The Internal Audit Department is an important part of UNC Charlotte’s operations and management team.
“Internal Audit bridges the gap between management and the Board of Trustees; assesses the ethical climate of the University as well as the efficiency and effectiveness of operations; and acts as a safety net to identify noncompliance with rules, regulations, policies and best practices,” said Julie Earls, an internal auditor for the University. “We believe it is preferable for Internal Audit to identify an issue and provide guidance to help correct the issue rather than an outside entity such as a regulator or media outlet learn of the issue first.”
Internal Audit also is part of a strong governance process at the University. Governance encompasses policies and processes used by an organization to direct and control its activities, achieve its objectives and protect the interests of stakeholders in an ethical manner.
Through assessments that provide assurance that processes are properly designed and operating effectively and by providing advice on potential improvements on governance structures and processes, the Internal Audit Department works to strengthen campus governance.
“Good governance, risk management and internal controls are essential to successful University operations,” Earls noted.
UNC Charlotte management is responsible for establishing and maintaining internal controls to mitigate risks that may impact the University’s ability to accomplish objectives. Internal Audit is responsible for providing objective assurance about the design and operating effectiveness of the internal controls.
“Internal Audit has a unique perspective and in-depth knowledge that other auditors or regulators do not have,” said Earls. “This is why Internal Audit provides valuable support and insight to the University.”
Learn more about the Internal Audit Department online; May is International Internal Audit Awareness Month.