The role of an Internal Audit Director is a critical one in any organization, as they are responsible for overseeing the internal audit function and ensuring that the company's risk management, governance, and internal control processes are operating effectively. As such, the salary for an Internal Audit Director can vary widely depending on factors such as the size and type of organization, the industry, the location, and the individual's level of experience and qualifications. In this article, we will delve into the details of Internal Audit Director salaries, exploring the key factors that influence compensation and providing insights into the current market trends.
Key Points
- The average salary for an Internal Audit Director in the United States is around $140,000 per year, according to data from the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA).
- Salaries can range from $100,000 to over $200,000 per year, depending on factors such as the size and type of organization, the industry, and the individual's level of experience and qualifications.
- Internal Audit Directors with certifications such as the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) or the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) can earn higher salaries than those without these certifications.
- The salary for an Internal Audit Director can also be influenced by the company's revenue, with larger companies tend to pay higher salaries than smaller ones.
- Location is also a key factor, with cities such as New York and San Francisco tend to have higher salaries than other parts of the country.
Salary Ranges for Internal Audit Directors

According to data from the IIA, the average salary for an Internal Audit Director in the United States is around 140,000 per year. However, salaries can range from 100,000 to over 200,000 per year, depending on factors such as the size and type of organization, the industry, and the individual's level of experience and qualifications. For example, an Internal Audit Director at a large public company may earn a salary of 180,000 per year, while an Internal Audit Director at a small non-profit organization may earn a salary of $90,000 per year.
Factors Influencing Internal Audit Director Salaries
There are several factors that can influence the salary of an Internal Audit Director, including:
- Size and type of organization: Larger companies tend to pay higher salaries than smaller ones, and public companies tend to pay higher salaries than private companies.
- Industry: Certain industries, such as finance and healthcare, tend to pay higher salaries than others.
- Location: Cities such as New York and San Francisco tend to have higher salaries than other parts of the country.
- Level of experience and qualifications: Internal Audit Directors with more experience and certifications such as the CIA or CISA tend to earn higher salaries than those without these qualifications.
- Company revenue: Companies with higher revenues tend to pay higher salaries than those with lower revenues.
Industry | Average Salary |
---|---|
Finance | $160,000 |
Healthcare | $140,000 |
Manufacturing | $120,000 |
Non-profit | $100,000 |

Certifications and Qualifications

Certifications such as the CIA and CISA can also impact an Internal Audit Director’s salary. According to the IIA, Internal Audit Directors with these certifications tend to earn higher salaries than those without them. For example, an Internal Audit Director with a CIA certification may earn a salary of 150,000 per year, while an Internal Audit Director without this certification may earn a salary of 120,000 per year.
Industry Trends and Outlook
The demand for Internal Audit Directors is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, driven by increasing regulatory requirements and the need for companies to ensure that their risk management and internal control processes are operating effectively. As a result, salaries for Internal Audit Directors are likely to continue to rise, particularly in industries such as finance and healthcare.
What is the average salary for an Internal Audit Director in the United States?
+According to data from the IIA, the average salary for an Internal Audit Director in the United States is around $140,000 per year.
What factors can influence the salary of an Internal Audit Director?
+Factors that can influence the salary of an Internal Audit Director include the size and type of organization, the industry, the location, the level of experience and qualifications, and the company's revenue.
Do certifications such as the CIA and CISA impact an Internal Audit Director's salary?
+Yes, certifications such as the CIA and CISA can impact an Internal Audit Director's salary. According to the IIA, Internal Audit Directors with these certifications tend to earn higher salaries than those without them.
In conclusion, the salary for an Internal Audit Director can vary widely depending on a range of factors, including the size and type of organization, the industry, the location, and the individual’s level of experience and qualifications. As the demand for Internal Audit Directors continues to grow, driven by increasing regulatory requirements and the need for companies to ensure that their risk management and internal control processes are operating effectively, salaries for these professionals are likely to continue to rise. Whether you’re an experienced Internal Audit Director or just starting your career in this field, it’s essential to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in order to maximize your earning potential.