact for external auditors and regulatory bodies (e.g., Federal Reserve, OCC, FDIC, and international counterparts) on all audit-related matters. Ensure timely and effective coordination and communication, and oversee the independent validation of management’s remediation of issues raised by regulators.
Team Leadership and Talent Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a diverse, high-performing global team of audit professionals. Cultivate a culture of excellence, intellectual curiosity, professional skepticism, and continuous improvement. Champion talent development initiatives to build a strong pipeline of future leaders within the function.
Innovation and Continuous Improvement
Drive the modernization of the audit function by championing the adoption of advanced audit techniques, including data analytics, robotic process automation (RPA), artificial intelligence (AI), and continuous auditing methodologies, to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and predictive capabilities of the audit process.
Stakeholder Collaboration
Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with senior management, business unit leaders, and heads of other control functions (e.g., Chief Risk Officer, Chief Compliance Officer). Foster a coordinated assurance model to ensure comprehensive risk coverage and avoid duplication of effort.
Requirements for the Chief Audit Executive with a Global Bank – Miami, FL
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field from a top-tier, accredited institution is required. An advanced degree, such as an MBA or Master’s in Accounting, is highly preferred.
Professional Certifications
Must hold a relevant, active professional certification. A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) is strongly required. Additional certifications such as Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), or Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) are highly advantageous.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 20 years of progressive experience in internal audit, public accounting (preferably with a ‘Big 4’ firm), or a combination of risk management and audit roles. Experience must be heavily concentrated within the banking or financial services industry. A minimum of 10 years in a senior audit leadership capacity (e.g., Deputy CAE, Head of Audit for a major global division) within a large, complex, and regulated financial institution is essential.
Board-Level Interaction
Demonstrable and extensive experience presenting to, and advising, an Audit Committee and a Board of Directors is a non-negotiable requirement. Must possess the executive presence and gravitas to be immediately credible at the highest levels.
Regulatory Expertise
Deep, technical expertise in US banking laws, regulations, and supervisory expectations, including comprehensive knowledge of regulations from the Federal Reserve, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). Familiarity with key international regulatory frameworks (e.g., Basel III/IV) is a significant plus.
Leadership and Management Skills
Proven ability to lead and manage a large, geographically dispersed team of professionals. A track record of attracting, retaining, and developing top talent is essential. Must be an inspiring leader who can set a clear vision and motivate a team towards achieving excellence.
Personal Attributes
Unimpeachable ethics, integrity, and objectivity. A strong moral compass and the courage to have difficult conversations are paramount. Possesses a strategic and forward-thinking mindset, superior analytical and critical thinking skills, and a data-driven approach to problem-solving. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and influencing skills are required to effectively engage with a wide array of stakeholders.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent and offers a compensation and benefits package commensurate with the seniority and impact of this role.
Executive Compensation Package
A highly competitive base salary complemented by a significant performance-based annual bonus and a long-term incentive plan (e.g., restricted stock units, performance shares) designed to reward strategic contributions and long-term value creation.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premier, low-cost medical, dental, and vision plans for you and your eligible dependents. Access to executive physical programs, confidential mental health resources, and wellness coaching to support your overall well-being.
Robust Retirement & Financial Planning
An industry-leading 401(k) plan with a substantial company match and potential profit-sharing components. Access to personalized financial planning services and deferred compensation programs to help you achieve your long-term financial goals.
Generous Time Off
An executive-level paid time off (PTO) policy, in addition to company-paid holidays and flexible leave options. Comprehensive parental and family leave policies that support your needs outside of work.
Professional Growth & Development
A dedicated budget for executive coaching, continuing professional education (CPE), attendance at premier industry conferences, and memberships in professional organizations.
Relocation Support
A comprehensive, white-glove relocation package is available for the selected candidate and their family, ensuring a seamless and supportive transition to the vibrant city of Miami.
Executive Perquisites
The package may include additional benefits such as a monthly car allowance, social or professional club memberships, and other amenities befitting a senior executive role.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is proud to be the exclusive search partner for this critical leadership appointment. We are seeking a world-class audit leader to join this exceptional organization. Due to the confidential nature of this search, interested and qualified candidates are encouraged to submit their resume and a detailed cover letter outlining their suitability for the role.
To express your interest in this confidential search, please submit your application materials directly to our team. For more information about our deep expertise in placing top financial leaders, please visit our Financial Services Executive Search practice page.
All inquiries and applications will be handled with the utmost discretion and confidentiality. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
