Position SummaryThe Special Advisor for Technology Modernization and Innovation is an enterprise transformation leader and strategic advisor to the Chairman, Chief of Staff and the Board - driving modernization and innovation into how the PCAOB delivers its statutory mission to protect investors. This position is located in the Washington, D.C. headquarters office and reports directly to the Chairman. The Special Advisor will work with the Chief of Staff and Division and Office leaders to design a strategy and implement high impact transformation opportunities that further mobilize cross-division execution; align leaders to a common modernization and innovation narrative; and articulate the art of the possible by translating new and emerging technologies and best-in-class innovation approaches into practical ways that the PCAOB can achieve its mission in the most efficient and effective manner possible.
This role demands a forward-thinking leader who can drive end-to-end execution across policy, programs, process, people and technology; leverage emerging technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Generative AI, and Agentic AI systems to modernize and enhance daily PCAOB operations; and build coalitions across internal stakeholders and external partners to accelerate innovation that directly contributes to furthering the PCAOB's mission of protecting investors.
Responsibilities- Advise the Chairman, Chief of Staff, and Board on modernizing and driving continuous improvement in technology as it relates to inspections, standard setting, registration, enforcement, and all PCAOB support functions in alignment with the Board's strategic plan.
- Monitor market trends, emerging technologies, and industry advancements to inform Division and Office leaders about what is achievable in terms of improvements to their core areas of responsibility.
- Collaborate with Division and Office leaders to identify, develop, and implement modernization and innovation strategies that support short- and long-term business objectives and the accomplishment of the PCAOB's mission in the most efficient manner possible, including leveraging current and advanced technologies such as AI.
- Lead and inspire cross-functional and dedicated teams to foster a culture of innovation, encourage creative problem-solving, and support staff learning and development.
- Partner with Division and Office leaders and liaise with the Office of Technology to plan for short- and long-term modernization and innovation projects.
- Collaborate with executives, divisions and offices, and external stakeholders-including regulators, audit committees, and investors-to integrate innovative practices into PCAOB daily operations and support organizational goals.
- Establish and track performance metrics, measure the impact of innovation initiatives, and communicate findings and recommendations to the Board and leadership.
- Facilitate workshops, training sessions, and interactive engagements to promote creative thinking and continuous improvement across the organization.
- Champion change management, assess competitive risks, and ensure that innovation delivers value to both the organization and its stakeholders.
QualificationsEducation/Technical Expertise
- Bachelor's degree required; MBA or master's degree in accounting, business, public policy, technology, or a related field preferred.
- Active CPA and/or CISA preferred (or other relevant professional credential).
- Minimum 15 years of progressively responsible modernization and innovation experience in audit, public accounting, regulatory oversight, or an equivalent-including significant experience with publicly traded companies.
- Experience with audit inspections and/or partner-level audit leadership; familiarity with PCAOB programs strongly preferred.
- Working knowledge of audit quality and quality control frameworks and the ability to analyze complex quality control systems in a regulatory environment.
- Strong business acumen to cultivate internal and external business connections and effectively lead change management processes related to modernization efforts and technology in a multi-faceted work environment.
- Strong understanding of data and modern analytics, including AI, generative AI, and associated platforms, with demonstrated ability to translate current and emerging technology into practical, mission-aligned improvements to policy, process, and operations.
- Demonstrated executive-level success leading enterprise innovation transformations (e.g., modernization efforts, operating model changes, or organizational restructurings) using disciplined program and change management.
- Strategic, systems-oriented thinker with strong judgment and the ability to operate effectively amid changing risks, stakeholder needs, and external conditions.
- Proven relationship management skills, including the ability to align leaders and harmonize competing priorities across divisions/offices and with external stakeholders (e.g., other regulators, audit committees, investors, and academics).
- Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation skills, including the ability to synthesize complex information, develop actionable recommendations, and present effectively to senior leadership, the Board and external audiences.
- Ability to operate independently and collaboratively in a technologically sophisticated environment.
- High ethical standards, objectivity, and diplomacy.
- Superior attention to detail, time management, and the ability to handle multiple projects with competing deadlines.
- Ability to travel as needed
- Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship, now or at any time in the future.
