Melissa Phoenix

· Works with the leadership Team to develop the annual Audit Plan for the Internal Audit Department

· Develops and manages IT audits to assess the effectiveness of controls, and mitigation of risk by overseeing the audit fieldwork to identify deficiencies in controls, duplication of effort, extravagance, fraud or lack of compliance with laws, government regulation and management policies or procedures. Contributing partner on operational compliance audits.

· Identifies areas for growth within the audit process and procedures.

· Reviews new or revised internal control procedures for audit impact and system vulnerabilities

· Plans and coordinates the testing of electronic gaming equipment, software and associated components utilized in the operation of Electronic Gaming Devices and Table Games; works cooperatively with the OIG Department and independent testing laboratory.

· Trains, directs and supervises staff; conducts performance appraisals and ensures performance standards are met. Develops plans for staff improvement and professional growth.

· Works with the Leadership Team to develop new and revised regulations

· Creates and submits correspondence according to Commission policy, including audit reports, memorandums, summaries of internal control standard reviews, and data analytics

· Acts upon findings and observations noted in the audit reports, advises IAD management of problem areas in a timely manner while suggesting possible remedies

· Creates Class II audit reports which are supplied to external auditors. Completes required NIGC MICS checklists relating to annual IT audits.

· Documents policies and procedures for the Inspectors and Auditors

· Works with Leadership Team to creates an annual report for senior management summarizing the events of the fiscal year.

• Coordinated with cross-functional teams to resolve project issues and mitigate risks.
• Developed high-level knowledge of client business goals, policies and procedures to establish foundation for targeted problem solutions.
• Monitored project performance to identify areas of improvement and make adjustments.
• Planned, designed, and scheduled phases for large projects.
• Provided detailed project status updates to stakeholders and executive management.
• Worked 1:1 with all levels of management to identify operational needs, propose efficient solutions, implement and deploy system enhancements while still ensuring regulatory compliance.

• Managed the completion and accuracy of thirteen revenue audits daily. Managed a staff of 9 auditors.
• Conducted strategic and technical reviews to verify compliance with standard operating procedures
• Analyzed accounting systems and associated transactional data for accuracy, efficiency and effectiveness.
• Trained and mentored department staff on policies and procedures to establish strong foundation for accurate revenue recording
• Developed high-level knowledge of client business goals, policies and procedures to establish foundation for targeted problem solutions.

Positions held include:

Cage Cashier

Revenue Auditor

Staff Accountant

Quality Assurance Specialist

OINGC Audit Analyst