Dear Colleagues,
It is my pleasure to announce the appointment of Chris Pembrook as the new Chief Audit Executive for the University of Oklahoma. With over 20 years of experience in governmental auditing and accounting, Chris’ vital knowledge, leadership skills, and perspective will serve OU as we strategically move toward greater success and impact. The OU Board of Regents approved Chris’ hire earlier this month, and he began his role on Monday.
We are incredibly grateful to Brad Avery for his leadership as Interim Chief Audit Executive and his service as a member of the hiring committee that selected Chris. Brad’s valuable input and assistance in this transition positions us for continued success. He will now return full time to his role as Assistant Vice President and Controller for the OU Health Campus.
In his new position, Chris will lead the internal audit function across the University of Oklahoma system, including the Norman, Tulsa, and Health campuses, Rogers State University, and Cameron University. As a principal advisor to the Board of Regents and executive leadership, he will develop and execute a dynamic, risk-based audit strategy aligned with systemwide goals and each institution’s strategic plan.
Chris holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting, an MBA, and is a certified public accountant, certified government auditing professional, and certified forensic accountant. His experience includes 15 years at Crawford & Associates, an Oklahoma City-based consulting and accounting firm, where he served as a shareholder since 2017. He began his career at Oklahoma’s State Auditor and Inspector’s Office, where he held positions of increasing responsibility over seven years.
Chris’ professional affiliations include the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Oklahoma Society of CPAs. The latter named him a 2016 Trailblazer for his professional commitment, innovation, and community dedication.
Please join me in welcoming Chris to the University of Oklahoma and extending our support to him in his new role.
Live On, University,
Joseph Harroz, Jr.
President
