Office of the Chief Operating Officer
Internal Audit
The mission of Internal Audit is to provide independent, objective assurance and consulting services design to add value and improve university operations. Internal Audit helps the university accomplish its objectives by bringing a systematic, disciplined approach to evaluate and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of risk management, control and governance processes.
Director of Internal Audit
Ethan Bickford
Ethan Bickford has recently joined Tulane as the Director of Internal Audit. He is a seasoned audit and risk management professional with extensive experience in leading internal audit functions and providing strategic advisory services across various industries, including higher education.
In his previous role at RSM, Ethan led complex, enterprise-wide audit engagements, specializing in developing and executing risk-based audit plans and strategic risk management approaches. His expertise in managing large-scale projects and coordinating cross-functional teams of internal audit practitioners and subject matter experts has been instrumental in delivering meaningful insights to executive leadership and audit committees.
Ethan's professional journey includes a strong focus on improving internal audit methodologies and practices through thought leadership and the facilitation of large-scale training programs. He has consistently delivered transformational results by enhancing internal audit functions through the integration of data analytics and strategic risk management approaches.
Ethan holds a B.S. in Accounting and a B.S. in Finance from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. He is a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA). His professional affiliations include membership in the Institute of Internal Auditors and active participation in the Virginia Tech Accounting & Information Systems Emerging Leaders Board.
Ethan is committed to fostering a culture of ethics and compliance at Tulane University, while striving to integrate the internal audit function as a key driver of continuous improvement and operational excellence. By empowering teams and collaborating across functions, Ethan aims to enhance efficiency and strategic risk management throughout the university.
